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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 25, 2021

 

Registration No. 333-259197

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM S-1/A

 Amendment No. 1

 

REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   3510   82-4270040
(State or jurisdiction of   (Primary Standard Industrial   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Classification Code Number)   Identification Number)

 

3000 NW 109th Avenue

Miami, Florida 33172

(305) 836-6858

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

 

Silvia Alana

Chief Financial Officer

Blue Star Foods Corp.

3000 NW 109th Avenue

Miami, Florida 33172

(305) 836-6858

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

 

Copies to:

 

Mark Crone, Esq.

Liang Shih, Esq.

The Crone Law Group, P.C.

500 Fifth Avenue, Suite 938

New York, New York 10110

mcrone@cronelawgroup.com

lshih@cronelawgroup.com

Telephone: 646-861-7891

 

Joel D. Mayersohn, Esq.

Dickinson Wright PLLC

350 East Las Olas Boulevard, Suite 1759

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

jmayersohn@dickinsonwright.com

Telephone: 954-991-5426

 

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after this registration statement becomes effective.

 

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, a 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. (Check one):

 

  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, $0.0001 par value per share   $ 4,600,000     $ 501.86  
Underwriter’s warrants to purchase common stock(3)            
Common stock issuable upon exercise of Underwriter’s warrants(4)   $ 322,000     $ 35.13  
Total   $ 4,922,000     $ 536.99(5)  

 

(1) Includes shares of common stock that the underwriters have the option to purchase.
(2) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee in accordance with Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
(3)

In accordance with Rule 457(g) under the Securities Act, because the shares of the Registrant’s common stock underlying the Underwriter’s warrants are registered hereby, no separate registration fee is required with respect to the warrants.

(4) Represents common stock issuable upon exercise of warrants issuable to the Underwriters to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 7.0% of the aggregate number of shares of common stock issued and sold by the Company in this offering.
(5)

Previously paid.

 

The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, or until this Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED

 

PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED OCTOBER 25, 2021

 

PROSPECTUS

 

 

 

BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.

 

800,000 shares of common stock

 

We are offering 800,000 shares of our common stock, par value $0.0001 per share.

 

It is currently estimated that the public offering price will be $5.00 per share. The final public offering price will be determined through negotiation between us and the underwriters in the offering and will take into account the recent market price of our common stock, the general condition of the securities market at the time of the offering, the history of, and the prospects for, the industry in which we compete, and our past and present operations and our prospects for future revenues. The assumed public offering price used throughout this prospectus may not be indicative of the actual offering price. See the section of this prospectus entitled “Summary of the Offering” for a description of the transaction.

 

There is currently a limited public trading market for our common stock. Our common stock has been quoted on the OTC pink sheets under the symbol “BSFC” since February 18, 2020.

 

We have applied to have our common stock listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the proposed symbol “BSFC.” No assurance can be given that our application will be approved or, if we receive approval, that a trading market will develop, if developed, that it will be sustained or that the trading prices of our common stock on the OTC Pink marketplace will be indicative of the prices of our common stock if our common stock were traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market. We cannot assure you that our common stock will become eligible for trading on any exchange or market.

 

Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making any investment decision, you should carefully review and consider all the information in this prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein, including the risks and uncertainties described under “Risk Factors” beginning on page 3.

 

    Per Share     Total      
Public offering price   $              $                  
Underwriting discounts and commissions(1)   $     $  
Proceeds to us, before expenses   $     $  

 

 

(1) See the section titled “Underwriting” for a description of the compensation payable to the underwriters.

 

We have granted to the underwriters the option for a period of 45 days to purchase up to an additional 120,000 shares of common stock from us on the same terms as set forth above.

 

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.

 

We may amend or supplement this prospectus from time to time by filing amendments or supplements as required. You should read the entire prospectus and any amendments or supplements carefully before you make your investment decision.

 

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (“JOBS Act”).

 

The underwriters expect to deliver the shares of common stock to purchasers on ___________, 2021.

 

Newbridge Securities Corporation

Revere Securities LLC

Co-Lead Bookrunning Manager

Co-Lead Bookrunning Manager

 

 

 

The date of this prospectus is _________, 2021.

 

 
 

 

  

 

 

 

 

BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
Prospectus Summary 1
Risk Factors 3
Use of Proceeds 23
Description of Securities 24
Description of Business 28
Description of Property 36
Legal Proceedings 36
Capitalization 37
Dilution 37
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 38
Market Price for Our Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 50
Management – Directors and Executive Officers 51
Executive Compensation 55
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 61
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Corporate Governance 62

Additional Information

64
Underwriting 65
Legal Matters 75
Experts 75
Financial Statements F-1

 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus or a supplement to this prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to provide you with different information. This prospectus is not an offer to sell securities, and it is not soliciting an offer to buy securities, in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should not assume that the information contained in this prospectus or any supplement to this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front cover of those documents.

 

ii

 

 

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus contains “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements reflect the current view about future events. When used in this prospectus, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements contained in this prospectus relating to our business strategy, our future operating results and liquidity and capital resources outlook. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees of assurance of future performance. We caution you therefore against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation, a continued decline in general economic conditions nationally and internationally; decreased demand for our products and services; market acceptance of our products and services; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights; the impact of any infringement actions or other litigation brought against us; competition from other providers and products; our ability to develop and commercialize new and improved products and services; our ability to raise capital to fund continuing operations; changes in government regulation; our ability to complete customer transactions and capital raising transactions; and other factors (including the risks contained in the section of this prospectus entitled “Risk Factors”) relating to our industry, our operations and results of operations and any businesses that may be acquired by us. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ significantly from those anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended or planned.

 

Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Except as required by applicable law we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.

 

iii

 

 

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary only highlights the more detailed information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. As this is a summary, it does not contain all of the information that you should consider in making an investment decision. You should read this entire prospectus carefully, including the information under “Risk Factors” and our financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus, before investing.

 

In this prospectus, “Blue Star,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Blue Star Foods Corp.

 

Overview

 

We are an international sustainable marine protein company that owns and operates several portfolio companies with an emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) values. We seek to create a vertically integrated seafood company that offers customers high quality products while maintaining a focus on our core values of delivering food safety, traceability and certified resource sustainability. Our companies include:

 

Blue Star Foods Corp., which imports, packages and sells refrigerated pasteurized crab meat sourced primarily from Southeast Asia and other premium seafood products;

 

Coastal Pride Company, Inc. (“Coastal Pride”), which imports pasteurized and fresh crab meat sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crab meat throughout North America; and

 

Taste of BC Aquafarms, Inc. (“TOBC”), a family-owned and operated, land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (“RAS”) salmon farming operation, which sells its steelhead salmon to distributors in Canada.

 

Our executive offices are located at 3000 NW 109th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33172 and our telephone number is (305) 836-6858.

 

 

1
 

 

 

SUMMARY OF THE OFFERING

 

The following is a summary of the shares being offered:

 

Common stock offered   800,000 shares (or 920,000 shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full)
     
Common stock outstanding after the offering   24,137,541 shares (or 24,257,541 shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full)

 

Use of proceeds  

We estimate that the net proceeds to us from this offering will be approximately $3,545,000, or approximately $4,103,000 if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full, assuming a public offering price of $5.00 per share, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. Each $1 increase (decrease) in the public offering price per share would increase (decrease) our net proceeds, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, by approximately $744,000 (assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares).

 

We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, including working capital, operating expenses, and capital expenditures. See “Use of Proceeds.”

     

Underwriters’ option

 

  We have granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase a maximum of 120,000 additional shares of our common stock from us at the public offering price, less the underwriting discounts and commissions.
     
Risk factors   You should carefully read “Risk Factors” in this prospectus for a discussion of factors that you should consider before deciding to invest in our common stock.

 

The number of shares of our common stock that will be outstanding immediately after this offering is based on 23,337,541 shares of common stock outstanding as of October 25, 2021 and excludes an aggregate of 6,062,417 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants.

 

 

2
 

 

RISK FACTORS

 

You should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below, together with all of the other information in this prospectus. If any of the following risks are realized, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be materially and adversely affected the value of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment. The risks described below are not the only risks facing the Company. Risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and/or prospects.

 

Risks Relating to Our Company and Business

 

Future acquisitions may have an adverse effect on our ability to manage our business.

 

Selective acquisitions currently form part of our strategy to further expand our business. If we are presented with appropriate opportunities, we may acquire additional businesses, services or products that are complementary to our core business. Future acquisitions and the subsequent integration of new companies into ours would require significant attention from our management. Future acquisitions would also expose us to potential risks, including risks associated with the assimilation of new operations, services and personnel, unforeseen or hidden liabilities, the diversion of resources from our existing businesses and technologies, the inability to generate sufficient revenue to offset the costs and expenses of acquisitions and potential loss of, or harm to, relationships with employees as a result of integration of new businesses. The diversion of our management’s attention and any difficulties encountered in any integration process could have a material adverse effect on our ability to manage our business.

 

3
 

 

The value of crab meat is subject to fluctuation which may result in volatility of our results of operations and the value of an investment in the Company.

 

Our business is dependent upon the sale of a commodity which value is subject to fluctuation and which value greatly fluctuates. Our net sales and operating results vary significantly due to the volatility of the value of the crab meat that we sell which may result in the volatility of the market price of our common stock.

 

A material decline in the population and biomass of crab meat that we sell in the fisheries from which we obtain our crab meat would materially and adversely affect our business.

 

The population and biomass of crab meat are subject to natural fluctuations which are beyond our control and which may be exacerbated by disease, reproductive problems or other biological issues and may be affected by changes in weather and global environmental changes. The overall health of a crab or other fish is difficult to measure, and fisheries management is still a relatively inexact science. Since we are unable to predict the timing and extent of fluctuations in the population and biomass of our products, we are unable to engage in any measures that might alleviate the adverse effects of these fluctuations. Any such fluctuation which results in a material decline in the population and biomass in the fisheries from which we obtain our crab meat would materially and adversely affect our business. Our operations are also subject to the risk of variations in supply.

 

We are subject to the risk of product contamination and product liability claims.

 

The sales of our products may involve the risk of injury to consumers. Such injuries may result from tampering by unauthorized personnel, product contamination or spoilage, including the presence of foreign objects, substances, chemicals, or residues introduced during the packing, storage, handling or transportation phases. While we are subject to governmental inspection and regulations and believe our facilities comply in all material respects with all applicable laws and regulations, including internal product safety policies, we cannot be sure that consumption of our products will not cause a health-related illness in the future or that we will not be subject to claims or lawsuits relating to such matters. Even if a product liability claim is unsuccessful, the negative publicity surrounding any assertion that our products caused illness or injury could adversely affect our reputation with existing and potential customers and our brand image.

 

A significant portion of our revenues are derived from a single product, crab meat, and therefore we are highly susceptible to changes in market demand, which may be affected by factors over which we have limited or no control.

 

A significant portion of our revenues are derived from a single product, crab meat. We therefore are highly susceptible to changes in market demand, which may be impacted by factors over which we have limited or no control. Factors that could lead to a decline in market demand for crab meat include economic conditions and evolving consumer preferences. A substantial downturn in market demand for crab meat may have a material adverse effect on our business and on our results of operations.

 

Risks Related to Our Industry and TOBC’s Recirculating Aquaculture Systems Operations

 

Regulation of the fishing industry may have an adverse impact on our business.

 

The international community has been aware of and concerned with the worldwide problem of depletion of natural fish stocks. In the past, these concerns have resulted in the imposition of quotas that subject individual countries to strict limitations on the amount of seafood that is allowed to be caught or harvested. Environmental groups have been lobbying for additional limitations. If international organizations or national governments were to impose additional limitations on crab meat or the seafood products we sell, this could have a negative impact on our results of operations.

 

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Segments of the seafood industry in which we operate are competitive, and our inability to compete successfully could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

We compete with major integrated seafood companies such as Tri Union Frozen Products, Inc. (Chicken of the Sea Frozen Foods), Phillips Foods, Inc., Harbor Seafood, Inc. and Twin Tails Seafood Corp. Some of our competitors have the benefit of marketing their products under brand names that have better market recognition than ours or have stronger marketing and distribution channels than we do. Increased competition as to any of our products could result in price reduction, reduced margins and loss of market share, which could negatively affect our profitability. An increase in imported products in the U.S. at low prices could also negatively affect our profitability.

 

Our insurance coverage may be inadequate to cover losses we may incur or to fully replace a significant loss of assets.

 

Our involvement in the fishing industry may result in liability for pollution, property damage, personal injury or other hazards. Although we believe we have obtained insurance in accordance with industry standards to address such risks, such insurance has limitations on liability and/or deductible amounts that may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of such liabilities or losses. In addition, such risks may not, in all circumstances, be insurable or, in certain circumstances, we may choose not to obtain insurance to protect against specific risks due to the high premiums associated with such insurance or for other reasons. The payment of such uninsured liabilities would reduce the funds available to us. If we suffer a significant event or occurrence that is not fully insured, or if the insurer of such event is not solvent, we could be required to divert funds from capital investment or other uses towards covering any liability or loss for such events.

 

Our operations, revenue and profitability could be adversely affected by changes in laws and regulations in the countries where we do business.

 

The governments of countries into which we sell our products, from time to time, consider regulatory proposals relating to raw materials, food safety and markets, and environmental regulations, which, if adopted, could lead to disruptions in distribution of our products and increase our operational costs, which, in turn, could affect our profitability. To the extent that we increase our product prices as a result of such changes, our sales volume and revenues may be adversely affected.

 

Furthermore, these governments may change import regulations or impose additional taxes or duties on certain imports from time to time. These regulations and fees or new regulatory developments may have a material adverse impact on our operations, revenue and profitability. If one or more of the countries into which we sell our products bars the import or sale of crab meat or related products, our available market would shrink significantly, adversely impacting our results of operations and growth potential.

 

A decline in discretionary consumer spending may adversely affect our industry, our operations and ultimately our profitability.

 

Luxury products, such as premium grade crab meat, are discretionary purchases for consumers. Any reduction in consumer discretionary spending or disposable income may affect the crab meat industry significantly. Many economic factors outside of our control could affect consumer discretionary spending, including the financial markets, consumer credit availability, prevailing interest rates, energy costs, employment levels, salary levels, and tax rates. Any reduction in discretionary consumer spending could materially adversely affect our business and financial condition.

 

Our business is affected by the quality and quantity of the salmon that is harvested by TOBC.

 

We sell our products in a highly competitive market. The ability of TOBC to successfully sell its salmon and the price therefor, is highly dependent on the quality of the salmon. A number of factors can negatively affect the quality of the salmon sold, including the quality of the broodstock, water conditions in the farm, the food and additives consumed by the fish, population levels in the tanks, and the amount of time that it takes to bring a fish to harvest, including transportation and processing. Optimal growing conditions cannot always be assured. Although fish grown in RAS production systems are not subject to the disease and parasite issues that can affect salmon grown in ocean pens, there is the potential for organisms that are ubiquitous to freshwater environments to become pathogenic if the fish are subjected to stressful conditions or there is an issue with biomass management.

 

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High standards for the quality of the product are maintained and if we determine that a harvest has not met such standards, we may be required to reduce inventory and write down the value of the harvest to reflect net realizable value. Sub-optimal conditions could lead to smaller harvests and or lower quality fish. Conversely, if we experience better than expected growth rates, we may not be able to process and bring our fish to market in a timely manner, which may result in overcrowding that can cause negative health impacts and/or require culling our fish population.

 

Furthermore, if our salmon is perceived by the market to be of lower quality than other available sources of salmon or other fish, we may experience reduced demand for our product and may not be able to sell our products at the prices that we expect or at all.

 

As we continue to expand our operations and build new farms, we potentially may face additional challenges with maintaining the quality of our products. We cannot guarantee that we will not face quality issues in the future, any of which could cause damage to our reputation, and a loss of consumer confidence in our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business results and the value of our brands.

 

A shutdown, damage to any of our farms, or lack of availability of power, fuel, oxygen, eggs, water, or other key components needed for our operations, could result in our prematurely harvesting fish, a loss of a material percentage of our fish in production, a delay in our commercialization plans, and a material adverse effect on our operations, business results, reputation, and the value of our brands.

 

An interruption in the power, fuel, oxygen supply, water quality systems, or other critical infrastructure of an aquaculture facility for more than a short period of time could lead to the loss of a large number of fish. A shutdown of or damage to our farm due to natural disaster, shortages of key components to our operations due to a pandemic, reduction in water supply, contamination of our aquifers, interruption in services, or human interference could require us to prematurely harvest some or all of the fish or could result in a loss of our fish in production.

 

We also are dependent on egg availability If we had a disruption in our ability to purchase eggs we would not be able to continue to stock our farm. We cannot guarantee that any disruptions might not occur in the future, any of which could cause loss of salmon to sell, damage to our reputation, loss of consumer confidence in our products and company, and lost revenues, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business results.

 

The successful development of our TOBC subsidiary depends on its ability to efficiently and cost-effectively produce and sell salmon at large commercial scale.

 

Our business plans depend on our ability to increase our production capacity through the development of larger farms. We have limited experience constructing, ramping up, and managing such large, commercial-scale facilities, and we may not have anticipated all of the factors or costs that could affect our production, harvest, sale, and delivery of salmon at such a scale. Our salmon may not perform as expected when raised at very large commercial scale, we may encounter operational challenges, control deficiencies may surface, our vendors may experience capacity constraints, or our production cost and timeline projections may prove to be inaccurate. Any of these could decrease process efficiency, create delays, and increase our costs. We are also subject to volatility in market demand and prices, such as the disruption to the salmon market and the resulting reduction in market prices for salmon caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

In addition, competitive pressures, customer volatility and the possible inability to secure established and ongoing customer partnerships and contracts, may result in a lack of buyers for our fish. Customers of our fish may not wish to follow our terms and conditions of sale, potentially resulting in a violation of labeling or disclosure laws, improper food handling, nonpayment for product, and similar issues. The competitive landscape for salmon may create challenges in securing competitive pricing for our salmon to reach our competitive goals. In addition, it is possible that we may not be able to service our customers to meet their expectations regarding fish quality, ongoing harvest supply availability, order processing fill rate, on time or correct deliveries, potential issues with third party processors, and other factors, which could impact our relationships with customers, our reputation, and our business results.

 

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Risks Related to Our Reliance on Third Parties

 

We are dependent on third parties for our operations.

 

Our business is dependent upon our relationships with vendors in Southeast Asia for co-packing, processing and shipping product to us. If for any reason these companies became unable or unwilling to continue to provide services to us, this would likely lead to a temporary interruption in our ability to import our products until we found another entity that could provide these services. Failure to find a suitable replacement, even on a temporary basis, would have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

We do not have long-term agreements with many of our customers and suppliers.

 

Many of our customers and suppliers operate through purchase orders. Though we have long-term business relationships with many of our customers and suppliers and alternative sources of supply for key items, we do not have long-term agreements with such customers and suppliers and cannot be sure that any of these customers or suppliers will continue to do business with us on the same basis or on terms that are favorable to us. The termination or modification of any of these relationships may adversely affect our business, financial performance and results of operations.

 

Risks Related to Our Financial Condition and Capital Requirements

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm has included an explanatory paragraph relating to our ability to continue as a going concern in its report on our audited financial statements.

 

The report from our independent registered public accounting firm for the year ended December 31, 2020 includes an explanatory paragraph stating that the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has a net capital deficiency that raises substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent on its ability to increase revenues, execute on its business plan to acquire complimentary companies, raise capital and continue to sustain adequate working capital to finance its operations. If we are unable to do so, our financial condition and results of operations will be materially and adversely affected and we may be unable to continue as a going concern.

 

Our loan and security agreement with Lighthouse Financial Corp. (“Lighthouse”) contains operating and financial covenants that may restrict business and financing activities of our subsidiaries, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride.

 

Borrowings under our loan and security agreement with Lighthouse are secured by substantially all of our personal property, including our intellectual property. Our loan and security agreement contains affirmative and negative covenants which restricts our wholly-owned subsidiary, Keeler & Co. and its subsidiary, Coastal Pride’s ability to, among other things

 

  dispose of or sell its assets;
     
  make material changes in its business;
     
  merge with or acquire other entities or assets;
     
  incur additional indebtedness;
     
  create liens on its assets;
     
  pay dividends; and
     
  make investments.

 

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The operating and financial restrictions and covenants in our loan and security agreement, as well as any future financing agreements into which we may enter, may restrict the ability to finance operations and engage in, expand or otherwise pursue business activities and strategies. Our ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control, and future breaches of any of these covenants could result in a default under our loan and security agreement. If not waived, future defaults could cause all of the outstanding indebtedness under our loan and security agreement to become immediately due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit.

 

If we do not have or are unable to generate sufficient cash available to repay our debt obligations when they become due and payable, either upon maturity or in the event of a default, we may not be able to obtain additional debt or equity financing on favorable terms, if at all, which may negatively impact our ability to operate and continue our business as a going concern.

 

We face risks related to the current global economic environment, which could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The state of the global economy continues to be uncertain. The current global economic conditions and uncertain credit markets, concerns regarding the availability of credit pose a risk that could impact our international relationships, as well as our ability to manage normal commercial relationships with our customers, suppliers and creditors, including financial institutions. Global trade issues and the impositions of tariffs could also have an adverse effect on our international business activities. If the current global economic environment deteriorates, our business could be negatively affected.

 

We may need to raise additional capital to fund our existing commercial operations and develop and commercialize new products and expand our operations.

 

Based on our current business plan, we believe the net proceeds from the Offering, together with our current cash and cash equivalents and cash receipts from sales will enable us to conduct our planned operations for at least the next 12 months. If our available cash balances, net proceeds from the Offering and anticipated cash flow from operations are insufficient to satisfy our liquidity requirements including because of lower demand for our products or due to other risks described herein, we may seek to sell common stock or preferred stock or convertible debt securities, enter into an additional credit facility or another form of third-party funding or seek other debt financing.

 

We may consider raising additional capital in the future to expand our business, to pursue strategic investments, to take advantage of financing opportunities or for other reasons, including to:

 

  increase our sales and marketing efforts and address competitive developments;
     
  provide for supply and inventory costs;
     
  fund development and marketing efforts of any future products or additional features to then-current products;
     
  acquire, license or invest in new technologies;
     
  acquire or invest in complementary businesses or assets; and
     
  finance capital expenditures and general and administrative expenses.

 

Our present and future funding requirements will depend on many factors, including:

 

  our ability to achieve revenue growth and improve gross margins;
     
  the cost of expanding our operations and offerings, including our sales and marketing efforts;

 

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  the effect of competing market developments; and
     
  costs related to international expansion.

 

The various ways we could raise additional capital carry potential risks. If we raise funds by issuing equity securities, dilution to our stockholders could result. Any equity securities issued also could provide for rights, preferences or privileges senior to those of holders of our common stock. If we raise funds by issuing debt securities, those debt securities would have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of holders of our common stock. The terms of debt securities issued or borrowings pursuant to a credit agreement could impose significant restrictions on our operations. If we raise funds through collaborations and licensing arrangements, we might be required to relinquish significant rights or grant licenses on terms that are not favorable to us.

 

We incur significant costs as a result of operating as a public company and our management devotes substantial time to public company compliance.

 

As a public company, we incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses due to our compliance with regulations and disclosure obligations applicable to us, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) as well as rules implemented by the SEC, and the OTC Markets. Stockholder activism, the current political environment and the current high level of government intervention and regulatory reform may lead to substantial new regulations and disclosure obligations, which may lead to additional compliance costs and impact, in ways we cannot currently anticipate, the manner in which we operate our business. Our management and other personnel devote a substantial amount of time to monitoring of and compliance with, public company reporting obligations. These rules and regulations cause us to incur significant legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time consuming and costly.

 

To comply with the requirements of being a public company, we may need to undertake various actions, including implementing internal controls and procedures. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. We are continuing to develop and refine our disclosure controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that information required to be disclosed in reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) is accumulated and communicated to our principal executive and financial officers. Any failure to develop or maintain effective controls could harm our operating results, cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations or result in a restatement of prior period financial statements. In the event that we are not able to demonstrate compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, that our internal control over financial reporting is perceived as inadequate or that we are unable to produce timely or accurate financial statements, investors may lose confidence in our operating results and the price of our common stock could decline. In addition, if we are unable to continue to meet these requirements, our common stock may not be able to be eligible for quotation on the OTC Markets or meet the eligibility requirements for the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”).

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm will not be required to formally attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting until the later of our second annual report or the first annual report required to be filed with the SEC following the date we are no longer an “emerging growth company” as defined in the JOBS Act depending on whether we choose to rely on certain exemptions set forth in the JOBS Act. 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 on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, which could harm our business.

 

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We face risks related to the current global economic environment, which could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The state of the global economy continues to be uncertain. The current global economic conditions and uncertain credit markets, concerns regarding the availability of credit pose a risk that could impact our international relationships, as well as our ability to manage normal commercial relationships with our customers, suppliers and creditors, including financial institutions. Global trade issues and the impositions of tariffs could also have an adverse effect on our international business activities. If the current global economic environment deteriorates, our business could be negatively affected.

 

Risks Related to Administrative, Organizational and Commercial Operations and Growth

 

We may be unable to manage our future growth effectively, which could make it difficult to execute our business strategy.

 

We anticipate growth in our business operations. This future growth could create a strain on our organizational, administrative and operational infrastructure, including manufacturing operations, quality control, technical support and customer service, sales force management and general and financial administration. Our ability to manage our growth properly will require us to continue to improve our operational, financial and management controls, as well as our reporting systems and procedures. If we are unable to manage our growth effectively, we may be unable to execute our business plan, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and our results of operations.

 

If we are unable to support demand for our current and our future products, including ensuring that we have adequate resources to meet increased demand our business could be harmed.

 

As our commercial operations and sales volume grow, we will need to continue to increase our workflow capacity for processing, customer service, billing and general process improvements and expand our internal quality assurance program, among other things. We may also need to purchase additional equipment and increase our manufacturing, maintenance, software and computing capacity to meet increased demand. We cannot assure you that any of these increases in scale, expansion of personnel, purchase of equipment or process enhancements will be successfully implemented.

 

The loss of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer or our inability to attract and retain highly skilled officers and key personnel could negatively impact our business.

 

Our success depends on the skills, experience and performance of our Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. The individual and collective efforts of these individuals will be important as we continue to develop and expand our commercial activities. The loss or incapacity of existing members of our executive management team could negatively impact our operations if we experience difficulties in hiring qualified successors. Qualified employees periodically are in great demand and may be unavailable in the time frame required to satisfy our customers’ requirements. Expansion of our business could require us to employ additional personnel. There can be no assurance that we will be able to attract and retain sufficient numbers of skilled employees in the future. The loss of personnel or our inability to hire or retain sufficient personnel at competitive rates could impair the growth of our business.

 

If we were sued for product liability or professional liability, we could face substantial liabilities that exceed our resources.

 

The marketing and sale of our products could lead to the filing of product liability claims alleging that our product made users ill. A product liability claim could result in substantial damages and be costly and time-consuming for us to defend.

 

We maintain product liability insurance, but this insurance may not fully protect us from the financial impact of defending against product liability claims. Any product 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 product liability lawsuit could lead to regulatory investigations, product recalls or withdrawals, damage our reputation or cause current vendors, suppliers and customers to terminate existing agreements and potential customers and partners to seek other suppliers, any of which could negatively impact our results of operations.

 

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We face risks associated with our international business.

 

Our international business operations are subject to a variety of risks, including:

 

  difficulties managing foreign and geographically dispersed operations;
     
  having to comply with various U.S. and international laws, including export control laws and the FCPA, and anti-money laundering laws;
     
  changes in uncertainties relating to foreign rules and regulations;
     
  tariffs, export or import restrictions, restrictions on remittances abroad, imposition of duties or taxes that limit our ability to import product;
     
  limitations on our ability to enter into cost-effective arrangements with distributors, or at all;
     
  fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;
     
  imposition of limitations on production, sale or export in foreign countries;
     
  imposition of limitations on or increase of withholding and other taxes on remittances and other payments by foreign processors or joint ventures;
     
  imposition of differing labor laws and standards;
     
  economic, political or social instability in foreign countries and regions;
     
  an inability, or reduced ability, to protect our intellectual property, including any effect of compulsory licensing imposed by government action;
     
  availability of government subsidies or other incentives that benefit competitors in their local markets that are not available to us;
     
  difficulties in recruiting and retaining personnel, and managing international operations; and
     
  less developed infrastructure.

 

If we expand into other target markets we cannot assure you that our expansion plans will be realized, or if realized, be successful. We expect each market to have particular regulatory and funding hurdles to overcome and future developments in these markets, including the uncertainty relating to governmental policies and regulations, could harm our business. If we expend significant time and resources on expansion plans that fail or are delayed, our reputation, business and financial condition may be harmed.

 

Our results may be impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

 

Currently, the majority of our international sales contracts are denominated in U.S. dollars. We pay certain of our suppliers in a foreign currency and we may pay others in the future in foreign currency. As a result, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies could require us to reduce our selling price or risk making our product less competitive in international markets or our costs could increase. Also, if our international sales increase, we may enter into a greater number of transactions denominated in non-U.S. dollars, which could expose us to foreign currency risks, including changes in currency exchange rates.

 

A larger portion of our revenues may be denominated in other foreign currencies if we expand our international operations. Conducting business in currencies other than U.S. dollars subjects us to fluctuations in currency exchange rates that could have a negative impact on our operating results. Fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies impact our revenues, cost of revenues and operating margins and result in foreign currency translation gains and losses.

 

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We could be negatively impacted by violations of applicable anti-corruption laws or violations of our internal policies designed to ensure ethical business practices.

 

We operate in a number of countries throughout the world, including in countries that do not have as strong a commitment to anti-corruption and ethical behavior that is required by U.S. laws or by corporate policies. We are subject to the risk that we, our U.S. employees or our employees located in other jurisdictions or any third parties that we engage to do work on our behalf in foreign countries may take action determined to be in violation of anti-corruption laws in any jurisdiction in which we conduct business. Any violation of anti-corruption laws or regulations could result in substantial fines, sanctions, civil and/or criminal penalties and curtailment of operations in certain jurisdictions and might harm our business, financial condition or results of operations. Further, detecting, investigating and resolving actual or alleged violations is expensive and can consume significant time and attention of our senior management.

 

We depend on our information technology systems, and any failure of these systems could harm our business.

 

We depend on information technology and telecommunications systems for significant elements of our operations. We have developed propriety software for the management and operation of our business. We have installed, and expect to expand a number of enterprise software systems that affect a broad range of business processes and functional areas, including for example, systems handling human resources, financial controls and reporting, contract management, regulatory compliance and other infrastructure operations.

 

Information technology and telecommunications systems are vulnerable to damage from a variety of sources, including telecommunications or network failures, malicious human acts and natural disasters. Moreover, despite network security and back-up measures, some of our servers are potentially vulnerable to physical or electronic break-ins, computer viruses and similar disruptive problems. Despite the precautionary measures we have taken to prevent unanticipated problems that could affect our information technology and telecommunications systems, failures or significant downtime of our information technology or telecommunications systems or those used by our third-party service providers could prevent us from providing support services and product to our customers and managing the administrative aspects of our business. Any disruption or loss of information technology or telecommunications systems on which critical aspects of our operations depend could harm our business.

 

Our operations are vulnerable to interruption or loss due to natural or other disasters, power loss, strikes and other events beyond our control.

 

We conduct a significant portion of our activities, including administration and data processing, at facilities located in Southern Florida that have experienced major hurricanes and floods which could affect our facilities, could significantly disrupt our operations, and delay or prevent product shipment during the time required to repair, rebuild or replace damaged processing facilities; these delays could be lengthy and costly. Our suppliers in Southeast Asia are also vulnerable to natural disasters which could disrupt their operations and their ability to supply product to us. If any of our customers’ facilities are negatively impacted by a disaster, product shipments could be delayed. Additionally, customers may delay purchases of products until operations return to normal. Even if we and/or our suppliers are able to quickly respond to a disaster, the ongoing effects of the disaster could create some uncertainty in the operations of our business. In addition, our facilities may be subject to a shortage of available electrical power and other energy supplies. Any shortages may increase our costs for power and energy supplies or could result in blackouts, which could disrupt the operations of our affected facilities and harm our business.

 

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Risks Related to Intellectual Property

 

Our intellectual property rights are valuable, and any inability to adequately protect, or uncertainty regarding validity, enforceability or scope of them could undermine our competitive position and reduce the value of our products, services and brand, and litigation to protect our intellectual property rights may be costly.

 

We attempt to strengthen and differentiate our product portfolio by developing new and innovative products and product improvements. As a result, our patents, trademarks, trade secrets, copyrights and other intellectual property rights are important assets to us. Various events outside of our control pose a threat to our intellectual property rights as well as to our products and services. For example, effective intellectual property protection may not be available in countries in which our products are sold. Also, although we have registered our trademark in various jurisdictions, our efforts to protect our proprietary rights may not be sufficient or effective. Any significant impairment of our intellectual property rights could harm our business or our ability to compete and hurt our results of operation. Also, protecting our intellectual property rights is costly and time consuming. Policing unauthorized use of our proprietary technology can be difficult and expensive. Litigation might be necessary to protect our intellectual property rights and any such litigation may be costly and may divert our management’s attention from our core business. An adverse determination in any lawsuit involving our intellectual property is likely to jeopardize our business prospects and reputation. Although we are not aware of any of such litigation, we have no insurance coverage against litigation costs, so we would be forced to bear all litigation costs if we cannot recover them from other parties. All foregoing factors could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Any unauthorized use of our intellectual property could make it more expensive for us to do business and harm our operating results.

 

We may be exposed to infringement or misappropriation claims by third parties, which, if determined against us, could adversely affect our business and subject us to significant liability to third parties.

 

Our success mainly depends on our ability to use and develop our technology and product designs without infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties. We may be subject to litigation involving claims of patent infringement or violations of other intellectual property rights of third parties. Holders of patents and other intellectual property rights potentially relevant to our product offerings may be unknown to us, which may make it difficult for us to acquire a license on commercially acceptable terms. There may also be technologies licensed to us and that we rely upon that are subject to infringement or other corresponding allegations or claims by third parties which may damage our ability to rely on such technologies. In addition, although we endeavor to ensure that companies that work with us possess appropriate intellectual property rights or licenses, we cannot fully avoid the risks of intellectual property rights infringement created by suppliers of components used in our products or by companies we work with in cooperative research and development activities. Our current or potential competitors may have obtained or may obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products. The defense of intellectual property claims, including patent infringement suits, and related legal and administrative proceedings can be both costly and time consuming, and may significantly divert the efforts and resources of our technical personnel and management. These factors could effectively prevent us from pursuing some or all of our business operations and result in our customers or potential customers deferring, canceling or limiting their purchase or use of our products, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our commercial success will depend in part on our success in obtaining and maintaining issued patents and other intellectual property rights in the United States and elsewhere. If we do not adequately protect our intellectual property, competitors may be able to use our processes and erode or negate any competitive advantage we may have, which could harm our business.

 

We cannot provide any assurances that any of our patents have, or that any of our pending patent applications that mature into issued patents will include, claims with a scope sufficient to protect our products, any additional features we develop or any new products. Patents, if issued, may be challenged, deemed unenforceable, invalidated or circumvented.

 

Furthermore, though an issued patent is presumed valid and enforceable, its issuance is not conclusive as to its validity or its enforceability and it may not provide us with adequate proprietary protection or competitive advantages against competitors with similar products. Competitors may also be able to design around our patents. Other parties may develop and obtain patent protection for more effective technologies, designs or methods. We may not be able to prevent the unauthorized disclosure or use of our knowledge or trade secrets by consultants, suppliers, vendors, former employees and current employees. The laws of some foreign countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States, and we may encounter significant problems in protecting our proprietary rights in these countries. If any of these developments were to occur, they each could have a negative impact on our sales.

 

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

 

We rely upon copyright and trade secret protection, as well as non-disclosure agreements and invention assignment agreements with our employees, consultants and third parties, to protect our confidential and proprietary information. In addition to contractual measures, we try to protect the confidential nature of our proprietary information using physical and technological security measures. Such measures may not, for example, in the case of misappropriation of a trade secret by an employee or third party with authorized access, provide adequate protection for our proprietary information. Our security measures may not prevent an employee or consultant from misappropriating our trade secrets and providing them to a competitor, and recourse we take against such misconduct may not provide an adequate remedy to protect our interests fully. Enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated a trade secret can be difficult, expensive and time-consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable. In addition, trade secrets may be independently developed by others in a manner that could prevent legal recourse by us. If any of our confidential or proprietary information, such as our trade secrets, were to be disclosed or misappropriated, or if any such information was independently developed by a competitor, our competitive position could be harmed.

 

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

 

The laws of some foreign countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Many companies have encountered significant problems in protecting and defending intellectual property rights in certain foreign jurisdictions. This could make it difficult for us to stop the infringement or the misappropriation of our intellectual property rights. For example, many foreign countries have compulsory licensing laws under which a patent owner must grant licenses to third parties. In addition, many countries limit the enforceability of patents against third parties, including government agencies or government contractors. In these countries, patents may provide limited or no benefit. Patent protection must ultimately be sought on a country-by-country basis, which is an expensive and time-consuming process with uncertain outcomes. Accordingly, we may choose not to seek patent protection in certain countries, and we will not have the benefit of patent protection in such countries.

 

Proceedings to enforce our patent rights in foreign jurisdictions could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts and attention from other aspects of our business. Accordingly, our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights in such countries may be inadequate. In addition, changes in the law and legal decisions by courts in the United States and foreign countries may affect our ability to obtain adequate protection for our technology and the enforcement of intellectual property.

 

Third parties may assert that our employees or consultants have wrongfully used or disclosed confidential information or misappropriated trade secrets.

 

Although we try to ensure that our employees and consultants do not use the proprietary information or know-how of others in their work for us, we may be subject to claims that we or our employees, consultants or independent contractors have inadvertently or otherwise used or disclosed intellectual property, including trade secrets or other proprietary information, of a former employer or other third parties. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these claims. If we fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights or personnel. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to management and other employees.

 

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Risks Related to Regulatory Matters

 

Our products and operations are subject to government regulation and oversight both in the United States and abroad, and our failure to comply with applicable requirements could harm our business.

 

The FDA and other government agencies regulate, among other things, with respect to our products and operations:

 

  design, development and manufacturing;
     
  testing, labeling, content and language of instructions for use and storage;
     
  product safety;
     
  marketing, sales and distribution;
     
  record keeping procedures;
     
  advertising and promotion;
     
  recalls and corrective actions;
     
  product import and export.

 

The regulations to which we are subject are complex and have tended to become more stringent over time. Regulatory changes could result in restrictions on our ability to carry on or expand our operations, higher than anticipated costs or lower than anticipated sales.

 

The failure to comply with applicable regulations could jeopardize our ability to sell our products and result in enforcement actions such as:

 

  warning letters;
     
  fines;
     
  injunctions;
     
  civil penalties;
     
  termination of distribution;
     
  recalls or seizures of products;
     
  delays in the introduction of products into the market; and
     
  total or partial suspension of production.

 

We may also be required to take corrective actions, such as installing additional equipment or taking other actions, each of which could require us to make substantial capital expenditures. We could also be required to indemnify our employees in connection with any expenses or liabilities that they may incur individually in connection with regulatory action against them. As a result, our future business prospects could deteriorate due to regulatory constraints, and our profitability could be impaired by our obligation to provide such indemnification to our employees.

 

Any of these sanctions could result in higher than anticipated costs or lower than anticipated sales and harm our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Product liability claims could divert management’s attention from our business, be expensive to defend and result in sizeable damage awards against us that may not be covered by insurance.

 

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Risks Relating to this Offering and Our Common Stock

 

The price of our common stock may be volatile and may be influenced by numerous factors, some of which are beyond our control.

 

Factors that could cause volatility in the market price of our common stock include, but are not limited to:

 

  actual or anticipated fluctuations in our financial condition and operating results;
     
  actual or anticipated changes in our growth rate relative to our competitors;
     
  commercial success and market acceptance of our products;
     
  success of our competitors in commercializing products;
     
  strategic transactions undertaken by us;

 

  additions or departures of key personnel;
     
  product liability claims;
     
  prevailing economic conditions;
     
  disputes concerning our intellectual property or other proprietary rights;
     
  U.S. or foreign regulatory actions affecting us or our industry;
     
  sales of our common stock by our officers, directors or significant stockholders;
     
  future sales or issuances of equity or debt securities by us;
     
  business disruptions caused by natural disasters; and
     
  issuance of new or changed securities analysts’ reports or recommendations regarding us.

 

In addition, the stock markets in general have experienced extreme volatility that have been often unrelated to the operating performance of the issuer. These broad market fluctuations may negatively impact the price or liquidity of our common stock. In the past, when the price of a stock has been volatile, holders of that stock have sometimes instituted securities class action litigation against the issuer. If any of our stockholders were to bring such a lawsuit against us, we could incur substantial costs defending the lawsuit and the attention of our management would be diverted from the operation of our business.

 

We are an “emerging growth company” and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth companies,” including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. 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.

 

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In addition, Section 102 of the JOBS Act also 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. An “emerging growth company” can therefore delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to take advantage of the benefits of this extended transition period. Our financial statements may therefore not be comparable to those of companies that comply with such new or revised accounting standards.

 

You may experience dilution of your ownership interests because of the future issuance of additional shares of our common stock or preferred stock or other securities that are convertible into or exercisable for our common stock or preferred stock.

 

If our existing stockholders convert our Series A Stock or exercise warrants or sell, or indicate an intention to sell, substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market after the lock-up Restricted Period lapses, the price of our common stock could decline. The perception in the market that these sales may occur could also cause the price of our common stock to decline.

 

In the future, we may issue authorized but previously unissued equity securities, resulting in the dilution of the ownership interests of the then current stockholders. We are authorized to issue an aggregate of 100,000,000 shares of common stock and 5,000,000 shares of “blank check” preferred stock. We may issue additional shares of our common stock or other securities that are convertible into or exercisable for our common stock in connection with hiring or retaining employees, future acquisitions, future sales of our securities for capital raising purposes, or for other business purposes. The future issuance of any such additional shares of our common stock may create downward pressure on the trading price of the common stock. We may need to raise additional capital in the near future to meet our working capital needs, and there can be no assurance that we will not be required to issue additional shares, warrants or other convertible securities in the future in conjunction with these capital raising efforts, including at a price (or exercise prices) below the price you paid for your stock.

 

There is currently a limited market for our common stock and an investor may be unable to resell shares of our common stock at times and prices believed appropriate.

 

Our common stock has been quoted on the OTC pink sheets under the symbol “BSFC” since February 18, 2020. Currently, there is a limited trading market for our common stock and a more active market for our common stock may never develop. Accordingly, our common stock is highly illiquid, and an investor may experience difficulty buying and selling shares at times and prices that they may desire. Trading in stocks quoted on the OTC pink sheet market is often thin and characterized by wide fluctuations in trading prices. Moreover, the OTC pink sheets is not a stock exchange, and trading of securities is often more sporadic than the trading of securities listed on a quotation system like NASDAQ or a national stock exchange.

 

Our common stock may be deemed a “penny stock” which may reduce the value of an investment in the stock.

 

Rule 15g-9 under the Exchange Act establishes the definition of a “penny stock,” for the purposes relevant to us, as any equity security that has a market price of less than $5.00 per share or with an exercise price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. For any transaction involving a penny stock, unless exempt, the rules require: (a) that a broker or dealer approve a person’s account for transactions in penny stocks; and (b) the broker or dealer receive from the investor a written agreement to the transaction, setting forth the identity and quantity of the penny stock to be purchased.

 

In order to approve a person’s account for transactions in penny stocks, the broker or dealer must: (a) obtain financial information and investment experience objectives of the person and (b) make a reasonable determination that the transactions in penny stocks are suitable for that person and the person has sufficient knowledge and experience in financial matters to be capable of evaluating the risks of transactions in penny stocks.

 

The broker or dealer must also deliver, prior to any transaction in a penny stock, a disclosure schedule prescribed by the SEC relating to the penny stock market, which, in highlight form: (a) sets forth the basis on which the broker or dealer made the suitability determination; and (b) confirms that the broker or dealer received a signed, written agreement from the investor prior to the transaction. Generally, brokers may be less willing to execute transactions in securities subject to the “penny stock” rules. If our common stock is or becomes subject to the “penny stock” rules, it may be more difficult for investors to dispose of our common stock and cause a decline in the market value of our common stock.

 

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Disclosure also has to be made about the risks of investing in penny stocks in both public offerings and in secondary trading and about commissions payable to both the broker or dealer and the registered representative, current quotations for the securities and the rights and remedies available to an investor in cases of fraud in penny stock transactions. Finally, monthly statements have to be sent disclosing recent price information for the penny stock held in the account and information on the limited market in penny stocks.

 

The sales practice requirements of FINRA may limit a stockholder’s ability to buy and sell our common stock.

 

FINRA has adopted rules requiring that, in recommending an investment to a customer, a broker-dealer must have reasonable grounds for believing that the investment is suitable for that customer. Prior to recommending speculative or low-priced securities to their non-institutional customers, broker-dealers must make reasonable efforts to obtain information about the customer’s financial status, tax status, investment objectives and other information. Under interpretations of these rules, FINRA has indicated its belief that there is a high probability that speculative or low-priced securities will not be suitable for at least some customers. If these FINRA requirements are applicable to us or our securities, they may make it more difficult for broker-dealers to recommend that at least some of their customers buy our common stock, which may limit the ability of our stockholders to buy and sell our common stock and could have an adverse effect on the market for and price of our common stock.

 

Our operating results for a particular period may fluctuate significantly or may fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts, each of which may cause the price of our common stock to fluctuate or decline.

 

We expect our operating results to be subject to fluctuations. Our operating results will be affected by numerous factors, including:

 

  variations in the level of expenses related to future development plans;
     
  fluctuations in value of the underlying commodity;
     
  inability to procure sufficient quantities to meet demand due to the scarcity of the product available from its suppliers
     
  level of underlying demand for our products and any other products we sell;
     
  any intellectual property infringement lawsuit or opposition, interference or cancellation proceeding in which we may become involved;
     
  regulatory developments affecting us or our competitors; and

 

  the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

If our operating results for a particular period fall below the expectations of investors or securities analysts, the price of our common stock could decline substantially. Furthermore, any fluctuations in our operating results may, in turn, cause the price of our common stock to fluctuate substantially. We believe that comparisons of our financial results from various reporting periods are not necessarily meaningful and should not be relied upon as an indication of our future performance.

 

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Our principal stockholders and management own a significant percentage of our common stock and will be able to exercise significant influence over matters subject to stockholder approval.

 

As of October 25, 2021, our executive officers, directors and principal stockholders, together with their respective affiliates, owned approximately 67% of our common stock, excluding shares subject to outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after such date. Accordingly, these stockholders will be able to exert a significant degree of influence over our management and affairs and over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of our board of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions. This concentration of ownership could have the effect of entrenching our management and/or the board of directors, delaying or preventing a change in our control or otherwise discouraging a potential acquirer from attempting to obtain control of us, which in turn could have a material and adverse effect on the fair market value of our common stock.

 

Because we became a reporting company under the Exchange Act by means other than a traditional underwritten initial public offering, we may not be able to attract the attention of research analysts at major brokerage firms.

 

Because we did not become a reporting company by conducting an underwritten initial public offering of our common stock, and because we will not be listed on a national securities exchange, securities analysts of brokerage firms may not provide coverage of our company. In addition, investment banks may be less likely to agree to underwrite secondary offerings on our behalf than they might if we became a public reporting company by means of an underwritten initial public offering, because they may be less familiar with our company as a result of more limited coverage by analysts and the media, and because we became public at an early stage in our development. The failure to receive research coverage or support in the market for our shares will have an adverse effect on our ability to develop a liquid market for our common stock.

 

Because the Merger was a reverse merger, the Registration Statement we file with respect to the shares of common stock received by investors in the Merger might be subject to heightened scrutiny by the SEC.

 

Additional risks may exist as a result of our becoming a public reporting company through a “reverse merger.” Certain SEC rules are more restrictive when applied to reverse merger companies, such as the ability of stockholders to re-sell their shares pursuant to Rule 144.

 

Historically, the SEC has taken the position that Rule 144 under the Securities Act is not available for the resale of securities initially issued by companies that are, or previously were, blank check companies, to their promoters or affiliates despite technical compliance with the requirements of Rule 144. The SEC has codified and expanded this position in its amendments effective on February 15, 2008, which applies to securities acquired both before and after that date by prohibiting the use of Rule 144 for resale of securities issued by shell companies (other than business transaction related shell companies) or issuers that have been at any time previously a shell company. The SEC has provided an important exception to this prohibition, however, if the following conditions are met:

 

  the issuer of the securities that was formerly a shell company has ceased to be a shell company;
     
  the issuer of the securities is subject to the reporting requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act;
     
  the issuer of the securities has filed all Exchange Act reports and material required to be filed, as applicable, during the preceding 12 months (or such shorter period that the issuer was required to file such reports and materials), other than Form 8-K reports; and
     
  at least one year has elapsed from the time that the issuer filed current Form 10 type information with the SEC reflecting its status as an entity that is not a shell company.

 

In addition, for proposed sales under Rule 144, there must be adequate current information about the issuing company publicly available before the sale can be made. For reporting companies, this generally means that the companies have complied with the periodic reporting requirements of the Exchange Act. As such, due to the fact that we were a shell company until the effective time of the reverse merger, holders of “restricted securities” within the meaning of Rule 144 will be subject to the above conditions.

 

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Issuance of stock to fund our operations may dilute your investment and reduce your equity interest.

 

We may need to raise capital in the future to fund the development of our seafood business. Any equity financing may have significant dilutive effect to stockholders and a material decrease in our stockholders’ equity interest in us. Equity financing, if obtained, could result in substantial dilution to our existing stockholders. At its sole discretion, our board of directors may issue additional securities without seeking stockholder approval, and we do not know when we will need additional capital or, if we do, whether it will be available to us.

 

Provisions of our charter documents or Delaware law could delay or prevent an acquisition of the Company, even if such an acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders, which could make it more difficult for you to change management.

 

Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and our bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, acquisition or other change in control that stockholders may consider favorable, including transactions in which stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares. In addition, these provisions may frustrate or prevent any attempt by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management by making it more difficult to replace or remove our board of directors.

 

In addition, Delaware law prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a business combination with an interested stockholder, generally a person who, together with its affiliates, owns, or within the last three years has owned, 15% or more of our voting stock, for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the business combination is approved in a prescribed manner. Accordingly, Delaware law may discourage, delay or prevent a change in control of the company. Furthermore, our certificate of incorporation will specify that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the sole and exclusive forum for most legal actions involving actions brought against us by stockholders. We believe this provision benefits us by providing increased consistency in the application of Delaware law by chancellors particularly experienced in resolving corporate disputes, efficient administration of cases on a more expedited schedule relative to other forums and protection against the burdens of multi-forum litigation. However, the provision may have the effect of discouraging lawsuits against our directors and officers. The enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation has been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that, in connection with any applicable action brought against us, a court could find the choice of forum provisions contained in our certificate of incorporation to be inapplicable or unenforceable in such action.

 

We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future; therefore, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock will be your sole source of gain for the foreseeable future.

 

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our common stock. We do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings to fund the development and growth of our business. In addition, our current loan and security agreement with ACF contains, and our future loan arrangements, if any, may contain, terms prohibiting or limiting the amount of dividends that may be declared or paid on our common stock. As a result, capital appreciation, if any, of our common stock will be your sole source of gain for the foreseeable future.

 

We may apply the proceeds of this offering to uses that ultimately do not improve our operating results or increase the value of our common stock.

 

We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering for general working capital purposes. However, we do not have more specific plans for the net proceeds from this offering and our management has broad discretion in how we use these proceeds. These proceeds could be applied in ways that do not improve our operating results or otherwise increase the value of our common stock.

 

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or publish unfavorable research about our business, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

 

The trading market for our common stock will be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts publish about us or our business. If one or more of these analysts ceases coverage of our company or fails to publish reports on us regularly, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline. Moreover, if our operating results do not meet the expectations of the investor community, one or more of the analysts who cover our company may change their recommendations regarding our company, and our stock price could decline.

 

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Risks Related to the COVID-19 pandemic

 

COVID-19 has caused significant disruptions to the global financial markets which impacts our ability to raise additional capital

 

The full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve. Management is actively monitoring the situation but given the daily evolution of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Company is not able to estimate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on its operations or financial condition in the next 12 months. Additionally, the continued spread of COVID-19 and uncertain market conditions may limit the Company’s ability to access capital.

 

We may consider raising additional capital in the future to expand our business, to pursue strategic investments, to take advantage of financing opportunities or for other reasons, including to:

 

  increase our sales and marketing efforts and address competitive developments;
     
  provide for supply and inventory costs;
     
  fund development and marketing efforts of any future products or additional features to then-current products;
     
  acquire, license or invest in new technologies;
     
  acquire or invest in complementary businesses or assets; and
     
  finance capital expenditures and general and administrative expenses.

 

Our present and future funding requirements will depend on many factors, including:

 

  our ability to achieve revenue growth and improve gross margins;
     
  the cost of expanding our operations and offerings, including our sales and marketing efforts;
     
  the effect of competing market developments;
     
  costs related to international expansion; and
     
  the continuing effects of COVID-19.

 

If we raise funds by issuing equity securities, dilution to our stockholders could result. Any equity securities issued also could provide for rights, preferences or privileges senior to those of holders of our common stock. If we raise funds by issuing debt securities, those debt securities would have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of holders of our common stock. The terms of debt securities issued or borrowings pursuant to a credit agreement could impose significant restrictions on our operations. If we raise funds through collaborations and licensing arrangements, we might be required to relinquish significant rights or grant licenses on terms that are not favorable to us.

 

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We may experience disruptions of or restrictions on our operations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

As the result of current restrictions put in place to address COVID-19, we have had limited access to our corporate offices and our corporate staff has been required to work remotely, disrupting interactions among our staff, with our customers and suppliers, and with our accountants, consultants and advisors. The extent to which our results may continue to be affected by COVID-19 will largely depend on future developments which cannot be accurately predicted, including the duration and scope of the pandemic, governmental and business responses to the pandemic and the impact on the global economy, our customers’ demand for our products, and our ability to provide our products and access our offices and facilities. While these factors are uncertain, the COVID-19 pandemic or the perception of its effects could continue to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

We may not be entitled to forgiveness of our paycheck protection program loan (“PPP Loan”), and our application for the PPP Loans could in the future be determined to have been impermissible or could result in damage to our reputation.

 

On March 2, 2021, we received proceeds of $371,944 from a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program of the CARES Act, a portion or all of which may be forgiven, which we used to retain current employees, maintain payroll and make lease and utility payments. The PPP Loan matures on March 1, 2026 and bears annual interest at a rate of 1.0%. Commencing on the date that is the latter of (i) the date that is the 10th month after the end of the Company’s PPP Loan covered period (as described below) and (ii) assuming the Company has applied for PPP Loan forgiveness within the period described in clause (i), the date on which SBA remits the loan forgiveness amount on the Company’s PPP Loan to the PPP lender (or notifies such lender that no loan forgiveness is allowed), we are required to pay the lender equal monthly payments of principal and interest as required to fully amortize by March 1, 2026, any principal amount outstanding on the PPP Loan as of June 2, 2022. A portion or all of the PPP Loan may be forgiven by the SBA upon our application and upon documentation of expenditures in accordance with the SBA requirements. Under the CARES Act, loan forgiveness is available for the sum of documented payroll costs, covered rent payments, covered mortgage interest and covered utilities during the twenty-four-week period or, if elected by the Company, the eight-week period beginning on the date the loan is advanced. Not more than 40% of the forgiven amount may be for non-payroll costs. The amount of the PPP Loan eligible to be forgiven may be limited due to declines in headcount, whether voluntary or involuntary, or if salaries and wages for employees with salaries of $100,000 or less annually are reduced by more than 25% as compared to the period of January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020. We will be required to repay any portion of the outstanding principal that is not forgiven, along with accrued interest, in accordance with the amortization schedule described above. There can be no assurances that we will be eligible for loan forgiveness, that we will ultimately apply for forgiveness, or that any amount of the PPP Loan will ultimately be forgiven by the SBA.

 

In order to apply for the PPP Loan, we were required to certify, among other things, that the current economic uncertainty made the PPP Loan request necessary to support our ongoing operations. We made this certification in good faith after analyzing, among other things, our financial situation and access to alternative forms of capital and believe that we satisfied all eligibility criteria for the PPP Loan, and that our receipt of the PPP Loan is consistent with the broad objectives of the Paycheck Protection Program of the CARES Act. The certification described above does not contain any objective criteria and is subject to interpretation. On April 23, 2020, the SBA issued guidance stating that it is unlikely that a public company with substantial market value and access to capital markets will be able to make the required certification in good faith. The lack of clarity regarding loan eligibility under the Paycheck Protection Program has resulted in significant media coverage and controversy with respect to public companies applying for and receiving loans. If, despite our good-faith belief that given our Company’s circumstances we satisfied all eligible requirements for the PPP Loan, we are later determined to have violated any of the laws or governmental regulations that apply to us in connection with the PPP Loan, such as the False Claims Act, or it is otherwise determined that we were ineligible to receive the PPP Loan, we may be subject to penalties, including significant civil, criminal and administrative penalties and could be required to repay the PPP Loan in its entirety. In addition, receipt of a PPP Loan may result in adverse publicity and damage to reputation, and a review or audit by the SBA or other government entity or claims under the False Claims Act could consume significant financial and management resources. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

 

We estimate that we will receive net proceeds from this offering of approximately $3,545,000 (or approximately $4,103,000 if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares of common stock in full), based upon an assumed public offering price of $5.00 per share, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

Each $1.00 increase or decrease in the assumed public offering price per share of $5.00 would increase or decrease the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $744,000, assuming 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 estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

 

We currently intend to use the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, including working capital, operating expenses, and capital expenditures. We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to acquire or make investments in businesses, products, and offerings, although we do not have agreements or commitments for any material acquisitions or investments at this time.

 

The expected use of net proceeds from this offering represents our intentions based upon our present plans and business conditions. We cannot predict with certainty all of the particular uses for the proceeds of this offering or the amounts that we will actually spend on the uses set forth above. Accordingly, our management will have broad discretion in applying the net proceeds of this offering. The timing and amount of our actual expenditures will be based on many factors, including cash flows from operations and the anticipated growth of our business.

 

Effect of Sales on Our Stockholders

 

All shares of common stock that are covered by this prospectus are expected to be freely tradable. The issuance and sale of a significant amount of shares registered in this offering could cause the market price of our common stock to decline and to be highly volatile.

 

Issuances of our common stock will not affect the rights or privileges of our existing stockholders, except that the economic and voting interests of our existing stockholders will be diluted as a result of any such issuances. Although the number of shares of common stock that our existing stockholders own will not decrease, the shares owned by our existing stockholders will represent a smaller percentage of our total outstanding shares after any such issuances.

 

Penny Stock Rules

 

Our shares of common stock are subject to the “penny stock” rules of the Exchange Act. In general terms, “penny stock” is defined as any equity security that has a market price less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions. The rules provide that any equity security is considered to be a penny stock unless that security is registered and traded on a national securities exchange meeting specified criteria set by the SEC, authorized for quotation from the NASDAQ stock market, issued by a registered investment company, and excluded from the definition on the basis of price (at least $5.00 per share), or based on the issuer’s net tangible assets or revenues. In the last case, the issuer’s net tangible assets must exceed $3,000,000 if in continuous operation for at least three years or $5,000,000 if in operation for less than three years, or the issuer’s average revenues for each of the past three years must exceed $6,000,000.

 

Trading in shares of penny stock is subject to additional sales practice requirements for broker-dealers who sell penny stocks to persons other than established customers and accredited investors. Accredited investors, in general, include individuals with assets in excess of $1,000,000 or annual income exceeding $200,000 (or $300,000 together with their spouse), and certain institutional investors. For transactions covered by these rules, broker-dealers must make a special suitability determination for the purchase of the security and must have received the purchaser’s written consent to the transaction prior to the purchase. Additionally, for any transaction involving a penny stock, the rules require the delivery prior to the first transaction, of a risk disclosure document relating to the penny stock. A broker-dealer also must disclose the commissions payable to both the broker-dealer and the registered representative, and current quotations for the security. Finally, monthly statements must be sent disclosing recent price information for the penny stocks. These rules may restrict the ability of broker-dealers to trade or maintain a market in our common stock, to the extent it is penny stock, and may affect the ability of stockholders to sell their shares.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES

 

The following description of our capital stock is only a summary and is qualified in its entirety by the provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, each as amended and restated, which have been filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part.

 

We have authorized capital stock consisting of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, and 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share. As of October 25, 2021, we had 23,337,541 shares of common stock and no shares of preferred stock issued and outstanding.

 

Common Stock

 

The holders of outstanding shares of common stock are entitled to receive dividends out of assets or funds legally available for the payment of dividends of such times and in such amounts as the board from time to time may determine. Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. There is no cumulative voting of the election of directors then standing for election. The common stock is not entitled to pre-emptive rights and is not subject to conversion or redemption. Upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of our company, the assets legally available for distribution to stockholders are distributable ratably among the holders of the common stock after payment of liquidation preferences, if any, on any outstanding payment of other claims of creditors.

 

Preferred Stock

 

Our Board of Directors may issue preferred stock in one or more series without stockholder approval. Our Board of Directors may determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including voting rights, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences, of each series of preferred stock.

 

Our Board of Directors has designated 10,000 shares of preferred stock as “8% Series A Convertible Preferred Stock”.

 

The Series A Stock has no maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or redemption and will remain outstanding indefinitely unless and until converted by the holder or the Company redeems or otherwise repurchases the Series A Stock.

 

Ranking. The Series A Stock ranks, with respect to the payment of dividends and/or the distribution of assets in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, (i) senior to all classes or series of common stock, and to all other equity securities issued by the Company; (ii) on parity with all equity securities issued by the Company with terms specifically providing that those equity securities rank on parity with the Series A Stock; (iii) junior to all equity securities issued by the Company with terms specifically providing that those equity securities rank senior to the Series A Stock; and (iv) effectively junior to all existing and future indebtedness (including indebtedness convertible into our common stock or preferred stock) of the Company.

 

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Dividends. Cumulative dividends shall accrue on each share of Series A Stock at the rate of 8% (the “Dividend Rate”) of the purchase price of $1,000.00 per share, commencing on the date of issuance. Dividends are payable quarterly, when and if declared by the Board, beginning on September 30, 2018 (each a “Dividend Payment Date”) and are payable in shares of common stock (a “PIK Dividend”) with such shares being valued at the daily volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the common stock for the thirty trading days immediately prior to each Dividend Payment Date or if not traded or quoted as determined by an independent appraiser selected in good faith by the Company. Any fractional shares of a PIK Dividend will be rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a share. All shares of common stock issued in payment of a PIK Dividend will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable. Dividends will accumulate whether or not the Company has earnings, there are funds legally available for the payment of those dividends and whether or not those dividends are declared by the Board. No dividends on shares of Series A Stock shall be authorized, paid or set apart for payment at any time when the terms and provisions of any agreement of the Company prohibit the authorization, payment or setting apart for payment thereof or provide that the authorization, payment or setting apart for payment thereof would constitute a breach of the agreement or a default under the agreement, or if the authorization, payment or setting apart for payment is restricted or prohibited by law. No dividends will be declared or paid or set aside for payment and no other distribution will be declared or made upon shares of common stock or preferred stock that rank junior to the Series A Stock as to the payment of dividends, or upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the Company, and (iii) any shares of common stock and preferred stock that the Company may issue ranking junior to the Series A Stock as to the payment of dividends, or the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up, shall not be redeemed, purchased or otherwise acquired for any consideration (or any moneys be paid to or made available for a sinking fund for the redemption of any such shares) by the Company (except by conversion into or exchange for other capital stock of the Company that it may issue ranking junior to the Series A Stock as to the payment of dividends, or the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up).

 

In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, the holders of shares of Series A Stock will be entitled to be paid out of the assets the Company has legally available for distribution to its shareholders, subject to the preferential rights of the holders of any class or series of capital stock of the Company it may issue ranking senior to the Series A Stock with respect to the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, a liquidation preference of the Purchase Price, before any distribution of assets is made to holders of common stock or any other class or series of capital stock of the Company that it may issue that ranks junior to the Series A Stock as to liquidation rights. The liquidation preference shall be proportionately adjusted in the event of a stock split, stock combination or similar event so that the aggregate liquidation preference allocable to all outstanding shares of Series A Stock immediately prior to such event is the same immediately after giving effect to such event.

 

Liquidation Preference. In the event that, upon any such voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up, the available assets of the Company are insufficient to pay the amount of the liquidating distributions on all outstanding shares of the Series A Stock and the corresponding amounts payable on all shares of other classes or series of capital stock of the Company that it may issue ranking on a parity with the Series A Stock in the distribution of assets, then the holders of the Series A Stock and all other such classes or series of capital stock shall share ratably in any such distribution of assets in proportion to the full liquidating distributions to which they would otherwise be respectively entitled. The consolidation or merger of the Company with or into any other entity or the sale, lease, transfer or conveyance of all or substantially all of the property or business the Company, will not be deemed a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company.

 

Conversion. Each share of Series A Stock is convertible at any time and in the sole discretion of the holder thereof, into shares of common stock at a conversion rate of 500 shares of common stock per each share of Series A Stock (the “Conversion Rate”), subject to adjustment from time to time as follows: if the Company declares or pays any dividend or makes any distribution on common stock payable in shares of common stock, or effects a subdivision or split or a combination, consolidation or reverse split of the outstanding shares of common stock then in each such case the Conversion Ratio will be adjusted, so that the holder of any shares of Series A Stock will be entitled to receive upon conversion thereof the number of shares of common stock or other securities or property that such holder would have owned or have been entitled to receive upon the happening of such event had such Series A Stock been converted immediately prior to the relevant record date or the effective date of such event.

 

Upon a merger, share exchange or consolidation of the Company, the sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other disposition or encumbrance, of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets, or any agreement providing for any of the foregoing, each share of Series A Stock will remain outstanding and will thereafter be convertible into, or will be converted into a security which shall be convertible into, the kind and amount of securities or other property to which a holder of the number of shares of common stock of the Company deliverable upon conversion of such share of Series A Stock immediately prior to such business combination would have been entitled upon such business combination.

 

Share Reservation. The Company is obligated to at all times reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued shares of common stock, a sufficient number of its shares of common stock as shall from time to time be to effect the conversion of all outstanding shares of the Series A Stock.

 

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Voting. Holders of Series A Stock have no voting rights, except (i) the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the Series A Stock outstanding will be required to authorize or create, or increase the authorized or issued amount of capital stock ranking senior to the Series A Stock with respect to payment of dividends or the distribution of assets upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up or reclassify any of the authorized capital stock of the Company into such shares, or create, authorize or issue any obligation or security convertible into or evidencing the right to purchase any such shares, or amend the Certificate of Incorporation which would have a material adverse effect on the rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers of the Series A Stock or (ii) as otherwise required by law. On each matter on which holders of Series A Stock are entitled to vote, each share of Series A Stock will be entitled to one vote.

 

While we do not currently have any plans for the issuance of additional preferred stock, the issuance of such preferred stock could adversely affect the rights of the holders of common stock and, therefore, reduce the value of the common stock. It is not possible to state the actual effect of the issuance of any shares of preferred stock on the rights of holders of the common stock until the board of directors determines the specific rights of the holders of the preferred stock; however, these effects may include:

 

  Restricting dividends on the common stock;
     
  Diluting the voting power of the common stock;
     
  Impairing the liquidation rights of the common stock; or
     
  Delaying or preventing a change in control of the Company without further action by the stockholders.

 

On June 30, 2021, all of the 1,413 shares of Series A Stock then issued and outstanding were converted into an aggregate of 706,500 shares of common stock of the Company.

 

Warrants

 

We issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,500,000 shares of common stock to investors in an offering from June 17, 2021 through July 14, 2021, in which the Company entered into subscription agreements with certain “accredited investor” (as defined in Regulation D under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share and will expire three years from the date of issuance. Prior to exercise, the warrants do not confer upon holders any voting or any other rights as a stockholder.

 

The warrants contain provisions that protect the holders against dilution by adjustment of the purchase price in certain events such as stock dividends, stock splits and other similar events.

 

Also outstanding are three-year warrants to purchase an aggregate of 353,250 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.40 per share which expire November 8, 2021.

 

Options

 

There is an outstanding ten-year option to purchase an aggregate of 3,120,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $2.00 per share granted under the 2018 Plan to the former chief financial officer of the Company in connection with the Merger. The options related to the former chief executive officer of the Company, Carlos Faria, were forfeited in 2019. On April 12, 2021, each of the Company’s directors was granted, pursuant to a director service agreement, a four-year option to purchase 100,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share which vests as to 1/12 of the shares subject to the option on a monthly basis during the first year from the date of grant.

 

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Underwriter Warrants

 

We intend to issue warrants to the underwriters to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 7.0% of the total number of shares of common stock sold in this offering at an exercise price equal to the public offering price of the shares of common stock sold in this offering. These warrants will be exercisable for three years from the effective date of the registration statement filed for this offering. The underwriter’s warrants will provide for cash exercise provisions and will be non-callable and non-cancelable with immediate “piggyback” registration rights as well as customary anti-dilution protections.

 

Other Convertible Securities

 

As of October 25, 2021, other than the securities described above, the Company does not have any outstanding convertible securities.

 

Transfer Agent

 

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock is VStock Transfer, LLC, with an address of 18 Lafayette Place, Woodmere, New York 11598 and its telephone number is (212) 828-8436.

 

Delaware Anti-Takeover Statute

 

We are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which prohibits a person deemed an “interested stockholder” from engaging in a “business combination” with a publicly held Delaware corporation for three years following the date such person becomes an interested stockholder unless the business combination is, or the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder was, approved in a prescribed manner or another prescribed exception applies. Generally, an “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior to the determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock. Generally, a “business combination” includes a merger, asset or stock sale, or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. The existence of this provision may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by the board of directors, such as discouraging takeover attempts that might result in a premium over the price of our common stock.

 

Undesignated Preferred Stock

 

The ability to authorize undesignated preferred stock makes it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences that could impede the success of any attempt to change control of the company. These and other provisions may have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in control or management of the company.

 

Special Stockholder Meetings

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that a special meeting of stockholders may be called only by a majority of our board of directors.

 

Requirements for Advance Notification of Stockholder Nominations and Proposals

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws establish advance notice procedures with respect to stockholder proposals and the nomination of candidates for election as directors, other than nominations made by or at the direction of the board of directors or a committee of the board of directors.

 

The provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our certificate of incorporation and our bylaws could have the effect of discouraging others from attempting hostile takeovers and, as a consequence, they may also inhibit temporary fluctuations in the price of our common stock that often result from actual or rumored hostile takeover attempts. These provisions may also have the effect of preventing changes in our management. It is possible that these provisions could make it more difficult to accomplish transactions that stockholders may otherwise deem to be in their best interests.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

 

We are an international sustainable marine protein company that owns and operates several portfolio companies with an emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) values. We seek to create a vertically integrated seafood company that offers customers high quality products while maintaining a focus on our core values of delivering food safety, traceability and certified resource sustainability. Our companies include:

 

Blue Star Foods Corp., which imports, packages and sells refrigerated pasteurized crab meat sourced primarily from Southeast Asia and other premium seafood products;

 

Coastal Pride Company, Inc. (“Coastal Pride”), which imports pasteurized and fresh crab meat sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crab meat throughout North America; and

 

Taste of BC Aquafarms, Inc. (“TOBC”), a family-owned and operated, land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (“RAS”) salmon farming operation, which sells its steelhead salmon to distributors in Canada.

 

Strategy

 

Our long-term strategy is to create a vertically integrated seafood company that offers customers high quality products while maintaining a focus on our core values of delivering food safety, traceability and certified resource sustainability.

 

We plan to grow the Company organically by continuing to grow our customer base and introducing new high-value product lines and categories, as well as strategically acquiring companies that focus on additional species and proprietary technologies that we believe we can integrate into a larger, diversified company.

 

Operating Companies

 

John Keeler & Co. Inc. dba as Blue Star Foods Corp. is an international seafood company that imports, packages and sells refrigerated pasteurized crab meat and other premium seafood products.

 

 

We purchase the majority of our crab product (Portunus Pelagicus and Portunus Haanii) from processors which source the crab meat from local fishermen in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and India, to whom we pay a premium in order to outfit their boats with a proprietary GPS-based system. This system allows us to trace where the crab product originates and ensure that only mature crabs are being harvested by the use of collapsible traps and not gill nets.

 

The crab meat is purchased directly from processors with whom we have long-standing relationships, that have agreed to source their product in a sustainable manner. All crab meat is sourced under the Company’s FDA approved Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (“HACCP”) Plan. Additionally, all suppliers are certified by the British Retail Consortium (the “BRC”) and are audited annually to ensure safety and quality of our product.

 

The crab meat which we import is processed in 13 plants throughout Southeast Asia. Our suppliers are primarily via co-packing relationships, including two affiliated suppliers. We sell primarily to food service distributors. We also sell our products to wholesalers, retail establishments and seafood distributors.

 

We have created a technology platform that tracks the product through its entire chain of custody and collects and transmits various data to the Company in real-time, from the loading site to the packing plant, through the sorting and pasteurization process and the exporting process to the end customer. Our technology allows our customers access to their “Scan on Demand” QR code-enabled traceability application.

 

Our premium proprietary brands (Blue Star, Pacifika and Oceanica) are differentiated in terms of quality and price point. (See Branded Products for more detail.)

 

We believe that we utilize best-in-class technology, in both resource sustainability management and ecological packaging.

 

Our warehouse facility in Miami, Florida is the only crab meat facility audited by the BRC (graded A++) in the U.S.

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Coastal Pride is a seafood company, based in Beaufort, South Carolina, that imports pasteurized and fresh crab meat (Portunus Pelagicus, Portunus Haanii and Callinectes) sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crab meat throughout North America.

 

 

It has three premium branded label products, including First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh. (See Branded Products for more detail.)

 

Coastal Pride was acquired by Blue Star Foods Corp. on November 26, 2019.

 

Taste of BC Aquafarms (TOBC) is a land-based salmon recirculating aquaculture farm located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada with an annual production capacity of approximately 100 tons. The company produces steelhead salmon under the brand name Little Cedar Farms for distribution in Canada.

  

 

The initial facility has been operated as a model farm in which the development of salmon RAS technology has been developed and proven. We intend to refine this model farm into a 150 tons standardized module that will be replicated in the development of future farms. The next facility we plan to build will have 10 such modules, for a total production capacity of 1,500 tons.

 

The current RAS facility is in an insulated, bio-secure structure where all culture conditions are controlled. The primary RAS system is composed of 13 culture tanks, a drum filter, fluidized sand bed biofilter and low head oxygenator and employs an efficient gravity fed low head arrangement which reduces energy use as compared to other RAS designs. Additionally, there are two independent partial reuse finishing tank systems.

 

Weekly harvests of approximately two tons of salmon are stunned and bled at the farm and then processed as fresh iced HOG (head on gutted) fish at a Canadian Food Inspection Agency approved processing facility. Currently, TOBC sells its salmon to two wholesale seafood distributors in Canada.

 

Eggs are purchased from two primary suppliers and are hatched approximately every eight weeks. TOBC’s hatchery is composed of a recirculating system that utilizes an upwelling “heath stack” incubator and five tanks with moving bed biofiltration. The fish are then transferred to the main RAS system approximately 12 weeks post hatch.

 

TOBC’s feed is largely terrestrial based from grains and other non-marine ingredients.

 

The faster life cycle from birth to harvesting of our salmon, as compared to conventional salmon, allows it to be produced more economically in contained, land-based RAS farms. Although RAS farms require greater capital investment than the sea cage approach, we believe that the higher costs are offset by more efficient growth and a shorter transportation distance to market.

 

TOBC was acquired by the Company on June 24, 2021.

 

Branded Products

 

Between the three companies, we currently have the following branded products: Blue Star, Pacifika, Oceanica, Crab & Go Premium Seafood, Lubkin, First Choice, Good Stuff, Coastal Pride Fresh and Little Cedar Falls.

 

  

 

Blue Star is packed with only high quality Portunus Pelagicus species crab and is produced under exacting specifications and quality control requirements.

 

Pacifika is a quality brand for the price conscious end user. The Portunus Haanii crab meat is packed in China and is ideal for upscale plate presentations.

 

Oceanica is made from the Portunus Haanii crab, which is caught and processed in Vietnam. It is an affordable choice to help reduce food cost without sacrificing the look/taste of dishes.

 

Lubkin Brand is packed with quality Portunus Pelagicus species crab in the Philippines and Indonesia.

 

First Choice is a quality brand packed with Portunus Haanii crab meat from Malaysia.

 

Good Stuff is a premium brand packed with high quality Callinectes species crab from Mexico.

 

Coastal Pride Fresh Brand is packed with Callinectes Sapidus from Venezuela and the United States.

 

Grab + Go Premium Seafood is geared towards millennials as part of the trend toward pre-packaged, grab-and-go items. The product is packaged in flexible foil pouches.

 

Steelhead salmon is produced by TOBC under the “Little Cedar Falls” brand. The fish are sashimi grade and only sold as a fresh item, usually reaching end users within days of harvest.

 

Competitive Strengths

 

Sustainable and Traceable Product Sourcing. We believe that our greatest point of differentiation from other seafood companies is our efforts to ensure that our seafood products are ethically sourced in a method that is consistent with our core values and those of our customers.

 

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Proprietary Brands. We have created several brands of crab meat that are well regarded amongst our customers and are differentiated by product quality and price point.

  

Eco-Friendly Packaging. Another major point of differentiation from our competitors is our use of sustainable and ethical packaging. Our green pouches for Eco-Fresh crab meat are patented in the United States, Europe, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia under patent Nos.1526091 B1 and US Patents 8,337,922 and 8,445,046. Since their introduction in 2003, these pouches have saved in excess of 800 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions versus metal can packaging material.

 

Growth Strategy

 

We intend to grow our business in several ways, including:

 

Growing the existing platform businesses. The three current existing businesses each have different pathways to organic growth, including, but not limited to, increasing their reliable access to sustainably sourced marine product and supplying to a larger and more diversified customer base. Our key objective is to optimize the management of the companies across all operating platforms, specifically in the marketing, sourcing and financing departments.

 

Strategic Acquisitions. We will continue to seek opportunities to acquire companies that allow us to expand into new territories, diversify our species product categories, and where operational synergies with our existing companies may exist. We believe that we may have the ability to layer on a sustainability model to certain companies that operate in a more traditional way, with an opportunity to increase margins by selling a more premium product.

 

Scaling the RAS Business. We have an internal goal to reach production of 21,000 metric tons of steelhead salmon by 2028. If we can successfully access the necessary funding through the equity capital markets and through certain debt facilities, we intend to build a series of 1,500 metric ton and 3,000 metric ton facilities throughout strategic locations in British Columbia, Canada, where TOBC is currently based.

 

Industry Overview

 

The international seafood industry is going through a period of rapid change as it strives to meet the needs of a growing population around the world, where food consumption habits are evolving. We believe there are powerful trends emerging in the developing world (including a growing demand for animal-based protein) as well as in the developed world (where there is an increased awareness and focus on sustainable sourcing and protecting marine ecosystems).

 

Changes in Population Growth and Global Seafood Consumption

 

The United Nations estimates that there will be close to 9.7 billion people on our planet by the year 2050, a significant increase from the existing population estimates of 7.7 billion(1).
As the population has grown, so has per capita fish consumption. Per capita food fish consumption grew from 9.0 kg (live weight equivalent) in 1961 to 20.5 kg in 2018, by about 1.5% per year(2).

 

Aquaculture Has Developed as a Major Source to Meet Global Seafood Demand

 

The wild fish catch reached a peak at 94 metric tons(3)(in the mid-1990s) and has since stagnated. Nearly all of the increase in world marine protein supply has since come from aquaculture.
In 2016, aquaculture provided more than half (80 metric tons)(4) of all marine protein consumed.
It is estimated that aquaculture production may need to double between 2010 through 2050, from 60 metric tons in 2010 to roughly 140 metric tons in 2050(5), to meet estimated demand.

 

We believe that Recirculatory Aquatic Systems are likely to be a highly disruptive technology

 

Rear fish at high densities, in indoor tanks in a “controlled” environment.
The culture water is purified and reused continuously, in an almost completely closed circuit.
Recirculating systems are capable of reusing approximately 90% of culture water.
Solid waste, ammonium and CO2 are either removed or converted into non-toxic bio products (fertilizers).
  The purified water is subsequently saturated with oxygen and returned to the fish tanks.

 

(1) United Nations – Department of Economic and Social Affairs (2019)

(2)(3)(4)(5) Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations “The State of the World Fisheries and Aquaculture – 2020.

 

Suppliers

 

We purchase crab meat directly from 13 processors with which we have long-standing relationships, that have agreed to source their product in a sustainable manner. All crab meat is sourced under the Company’s FDA approved HACCP Plan. Additionally, all suppliers are certified grade A by the BRC and are audited annually to ensure safety and quality.

 

The Company had five suppliers which accounted for approximately 65% of the Company’s total purchases during the year ended December 31, 2020. These five suppliers are located in the United States, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Mexico and the Philippines, which accounted for approximately 93% of the Company’s total purchases during the year. During 2020, the Company purchased inventory from two non-affiliated Indonesian suppliers that made up the balance of 25% of the supply concentration.

 

TOBC has two primary egg suppliers based in Washington State.

 

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Sales, Marketing and Distribution

 

The Company’s products are sold in the United States and Canada. Its primary current source of revenue is importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, Mexico, Malaysia, Sri-Lanka, China, the Philippines and Vietnam and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, and Lubkin’s Coastal Pride, First Choice, Good Stuff, Coastal Pride Fresh, and steelhead salmon produced under the brand name Little Cedar Farms for distribution in Canada.

 

The Company has a sales team based throughout the United States who sells directly to customers, most of whom are in the food service and retail industry, and also manage a network of regional and national brokers that cover both the retail and wholesale segments. The sales team and brokers help to pull the products through the system by creating demand at the end user level and pulling the demand through our distributor customers. The Company sells to retail customers either directly or via distributors that specialize in the retail segment.

 

The Company does not own its own fleet of trucks and utilizes less than truckload freight shipping (“LTL”) national freight carriers to deliver its products to its customers. LTL is used for the transportation of small freight or when freight does not require the use of an entire trailer. When shipping LTL, the Company pays for a portion of a standard truck trailer, and other shippers and their shipments fill the unoccupied space.

 

TOBC steelhead salmon is sold in Canada under the brand name Little Cedar Falls primarily to two distributor/brokers.

 

Customers

 

Our customer base comprises some of the largest companies in the food service and retail industry throughout the United States. We sell our crab meat to our customers through purchase orders. For the year ended December 31, 2020, sales to food distributors and retail and wholesale clubs accounted for 63% of our revenue. The balance of our revenue derived from smaller seafood distributors and value-added processors.

 

The Company had three customers which accounted for approximately 26% of revenue during the year ended December 31, 2020. Outstanding receivables from these customers accounted for approximately 19% of the total accounts receivable as of December 31, 2020. The loss of any major customer could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial position.

 

Competition

 

In general, the international seafood industry is intensely competitive and highly fragmented. We compete with local and overseas manufacturers and importers engaged in similar products.

 

Examples of the Company’s primary competitors in its traditional sustainable seafood businesses are Tri Union Frozen Products, Inc. (Chicken of the Sea Frozen Foods), Phillips Foods, Inc., Harbor Seafood, Inc., Newport International and Twin Tails Seafood Corp.

 

Examples of the Company’s primary competitors in its RAS business are Aquabounty, Atlantic Sapphire, Aquacon, Nordic Aquafarms, Whole Oceans, West Coast Salmon and Pure Salmon.

 

Intellectual Property

 

Our intellectual property is an essential element of our business. We use a combination of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret and other intellectual property laws and confidentiality agreements to protect our intellectual property. Our policy is to seek patent protection in the United States and in certain foreign jurisdictions for our products, processes and other technology where available and when appropriate. We also in-license technology, inventions and improvements we consider important to the development of our business.

 

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In addition to our patents, we also rely upon trade secrets, know-how, trademarks, copyright protection and continuing technological and licensing opportunities to develop and maintain our competitive position. We monitor the activities of our competitors and other third parties with respect to their use of intellectual property. We require our employees to execute confidentiality and non-competition agreements upon commencing employment with us. Despite these safeguards, any of our know-how or trade secrets not protected by a patent could be disclosed to, or independently developed by, a competitor.

 

It is our standard practice to require our employees to sign agreements acknowledging that all inventions, trade secrets, works of authorship, developments and other processes generated by them on our behalf are our property, and assigning to us any ownership in those works. Despite our precautions, it may be possible for third parties to obtain and use without consent intellectual property that we own. Unauthorized use of our intellectual property by third parties, and the expenses incurred in protecting our intellectual property rights, may adversely affect our business.

 

Borrowings under our loan and security agreement with Lighthouse are secured by substantially all of our personal property, including our intellectual property.

 

The following is a list of our patents:

 

Title   Country  

Patent No. OR

Publication No

  Issue Date   Application No.  

Application

Date

POUCH-PACKAGED CRABMEAT PRODUCT AND METHOD   US   2015/0257426 A1       14/205,742   3/12/2014
METHOD FOR PACKAGING CRABMEAT   US   8445046 B2   5/21/2013   13/681,027   11/19/2012
METHOD FOR PACKAGING CRABMEAT   US   8337922 B2   12/25/2012   10/691,480   10/21/2003
METHOD FOR PACKAGING CRABMEAT   EPC   1526091 B1           10/21/2004
    TH   28,256            
    PH   1-2005-000216            
    ID   21261            

 

Our patents expire 20 years from the date of issuance which range from year 2007 to 2015.

 

The following is a list of our registered trademarks and trademarks for which we have filed applications.

 

Mark   Registration No   Registration Date   Application No.   Application Date
AMERICA’S FAVORITE CRABMEAT   2961590   6/7/05   78344059   12/22/03
ECO-FRESH   4525998   5/6/14   77922376   1/28/10
    3858522   10/5/10   77885209   12/3/09
    3818057   7/13/10   77885203   12/3/09
OCEANICA   3711200   11/17/09   77595180   10/17/08
    2419060   1/9/01   75855876   11/19/19
Lubkin’s Coastal Pride   2879531   8/31/04   78289067   8/19/03
Lubkin’s Good Stuff   N/A   N/A   87919629   5/14/18
Lubkin’s First Choice   H/A   N/A   88645685   10/8/19

 

Canadian Intellectual Property Office registered trademarks:

 

Little Cedar Falls – Registration #1766337- Expiration: June 20, 2032
Taste of BC – Registration #1561871 - Expiration: January 31, 2034

 

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Government Regulation

 

Our third-party distribution facilities and our international suppliers are certified in accordance with the HACCP, standards for exporting aquatic products to the United States. The HACCP standards are developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”), pursuant to the FDA’s HACCP regulation, Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, part 123, and are used by the FDA to help ensure food safety and control sanitary standards.

 

Food Safety and Labeling

 

We are subject to extensive regulation, including, among other things, the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, as amended by the Food Safety Modernization Act (“FSMA”), the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder by the FDA. The FSMA was enacted in order to aid the effective prevention of food safety issues in the food supply. This comprehensive and evolving regulatory program impacts how food is grown, packed, processed, shipped and imported into the United States and it governs compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices regulations (“GMPs”). The FDA has finalized seven major rules to implement FSMA, recognizing that ensuring the safety of the food supply is a shared responsibility among many different points in the global supply chain. The FSMA rules are designed to make clear specific actions that must be taken at each of these points to prevent contamination. Some aspects of these laws use a strict liability standard for imposing sanctions on corporate behavior. If we fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations, we may be subject to civil remedies, including fines, injunctions, recalls, or seizures, and criminal sanctions, any of which could impact our results of operations.

 

In addition, the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990 prescribes the format and content of certain information required to appear on the labels of food products.

 

Our operations and products are also subject to state and local regulation, including the registration and licensing of plants, enforcement by state health agencies of various state standards, and the registration and inspection of facilities. Compliance with federal, state and local regulation is costly and time-consuming. Enforcement actions for violations of federal, state, and local regulations may include seizure and condemnation of products, cease and desist orders, injunctions or monetary penalties. We believe that our practices are sufficient to maintain compliance with applicable government regulations.

 

Trade

 

For the purchase of products harvested or manufactured outside of the United States, and for the shipment of products to customers located outside of the United States, we are subject to customs laws regarding the import and export of shipments. Our activities, including working with customs brokers and freight forwarders, are subject to regulation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, part of the Department of Homeland Security.

 

TOBC

 

TOBC’s aquafarms facility in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada with an annual production capacity of approximately 100 tons are licensed under the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Harvests of steelhead salmon are processed as iced HOG fish at locally at a Canadian Food Inspection Agency approved processing facility.

 

Federal Trade Commission

 

We are subject to certain regulations by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Advertising of our products is subject to such regulation pursuant to the Federal Trade Commission Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder. 

Employee Safety Regulations

 

We are subject to certain health and safety regulations, including regulations issued pursuant to the Occupational Safety and Health Act. These regulations require us to comply with certain manufacturing, health, and safety standards to protect our employees from accidents.

 

Anticorruption

 

Because we are organized under the laws of a state and our principal place of business is in the United States, we are considered a “domestic concern” under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”) and are covered by the anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA. The provisions prohibit any domestic concern and any officer, director, employee, or agent, acting on behalf of the domestic concern from paying or authorizing payment of anything of value to (i) influence any act or decision by a foreign official; (ii) induce a foreign official to do or omit to do any act in violation of his/her lawful duty; (iii) secure any improper advantage; or (iv) induce a foreign official to use his/her influence to assist the payor in obtaining or retaining business, or directing business to another person.

 

Environmental Regulation

 

We are subject to a number of federal, state, and local laws and other requirements relating to the protection of the environment and the safety and health of personnel and the public. These requirements relate to a broad range of our activities, including the discharge of pollutants into the air and water; the identification, generation, storage, handling, transportation, disposal, recordkeeping, labeling, and reporting of, and emergency response in connection with, hazardous materials (including asbestos) associated with our operations; noise emissions from our facilities; and safety and health standards, practices, and procedures that apply to the workplace and the operation of our facilities.

 

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Our History

 

We were incorporated on October 17, 2017 in the State of Delaware as a blank check company to be used as a vehicle to pursue a business combination with an unidentified target. In connection with the Merger, we changed our name from “AG Acquisition Group II, Inc.” to “Blue Star Foods Corp.” and succeeded to the business of Keeler & Co.

 

Merger

 

Upon the closing of the Merger, the 500 shares of common stock of Keeler & Co. issued and outstanding immediately prior to the closing of the Merger were converted into 30,000 shares of our common stock. As a result, an aggregate of 15,000,000 shares of our common stock were issued to the Sole Stockholder.

 

At the effective time of the Merger, the Company redeemed an aggregate of 9,250,000 shares of common stock from the pre-Merger stockholders of the Company (the “Pre-Merger Holders”) for cancellation by the Company (the “Share Redemption”) and, as a result, the Pre-Merger Holders retained an aggregate of 750,000 shares of common stock after the Merger, representing a value of $1.5 million. The shares were redeemed in consideration for the direct benefit the Pre-Merger Holders will receive in connection with the consummation of the Merger.

 

Concurrently with the closing of the Merger, we closed a private placement offering (the “Offering”) in which we sold an aggregate of 725 units of our securities (the “Units”) at a purchase price of $1,000 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of $725,000. Each Unit consisted of one share of the Company’s 8% Series A convertible preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Series A Stock”) and a three-year warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase one-half of one share of common stock for every share of common stock that would be received upon conversion of a share of Series A Stock (the “Warrant Shares”), at an exercise price of $2.40. The Series A Stock is convertible into shares (the “Conversion Shares”) of the Company’s common stock, at a conversion rate of $2.00 per share (the “Conversion Rate”). We issued 353,250 Warrant Shares in the Offering, which Warrant Shares are exercisable independently of any conversion of Series A Stock. The net proceeds of the Offering were used by the Company for general corporate purposes. As of June 30, 2021, all of the Series A Stock has been converted to shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

Also, effective upon the closing of the Merger, we issued an aggregate of 688 Units to eleven “accredited investors” (the “Settlement Parties”) for each such individual or entity entering into a settlement and mutual general release agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) with the Company in full and complete settlement and satisfaction and release of claims such Settlement Parties may have against the Company (the “Company Settlement”).

 

Upon the closing of the Merger, options to purchase an aggregate of 104 shares of Keeler & Co.’s common stock at an exercise price of $10,000 per share, which were outstanding immediately prior to the closing of the Merger, were converted into (i) a ten-year immediately exercisable option to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.333 (which option was subsequently terminated unexercised), and (ii) a ten-year option to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00, which vested one-year from the date of grant.

 

In connection with the Merger, each of our executive officers and directors after giving effect to the Merger (the “Restricted Holders”) and each of the Pre-Merger Holders, holding at the closing date of the Merger an aggregate of 750,000 shares of our common stock, entered into lock-up agreements (the “Lock-Up Agreements”), whereby the Restricted Holders are restricted for a period of 18 months and the Pre-Merger Holders are restricted for 12 months, after the Merger (the “Restricted Period”), from sales or dispositions (including pledges) in excess of 50% of all of the common stock held by (or issuable to) them and at a price below $2.20 per share (such restrictions together the “Lock-Up”). Notwithstanding such restrictions, during the Restricted Period (i) the Restricted Holders may transfer up to 10% of their shares to a charitable organization which agrees to be bound by such Lock-Up restrictions and (ii) the Pre-Merger Holders may transfer up to 10% of their shares to a third party which agrees to be bound by such Lock-Up restrictions. From and after the Restricted Period, neither the Restricted Holders nor the Pre-Merger Holders may sell, dispose or otherwise transfer more than one-third of the common stock held by such Holder in any two-month period.

 

Our authorized capital stock currently consists of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, and 5,000,000 shares of the preferred stock, of which 10,000 shares have been designated as Series A Stock. Our common stock is not traded on any exchange. Our common stock has been quoted on the OTC pink sheets under the symbol “BSFC” since February 18, 2020. Currently, there is a limited trading market for our common stock.

 

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Coastal Pride Acquisition

 

On November 26, 2019, Keeler & Co., Inc. (the “Purchaser”) entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the “Coastal Merger Agreement”) with Coastal Pride Company, Inc., a South Carolina corporation, Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC (“Coastal Pride”), a Florida limited liability company and newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of Keeler & Co. (the “Acquisition Subsidiary” and, upon the effective date of the Coastal Merger, the “Surviving Company), and The Walter F. Lubkin, Jr. Irrevocable Trust dated 1/8/03 (the “Trust”), Walter F. Lubkin III (“Lubkin III”), Tracy Lubkin Greco (“Greco”) and John C. Lubkin (“Lubkin”), constituting all of the shareholders of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. immediately prior to the Coastal Merger (collectively, the “Sellers”). Pursuant to the terms of the Coastal Merger Agreement, Coastal Pride Company, Inc. merged with and into the Acquisition Subsidiary, with the Acquisition Subsidiary being the surviving company (the “Coastal Merger”).

 

Coastal Pride is a seafood company, based in Beaufort, South Carolina, that imports pasteurized and fresh crabmeat sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crabmeat throughout North America.

 

Pursuant to the terms of the Coastal Merger Agreement, the following consideration was paid by Keeler & Co.: (i) an aggregate of $394,622 in cash; (ii) a five-year 4% promissory note in the principal amount of $500,000 (the “Lubkin Note), issued by Keeler & Co. to Walter Lubkin Jr. (“Walter Jr.”); (iii) three-year 4% convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $210,000 (collectively, the “Sellers Notes” and together with the Lubkin Note, the “Notes”), issued by Keeler & Co. to Greco, Lubkin III and Lubkin, pro rata to their ownership of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. immediately prior to the Coastal Merger; (iii) 500,000 shares of common stock of the Company, issued to Walter Lubkin, Jr. (the “Walter Jr. Shares”); and (iii) an aggregate of 795,000 shares of common stock of the Company, issued to Greco, Lubkin III and Lubkin, pro rata to their ownership of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. immediately prior to the Coastal Merger (together with the Walter Jr. Shares, the “Consideration Shares”).

 

The Notes are subject to a right of offset against the Sellers’ indemnification obligations as described in the Coastal Merger Agreement and are subordinate and subject to prior payment of all indebtedness of John Keeler under the Loan Agreement with Lighthouse Financial Corp., a North Carolina corporation (“Lighthouse”).

 

Principal and interest under the Lubkin Note are payable quarterly, commencing February 26, 2020, in an amount equal to the lesser of (i) $25,000 and (i) 25% of the Surviving Company’s quarterly earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization.

 

One-sixth of the principal and interest under the Sellers Notes are payable quarterly commencing on August 26, 2021. The Sellers Notes are convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at the Seller’s option, at any time after the first anniversary of the date of the Note, at the rate of one share for each $2.00 of principal and/or interest so converted (the “Conversion Shares”).

 

Keeler & Co. has the right to prepay the Notes in whole or in part at any time without penalty or premium.

 

On April 15, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 16,460 shares of its common stock to the Seller’s in lieu of payment in cash of accrued interest in the aggregate amount of $39,504 under the Sellers’ Notes.

 

At the effective time of the Coastal Merger, the Sellers entered into leak-out agreements (each, a “Leak-Out Agreement”) pursuant to which the Sellers and Walter Jr. may not directly or indirectly pledge, sell, or transfer any of the Consideration Shares or Conversion Shares, or enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers any of the economic consequences of ownership of any such shares for one year from the date of the Coastal Merger. Thereafter, each Seller and Walter Jr. may transfer up to 25% of the aggregate of the Consideration Shares and the Conversion Shares held by such person, in each successive six-month period.

 

In connection with the Coastal Merger, Lubkin III and Greco agreed to serve as president and chief financial officer, respectively, of the Surviving Company.

 

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ACF Finco I, LP (“ACF”) and Keeler & Co. were parties to a loan and security agreement, originally dated as of August 31, 2016. As a condition to ACF’s waiver of certain events of default under the Loan Agreement, and consent to the formation of the Acquisition Subsidiary and the Coastal Merger, the Acquisition Subsidiary and Keeler & Co. entered into the Joinder and Seventh Amendment to the Loan Agreement which resulted, among other things, in Coastal Pride becoming an additional borrower under the Loan Agreement. On March 31, 2021, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into a loan and security agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse Financial Corp., a North Carolina corporation (“Lighthouse”), and the loan with ACF was extinguished.

 

Taste of BC Aquafarms Acquisition

 

On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Taste of BC Aquafarms Inc., a corporation formed under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, Canada (“TOBC”), and Steve Atkinson and Janet Atkinson (the “Sellers”), the owners of all of the capital stock of TOBC (the “TOBC Shares”), pursuant to which the Company acquired all of the TOBC Shares from the Sellers (the “Acquisition”) for an aggregate purchase price of CAD$4,000,000 for: (i) an aggregate of CAD$1,000,000 in cash (with each Seller receiving a pro rata amount based upon the total number of TOBC Shares held by such Seller); (ii) promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of CAD$200,000 (the “Notes”) with the principal amount of each Seller’s Note based on such Seller’s pro rata portion of the TOBC Shares); and (iii) 987,741 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$2,800,000 of shares based on USD$2.30 per share) with each Seller receiving a pro rata portion of such shares based upon the total number of TOBC Shares held by such Seller.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Purchase Agreement was amended (the “Amendment”), to increase the Purchase Price up to an aggregate of CAD$5,000,000 and the Acquisition closed. Pursuant to the Amendment, on August 3, 2021, an aggregate of 344,957 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$1,000,000 of additional shares calculated at USD$2.30 per share) was put in escrow until the 24-month anniversary of the closing. If, within 24 months of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of at least CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive all of the escrowed shares. If, as of the 24-month anniversary of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of less than CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive a prorated number of the escrowed shares based on the actual cumulative revenue of TOBC as of such date.

 

The Purchase Price is subject to adjustment based upon the amount of TOBC’s working capital on the Closing Date, as determined in accordance with the Purchase Agreement within 60 days after the closing.

 

In addition to the foregoing consideration, at the time of the Closing, the Company provided CAD$488,334 to TOBC for the extinguishment of certain of TOBC’s existing debt.

 

All of the shares received by the Sellers will be subject to a leak-out restriction commencing on the date of issuance, as follows: (i) up to 25% may be sold after 12 months; (ii) up to 50% may be sold after 18 months; (iii) up to 75% may be sold after 24 months; and (iv) up to 100% may be sold after 30 months.

 

The Notes bear no interest and have a maturity date of November 30, 2021. The Company has the right to prepay amounts due under the Notes in whole or in part at any time without penalty or premium. Repayment of the amounts due under the Notes is secured by a guarantee and a general security agreement creating a security interest over the assets of TOBC.

 

In connection with the Acquisition, the Sellers entered into four-year confidentiality, non-competition and non-solicitation agreements with the Company. 

 

Research and Development

 

We did not incur any research and development costs during 2020 and 2019.

 

Employees

 

As of October 25, 2021, we had eighteen full time employees and no part-time employees. We believe that our future success will depend, in part, on our continued ability to attract, hire and retain qualified personnel.

 

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

 

We leased approximately 16,800 square feet of office/warehouse space for our executive offices and distribution facility for $16,916 per month from John Keeler Real Estate Holding, Inc. (“Keeler Real Estate”), a corporation owned by a trust for each of John Keeler III, Andrea Keeler and Sarah Keeler, each of whom is a child of our Executive Chairman, John Keeler. On December 31, 2020, this facility was sold to an unrelated third-party purchaser and the lease was terminated. In connection with the sale, the Company retained approximately 4,756 square feet of such space, rent-free for 12 months from the sale. We believe this space will be adequate for our immediate and near-term needs. Coastal Pride leases 1,600 square feet of office space in Beaufort, South Carolina under a lease that expires in 2024. TOBC’s facilities are on land leased to TOBC for approximately $3,100 per month plus taxes from Steve and Janet Atkinson, the former TOBC owners that expires December 2021.

 

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

There are no material pending legal proceedings to which we are a party or in which any director, officer or affiliate of ours, any owner of record or beneficially of more than 5% of any class of our voting securities, or security holder is a party adverse to us or has a material interest adverse to us.

 

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CAPITALIZATION

 

The following table sets forth our consolidated cash and cash equivalents and capitalization as of June 30, 2021. Such information is set forth on the following basis:

 

  an actual basis;
  an as adjusted basis, giving effect to the sale of the shares in this offering at the assumed public offering price of $5.00 per share, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other estimated offering expenses payable by us and excluding any exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

The as adjusted information below is illustrative only and our capitalization following the completion of this offering will be adjusted based on the actual public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. You should read this table together with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited and unaudited consolidated financial statements and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

    As of
June 30, 2021
 
    Actual     As Adjusted(1)  
    (Unaudited)        
             
Cash   $ 1,630,732     $ 5,175,732  
Total assets     11,864,720       15,409,720  
Total liabilities     6,469,295       6,469,295  
Series A 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021           0  
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 23,119,041 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021,     2,315       2,395  
Additional paid-in capital     19,846,182       23,391,102  
Accumulated other comprehensive gain     936       936  
Accumulated (deficit)     (14,454,008 )     (14,454,008 )
Total stockholders’ equity     5,395,425       8,940,425  
Capitalization   $ 6,361,289     $ 9,906,289  

 

(1) The number of shares of common stock outstanding is based on 23,119,041 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021 and excludes an aggregate of 6,062,417 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants.

 

Except as otherwise indicated herein, all information in this prospectus reflects or assumes:

 

  no exercise of the outstanding options or warrants described above; and
     
  no exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option.

 

DILUTION

 

If you invest in our common stock, your interest will be diluted immediately to the extent of the difference between the public offering price per share you will pay in this offering and the adjusted net tangible book value per share of our common stock after this offering.

 

The historical net tangible book value of our common stock as of June 30, 2021 was approximately $631,000, or $0.03 per share based upon 23,119,041 shares of common stock outstanding on such date. Historical net tangible book value per share represents the amount of our total tangible assets reduced by the amount of our total liabilities, divided by the total number of shares of common stock outstanding.

 

Following this offering, our adjusted net tangible book value of our common stock will be $0.17 per share. Adjusted net tangible book value per share represents adjusted net tangible book value divided by the total number of shares outstanding after giving effect to the sale of the shares in this offering at the assumed public offering price of $5.00 per share, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other estimated offering expenses payable by us. This represents an immediate increase in as adjusted net tangible book value of $0.14 per share to existing stockholders and an immediate dilution of $0.14 per share to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering at the assumed public offering price.

 

The following table illustrates this dilution on a per share basis to new investors:

 

    June 30, 2021     Pro Forma  
Assumed public offering price per share           $ 5.00  
Net tangible book value per share as of June 30, 2021   $ 0.03     $ 0.03  
Increase in net tangible book value per share attributable to this offering   $ 0.14     $ 0.14  
As adjusted net tangible book value per share after giving effect to this offering           $ 0.17  
Dilution in net tangible book value per share to purchasers in this offering           $ 0.14  

 

If the underwriters’ over-allotment option is exercised in full, our adjusted net tangible book value following the offering will be $0.20 per share, and the dilution to investors purchasing shares of common stock in this offering will be $0.17 per share.

 

The number of shares of common stock outstanding is based on 23,119,041 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021 and excludes an aggregate of 6,062,417 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants.

 

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

 

The following discussion of the financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes to those statements appearing in this prospectus. Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this prospectus, including information with respect to our plans and strategy for our business, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. You should read the “Risk Factors” section of this prospectus for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in the following discussion and analysis. The various sections of this discussion contain forward-looking statements, all of which are based on our current expectations and could be affected by the uncertainties and risk factors described throughout this prospectus as well as other matters over which we have no control. See “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.” Our actual results may differ materially. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this prospectus.

 

Overview

 

We are an international seafood company that imports, packages and sells refrigerated pasteurized crab meat, and other premium seafood products. Our current source of revenue is from importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh, and steelhead salmon produced under the brand name Little Cedar Farms for distribution in Canada. The crab meat which we import is processed in 13 plants throughout Southeast Asia. Our suppliers are primarily via co-packing relationships, including two affiliated suppliers. We sell primarily to food service distributors. We also sell our products to wholesalers, retail establishments and seafood distributors.

 

COVID-19

 

The current COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected our business operations, including disruptions and restrictions on our ability to travel or to distribute our seafood products, as well as temporary closures of our facilities. Any such disruption or delay may impact our sales and operating results. In addition, COVID-19 has resulted in a widespread health crisis that adversely affected the economies and financial markets of many other countries. As a result of COVID-19, the Company has experienced a significant decrease in revenue for the year ended December 31, 2020 and continues to have losses in the six months ended June 30, 2021 although such losses have decreased in comparison to the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

As a result of the business interruption experienced to date, management has taken steps to reduce expenses across all areas of its operations, including payroll, marketing, sales and warehousing expenses. The extent to which we are affected by COVID-19 will largely depend on future developments and restrictions which may disrupt interactions with customers, suppliers, staff and advisors which cannot be accurately predicted, including the duration and scope of the pandemic, governmental and business responses to the pandemic and the impact on the global economy, our customers’ demand for our products, and our ability to provide our products. We continue to monitor the effects of the pandemic on our business.

 

We qualify as an “emerging growth company” under the JOBS Act. As a result, we are permitted to, and intend to, rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements. For so long as we are an emerging growth company, we will not be required to:

 

- have an auditor report on our internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act;
- comply with any requirement that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to the auditor’s report providing additional information about the audit and the financial statements (i.e., an auditor discussion and analysis);
- submit certain executive compensation matters to shareholder advisory votes, such as “say-on-pay” and “say-on-frequency;” and
- disclose certain executive compensation related items such as the correlation between executive compensation and performance and comparisons of the CEO’s compensation to median employee compensation.

 

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In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also 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. In other words, 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 take advantage of the benefits of this extended transition period. Our financial statements may therefore not be comparable to those of companies that comply with such new or revised accounting standards.

 

We will remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years, or until the earliest of (i) the last day of the first fiscal year in which our total annual gross revenues exceed $1 billion, (ii) the date that we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which would occur if the market value of our shares of common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of the last business day of our most recently completed second fiscal quarter or (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt during the preceding three year period.

 

Recent Developments

 

Board of Directors

 

On March 29, 2021, the board of directors increased the size of the Company’s Board from two to five members and appointed Jeffrey J. Guzy, Timothy McLellan and Trond Ringstad as directors, effective April 12, 2021, to fill the vacancies created by such increase.

 

Taste of BC Aquafarms

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company consummated the Acquisition of TOBC, a land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) salmon farming operation, based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. As a result of the Acquisition, Taste of BC became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations of the Company is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, the audited financial statements and related notes elsewhere in prospectus.

 

Results of Operations

 

Year Ended December 31, 2020 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2019

 

The selected historical financial information presented below is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

Net Sales. Revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 decreased 40.8% to $14,111,368 as compared to $23,829,463 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 as a result of a decrease in poundage sold due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, primarily affecting the first half of 2020.

 

Cost of Goods Sold. Cost of goods sold for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 decreased to $12,623,576 as compared to $20,610,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The decrease is primarily attributable to the revenue decline.

 

Gross Profit. Gross profit for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 decreased to $1,487,792 as compared to gross profit of $3,219,463 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This decrease is attributable to a reduction in poundage sold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the reduction in the average selling price of the Company’s product, while the Company’s inventory cost of product sold during the period did not fully reflect the drop in value of the commodity.

 

Gross Profit Margin. Gross profit margin for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 decreased to 10.5% as compared to 13.5% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This reduction is attributable to revenue and the gross profit decline.

 

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Commissions Expenses. Commissions expenses decreased from $106,671 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 to $96,594 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020. The decrease is attributable to lower commissionable revenues.

 

Salaries and Wages Expense. Salaries and wages decreased to $1,286,879 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $3,897,541 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This decrease is primarily attributable to the strategic reduction in salaries and stock-based compensation for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020.

 

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $268,341 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $215,089 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The increase is attributable to purchases of fixed assets and corresponding depreciation recognized during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020.

 

Other Operating Expense. Other operating expenses decreased 44.5% to $1,639,484 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $2,953,069 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The decrease is attributable the Company’s overhead reduction efforts in all fixed expenses related to its operations.

 

Other Income. Other income increased to $891,667 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 from $0 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This increase is primarily attributable to the payroll protection program loan forgiveness obtained from US Century Bank, sale of equipment and tariff and prepaid tax reimbursements.

 

Forbearance Fee Expense (Non-Cash). Forbearance fee expense increased to $2,655,292 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 from $0 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, which represents a one-time, non-cash expense related to the issuance of common stock as a forbearance fee.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased to $870,303 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $1,068,796 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. This decrease is attributable to a decrease in the aggregate principal amount of loans outstanding to $8,158,106 as of December 31, 2020 from $11,510,968 as of December 31, 2019.

 

Net Loss. The Company had a net loss of $4,437,434 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the net loss of $5,021,703 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The decrease in net loss is primarily attributable to reduction in salaries and wages, interest and other operating expenses. Net loss as of December 31, 2020 includes a non-cash expense related to a forbearance fee of $2,655,292 and not considering this expense, net loss would have decreased to $1,782,142 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020.

 

Cash Provided by Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 was $4,575,575 as compared to cash provided of $1,577,164 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, representing an increase of $2,998,411. The increase is primarily attributable to a decrease in the net loss of $584,269 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020. Cash generated from Accounts Receivable for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 decreased $1,574,929 as compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, while cash generated from Inventory increased $4,219,232 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. Cash used in Accounts Payable activities increased $1,415,648 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 as compared to the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The Company used $14,049 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 in advances from Bacolod as compared to usage of $146,316 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

 

Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities. Cash provided by investing activities for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 was $343,237 as compared to $269,705 cash used in investing activities for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The Company received $407,198 in cash proceeds from the sale of equipment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020.

 

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Cash Used in Financing Activities. Cash used in financing activities for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 was $4,800,635 as compared to cash used in financing activities of $1,509,014 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. The primary use of cash was a reduction in the outstanding line of credit with ACF of $5,112,061 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, as compared to a decrease of $1,347,648 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

 

The selected historical financial information presented below is derived from our unaudited consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020.

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020

 

Net Revenue. Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2021 decreased 25.7% to $2,129,389 as compared to $2,865,103 for the three months ended June 30, 2020 as a result of a decrease in poundage sold due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Cost of Goods Sold. Cost of goods sold for the three months ended June 30, 2021 decreased to $1,559,490 as compared to $2,882,541 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to the revenue decline.

 

Gross Profit. Gross profit margin for the three months ended June 30, 2021 increased to $569,899 as compared to the gross loss of $17,438 in the three months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is attributable to higher market prices and lower cost of goods sold in comparison with the three months ended June 30, 2020.

 

Commissions Expense. Commissions expense decreased to $13,606 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 from $25,534 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is due to lower commissionable revenues.

 

Salaries and Wages Expense. Salaries and wages expense decreased to $228,859 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to $241,072 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is mainly attributable to a strategic reduction in salaries and stock-based compensation.

 

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased to $55,911 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to $153,195 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to lower fixed assets and lower corresponding depreciation recognized.

 

Other Operating Expense. Other operating expense increased to $638,585 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 from $158,749 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is mainly attributable to legal and professional fees and stock compensation expense associated with the TOBC acquisition and a Nasdaq uplisting application.

 

Other Income. Other income increased for the three months ended June 30, 2021 to $28,672 from $0 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is mainly attributable to collections made by Coastal Pride for debt existing prior to the acquisition of Coastal Pride by the Company.

 

Forbearance Fee Expense (Non-Cash). Forbearance fee expense decreased to $0 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 from $2,655,292 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is a result of a one-time, non-cash expense related to the issuance of common stock for a forbearance fee in connection with the Kenar Note in 2020.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased to $98,737 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 from $239,653 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to a decrease in loans and line of credit outstanding to $4,141,479 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 from $8,963,605 for the three months ended June 30, 2020.

 

Net Loss. Net loss was $437,127 for the three months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to a net loss of $3,490,933 for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease in net loss is primarily attributable to reductions of depreciation and amortization, interest and other expenses.

 

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Six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020

 

Net Revenue. Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2021 decreased 37.9% to $4,615,280 as compared to $7,436,717 for the six months ended June 30, 2020 as a result of a decrease in poundage sold due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Cost of Goods Sold. Cost of goods sold for the six months ended June 30, 2021 decreased to $3,742,602 as compared to $7,030,939 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to the revenue decline.

 

Gross Profit. Gross profit margin for the six months ended June 30, 2021 increased to $872,678 as compared to $405,778 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is attributable to higher market prices and lower cost of goods sold in comparison to the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

Commissions Expense. Commissions expense decreased to $18,400 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 from $92,363 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is due to lower commissionable revenues.

 

Salaries and Wages Expense. Salaries and wages expense decreased to $609,455 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to $650,253 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is mainly attributable to a strategic reduction in salaries and stock-based compensation.

 

Depreciation and Amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased to $99,990 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to $230,960 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to lower fixed assets and lower corresponding depreciation recognized.

 

Other Operating Expense. Other operating expense increased to $955,983 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 from $605,182 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is mainly attributable to legal and professional fees and stock compensation expense associated with the TOBC acquisition and a Nasdaq uplisting application.

 

Other Income. Other income increased for the six months ended June 30, 2021 to $105,190 from $0 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This increase is mainly attributable to collections made by Coastal Pride for debt existing prior to the acquisition of Coastal Pride by the Company.

 

Forbearance Fee Expense (Non-Cash). Forbearance fee expense (non-cash) decreased to $0 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 from $2,655,292 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. This decrease is the result of a one-time, non-cash expense related to the issuance of common stock for a forbearance fee in connection with the Kenar Note in 2020.

 

Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased to $209,271 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 from $516,308 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is attributable to a decrease in loans and line of credit outstanding to $4,476,878 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 from $9,928,084 for the six months ended June 30, 2020.

 

Net Loss. Net loss was $915,231 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to $4,344,580 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease in net loss is primarily attributable to reductions of depreciation and amortization, interest and other expenses.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The Company had cash of $1,630,732 as of June 30, 2021. On June 30, 2021, the Company had a working capital deficit of $1,128,803, including $1,299,712 in stockholder loans that are subordinated to its working capital line of credit, and the Company’s primary sources of liquidity consisted of inventory of $582,762 and accounts receivable of $610,355.

 

The Company has historically financed its operations through the cash flow generated from operations, capital investment, notes payable and a working capital line of credit.

 

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The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions to the global financial markets. The full impact of the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, is highly uncertain and subject to change. The Company is not able to estimate the possible continuing effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on its operations or financial condition for the next 12 months.

 

Cash Provided by Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities during the six months ended June 30, 2021 was $311,707 as compared to cash provided by operating activities of $3,105,786 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The decrease is primarily attributable to reductions in inventory of $2,284,228, receivables of $236,122 and other current liabilities of $205,291 for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Cash Utilized in Investing Activities. Cash used for investing activities for the six months ended June 30, 2021 was $790,593 as compared to cash used for investing activities of $47,179 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The increase was attributable to the acquisition of TOBC for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Cash Provided by (Utilized in) Financing Activities. Cash provided by financing activities for the six months ended June 30, 2021 was $1,770,995 as compared to cash utilized in financing activities of $3,225,404 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. Reduction of the Company’s revolving working capital line of credit of $1,173,949 was partially offset by the proceeds from the PPP loan of $371,944 for the six months ended June 30, 2021, compared to loan payment and loan costs paid on the working capital line of credit of $3,165,404 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. As of June 30, 2021, the Company had $2,573,000 of proceeds from a common stock private offering.

 

Working Capital Line of Credit

 

Keeler & Co. entered into a $14,000,000 revolving line of credit with ACF on August 31, 2016, the proceeds of which were used to pay off the prior line of credit, pay new loan costs of approximately $309,000 and provide additional working capital to Keeler & Co. This facility was amended on November 18, 2016, June 19, 2017, October 16, 2017, September 19, 2018, November 8, 2018, July 29, 2019, November 26, 2019 and May 7, 2020 and was secured by all of the assets of Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride. The interest rate under the line of credit was equal to the greater of (i) the 3-month LIBOR rate plus 9.25%, (ii) the prime rate plus 6.0%, and (iii) a fixed rate of 6.5%. As of December 31, 2020, the interest rate was 12.48%.

 

On March 31, 2021, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into a loan and security agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement, Lighthouse made available to Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride (together, the “Borrowers”) a $5,000,000 revolving line of credit for a term of thirty-six months, renewable annually for one-year periods thereafter. Amounts due under the line of credit are represented by a revolving credit note issued to Lighthouse by the Borrowers.

 

The advance rate of the revolving line of credit is 85% with respect to eligible accounts receivable and the lower of 60% of the Borrowers’ eligible inventory, or 80% of the net orderly liquidation value, subject to an inventory sublimit of $2,500,000. The inventory portion of the loan will never exceed 50% of the outstanding balance. Interest on the line of credit is the prime rate (with a floor of 3.25%), plus 3.75%. The Borrowers will pay Lighthouse a facility fee of $50,000 in three instalments of $16,667 in March, April and May 2021 and will pay an additional facility fee of $25,000 on each anniversary of March 31, 2021.

 

The line of credit is secured by a first priority security interest on all the assets of each Borrower. Pursuant to the terms of a guaranty agreement, the Company guaranteed the obligations of the Borrowers under the note and John Keeler, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, provided a personal guaranty of up to $1,000,000 to Lighthouse.

 

The Borrowers utilized $784,450 of the Lighthouse revolving line of credit to repay all the outstanding indebtedness owed to the ACF as of March 31, 2021. As a result, all obligations owed to ACF were satisfied and the loan agreement with ACF was terminated. The outstanding balance owed to Lighthouse as of June 30, 2021 amounted to $631,958.

 

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John Keeler Promissory Notes

 

From January 2006 through May 2017, Keeler & Co issued 6% demand promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $2,910,000 to John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman. As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, approximately $1,299,000 of principal remains outstanding and approximately $39,100 and $174,000 of interest was paid under the notes, respectively. These notes are subordinated to the Lighthouse note. After satisfaction of the terms of the subordination, the Company may prepay the notes at any time first against interest due thereunder. If an event of default occurs under the notes, interest will accrue at 18% per annum and if not paid within 10 days of payment becoming due, the holder of the note is entitled to a late fee of 5% of the amount of payment not timely made.

 

Kenar Note

 

On March 26, 2019, the Company issued a four-month promissory note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Kenar Note”) to Kenar Overseas Corp., a company registered in Panama (“Kenar”). The note bears interest at the rate of 18% per annum during the initial four months which rate will increase to 24% during any extension thereof. The note may be prepaid in whole or in part without penalty. John Keeler, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman pledged 5,000,000 shares of common stock to secure the Company’s obligations under the note. The Kenar Note matured on July 26, 2019 and was extended on a month-to-month basis and on November 19, 2019, the Kenar Note was extended to March 31, 2020 on the same terms and conditions.

 

On May 21, 2020, the Kenar Note was amended to (i) extend the maturity date to March 31, 2021, (ii) provide that the Company use one-third of any capital raise from the sale of its equity to reduce the outstanding principal under the Kenar Note, (iii) set the interest rate at 18% per annum, payable monthly commencing October 1, 2020, and (iv) reduce the number of pledged shares by Mr. Keeler to 4,000,000. As consideration therefor, the Company issued 1,021,266 shares of Common Stock to Kenar on May 27, 2020. The outstanding principal amount of the note on March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was $872,500. On April 28, 2021, the Kenar Note was further amended to extend the maturity date to May 31, 2021.

 

On July 6, 2021, the Company entered into a note payoff indemnity agreement with Kenar pursuant to which the Company paid Kenar $918,539 of principal and accrued interest in full satisfaction of the amounts due to Kenar under the Second Loan Amendment, dated April 26, 2021, between the Company and Kenar, and the Kenar Note was extinguished, and the shares pledged by Mr. Keeler were released.

 

Lobo Note

 

On April 2, 2019, the Company issued a four-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 (the “Lobo Note”) to Lobo Holdings, LLLP, a stockholder of the Company (“Lobo”). The Lobo Note bears interest at the rate of 18% per annum. The Lobo Note may be prepaid in whole or in part without penalty. John Keeler, the Company’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, pledged 1,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company to secure the Company’s obligations under the Lobo Note. The Lobo Note matured on August 2, 2019 and was extended through December 2, 2019 on the same terms and conditions. On November 15, 2019, the Company paid off the Lobo Note with the issuance to Lobo of an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrued interest at the rate of 15% per annum and matured on March 31, 2020. On April 1, 2020, the Company paid off the November 15, 2019 Lobo Note with the issuance to Lobo of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which accrued interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matured on October 1, 2020. On October 1, 2020, the Company paid off the April 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a three-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matured on December 31, 2020. On January 1, 2021, the Company paid off the October 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on June 30, 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Company paid off the January 1, 2021 note with the issuance of a three-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrued interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on September 30, 2021.

 

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Paycheck Protection Program Loan

 

On March 2, 2021, the Company received proceeds of $371,944 and issued an unsecured promissory note to US Century in the principal amount of $371,944 in connection with a PPP Loan. The note accrues interest at 1.0% per annum, matures five years from the date of issuance and is fully guaranteed by the SBA and may be forgiven provided certain criteria are met. The Company may apply for forgiveness after August 17, 2021 and may be required to make monthly payments of approximately $8,500 beginning June 2, 2022.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We currently have no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Valuation of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill and other intangible assets include the cost of the acquired business in excess of the fair value of the tangible net assets recorded in connection with an acquisition. Other intangible assets include customer relationships, non-compete agreements, and trademarks. For goodwill, our policy is to assess for impairment at year-end. For other intangible assets with definite lives, we assess for impairment only if events occur that indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

 

Annually, we assess the recoverability of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles by determining whether the fair values exceed the carrying values of these assets. Our testing may be performed utilizing either a qualitative or quantitative assessment; however, if a qualitative assessment is performed and we determine that the fair value of a reporting unit is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50 percent) to be less than its carrying amount, a quantitative test is performed.

 

When using a quantitative test, we arrive at our estimates of fair value using a discounted cash flow analysis. Our assessment for impairment of goodwill and definitive-lived intangible assets compared the fair value of the reporting unit to the corresponding carrying value. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. Based on our year-end 2020 annual impairment analysis for goodwill and intangibles assets, we concluded that it is more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill and intangible assets exceeded its carrying value. No impairment was recorded for goodwill and intangible assets.

 

The fair value conclusions as of December 31, 2020 are highly sensitive to changes in the assumptions used in the income approach, which include forecasted revenues, perpetual growth rates, among others, all of which require significant judgments by management.

 

Fair value of the reporting unit is therefore determined using significant unobservable inputs, or level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The Company has used recent historical performance, current forecasted financial information, and broad-based industry and economic statistics as a basis to estimate the key assumptions utilized in the forecasted cash flow model. These key assumptions are inherently uncertain and require a high degree of estimation and judgment and are subject to change based on future changes, industry and global economic and geo-political conditions, and the timing and success of the implementation of current strategic initiatives. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on estimated future cash flows is uncertain and will largely depend on the outcome of future events, which could result in goodwill impairments going forward.

 

Variable Interest Entity

 

Under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation, when a reporting entity is the primary beneficiary of an entity that is a variable interest entity (“VIE”), as defined in ASC 810, the VIE must be consolidated into the financial statements of the reporting entity. The determination of which owner is the primary beneficiary of a VIE requires management to make significant estimates and judgments about the rights, obligations, and economic interests of each interest holder in the VIE.

 

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The Company evaluates its interests in VIE’s on an ongoing basis and consolidates any VIE in which it has a controlling financial interest and is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. A controlling financial interest has both of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance; and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to it or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE.

 

Effective April 1, 2014, the Company’s stockholder was transferred the controlling interest of Strike the Gold Foods, Ltd. (“Strike”), a related party entity which holds the Company’s inventory on consignment in United Kingdom (see Note 3). The Company evaluated its interest in Strike and determined that Strike is a VIE due to the Company’s implicit interest in Strike and the fact that Strike and the Company were under common control after the transfer of the controlling interest. Moreover, the Company determined that it is the primary beneficiary of Strike due to the fact that the Company had both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Strike and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from Strike. Therefore, the Company consolidated Strike in its financial statements as of April 1, 2014, the effective date of the controlling interest transfer.

 

During the third quarter of 2020, the Company determined that Strike was no longer a VIE because there was a verbal agreement with Strike that terminated the original agreement to hold the inventory on consignment and Strike has not engaged in transactions with the Company or its subsidiaries in 2020.

 

The Company also evaluated its interest in three related party entities that are under common control with the Company, Bacolod, Bicol Blue Star Export Co. (“Bicol”) and John Keeler Real Estate Holding (“JK Real Estate”), in light of ASC 810. The Company purchased inventory from Bacolod, an exporter of pasteurized crab meat out of the Philippines. The Company purchased inventory, via Bacolod, from Bicol. The Company leased its office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate, a landlord that is a related party through common family beneficial ownership until December 31, 2020.

 

The Company determined that Bacolod and Bicol are not VIE’s as they do not meet the criteria to be considered a VIE per ASC 810. The Company does not directly or indirectly absorb any variability of Bacolod or Bicol. The relationship between the Company and Bacolod and Bicol is strictly a supplier/customer relationship. Moreover, Bacolod and Bicol have other customers besides the Company which will allow them to sustain their operations from selling their inventory to their other customers. As the Company concluded that Bacolod and Bicol are not VIEs and the Company is not deemed their primary beneficiary, Bacolod or Bicol is not consolidated with the Company’s financial statements.

 

The Company no longer leases its office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate and no longer guarantees the mortgage on the facility. On December 31, 2020, this facility was sold to an unrelated third-party purchaser and the lease was terminated.

 

Inventories

 

Substantially all of the Company’s inventory consists of packaged crab meat located at the Company’s warehouse facility as well as public cold storage facilities and merchandise in transit from suppliers. The cost of inventory is primarily determined using the specific identification method. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using the first-in, first-out method.

 

Merchandise is purchased cost and freight shipping point and becomes the Company’s asset and liability upon leaving the suppliers’ warehouse. The Company had in-transit inventory of approximately $522,000 and $1,958,000 as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

 

The Company periodically reviews the value of items in inventory and records an allowance to reduce the carrying value of inventory to the lower of cost or market based on its assessment of market conditions, inventory turnover and current stock levels. Inventory write-downs are charged to cost of goods sold. The Company recorded an inventory allowance of approximately $71,400 for the year ended December 31, 2020 as compared to $40,800 for the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

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Advances to Suppliers and Related Party

 

In the normal course of business, the Company may advance payments to its suppliers, inclusive of Bacolod Blue Star Export Corp. (“Bacolod”), a related party based in the Philippines. These advances are in the form of prepayments for products that will ship within a short window of time. In the event that it becomes necessary for the Company to return products or adjust for quality issues, the Company is issued a credit by the vendor in the normal course of business and these credits are also reflected against future shipments.

 

As of December 31, 2020, and December 31, 2019, the balance due from Bacolod for future shipments was approximately $1,300,000 and $1,286,000, respectively. No new purchases have been made from Bacolod since November 2020. Cost of revenue related to inventories purchased from Bacolod represented approximately $1,280,000 and $9,531,000 of total cost of revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

As of June 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, the balance due from the related party for future shipments was approximately $1,300,000. No new purchases have been made from Bacolod during the six months ended June 30, 2021. A permits renewal payment of $8,000 was made to Bacolod during the three months ended June 30, 2021. Cost of revenue related to inventories purchased from Bacolod represented approximately $126 and $238,000 of total cost of revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Effective with the January 1, 2018 adoption of ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” and the associated ASUs (collectively, “Topic 606”), the Company recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration which the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The Company’s source of revenue is from importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh. We sell primarily to food service distributors. We also sell our products to wholesalers, retail establishments and seafood distributors.

 

To determine revenue recognition for the arrangements that the Company determines are within the scope of Topic 606, the Company performs the following five steps: (1) identify the contract(s) with a customer by receipt of purchase orders and confirmations sent by the Company which includes a required line of credit approval process, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract which includes shipment of goods to the customer FOB shipping point or destination, (3) determine the transaction price which initiates with the purchase order received from the customer and confirmation sent by the Company and will include discounts and allowances by customer if any, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract which is the shipment of the goods to the customer and transaction price determined in step 3 above and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation which is when the Company transfers control of the goods to the customers by shipment or delivery of the products.

 

The Company elected an accounting policy to treat shipping and handling activities as fulfillment activities. Consideration payable to a customer is recorded as a reduction of the arrangement’s transaction price, thereby reducing the amount of revenue recognized, unless the payment is for distinct goods or services received from the customer.

 

Leases

 

On January 1, 2019, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification 842 and all the related amendments using the modified retrospective method. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the new lease standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the lease accounting standard in effect for those periods.

 

The new lease standard requires all leases to be reported on the balance sheet as right-of-use assets and lease obligations. We elected the practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance of the new standard that retained the lease classification and initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to adoption of the standard. We did not reassess whether any contracts entered into prior to adoption are leases or contain leases.

 

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We categorize leases with contractual terms longer than twelve months as either operating or finance. Finance leases are generally those leases that would allow us to substantially utilize or pay for the entire asset over its estimated life. Assets acquired under finance leases are recorded in property and equipment, net. All other leases are categorized as operating leases. We did not have any finance leases as of June 30, 2021. Our leases generally have terms that range from three years for equipment and six to seven years for property. We elected the accounting policy to include both the lease and non-lease components of our agreements as a single component and account for them as a lease.

 

Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the fixed lease payments using a discount rate based on similarly secured borrowings available to us. Lease assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives, plus any direct costs from executing the leases. Lease assets are tested for impairment in the same manner as long-lived assets used in operations. Leasehold improvements are capitalized at cost and amortized over the lesser of their expected useful life or the lease term.

 

When we have the option to extend the lease term, terminate the lease before the contractual expiration date, or purchase the leased asset, and it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option, we consider these options in determining the classification and measurement of the lease. Costs associated with operating lease assets are recognized on a straight-line basis within operating expenses over the term of the lease.

 

The table below presents the lease-related assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheets.

 

   

December 31, 2020

 
Assets        
Operating lease assets   $ 99,472  
         
Liabilities        
Current   $ 29,337  
Operating lease liabilities        
Noncurrent        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 69,844  

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

 

   

Twelve Months Ended

December 31, 2020

 
       
Cash used in operating activities:        
Operating leases   $ 156,582  
ROU assets recognized in exchange for lease obligations:        
Operating leases   $ 28,137  

 

The table below presents the remaining lease term and discount rates for operating leases.

 

    December 31, 2020  
Weighted-average remaining lease term        
Operating leases     3.39 years  
Weighted-average discount rate        
Operating leases     4.3 %

 

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Maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020, were as follows:

 

    Operating Leases  
       
2021     33,552  
2022     33,552  
2023     26,474  
2024     15,060  
2025     -  
Thereafter     -  
Total lease payments     108,638  
Less: amount of lease payments representing interest     (9,457 )
Present value of future minimum lease payments   $ 99,181  
Less: current obligations under leases   $ (29,337 )
Non-current obligations   $ 69,844  

 

The table below presents the lease-related assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheets.

 

   

June 30, 2021

 
Assets        
Operating lease assets   $ 85,300  
         
Liabilities        
Current        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 29,960  
Noncurrent        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 54,976  

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

 

   

Six Months Ended

June 30, 2021

 
       
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:        
Operating cash flows from operating leases   $ 14,245  
ROU assets recognized in exchange for lease obligations:        
Operating leases   $ -  

 

The table below presents the remaining lease term and discount rates for operating leases.

 

    June 30, 2021  
Weighted-average remaining lease term        
Operating leases     2.92 years  
Weighted-average discount rate        
Operating leases     4.3 %

 

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Maturities of lease liabilities as of June 30, 2021, were as follows:

 

    Operating Leases  
       
2021 (six months remaining)     16,776  
2022     33,552  
2023     26,474  
2024     15,060  
2025     -  
Thereafter     -  
Total lease payments     91,862  
Less: amount of lease payments representing interest     (6,926 )
Present value of future minimum lease payments   $ 84,936  
Less: current obligations under leases   $ (29,960 )
Non-current obligations   $ 54,976  

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

 

ASU 2019-12 Income Taxes (Topic 740)

 

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), which is intended to simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 removes certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 and also clarifies and amends existing guidance to improve consistent application. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosure.

 

ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326)

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which requires entities to use a forward-looking, expected loss model to estimate credit losses. It also requires entities to consider additional disclosures related to credit quality of trade and other receivables, including information related to management’s estimate of credit allowances. ASU 2016-13 was further amended in November 2018 by ASU 2018-19, Codification Improvements to Topic 236, Financial Instrument-Credit Losses. For public business entities that are U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filers excluding smaller reporting companies, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. For all other public business entities, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods within those fiscal years. On October 16, 2019, FASB voted to delay implementation of ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) - Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” For all other entities, the amendments are now effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company continues to evaluate the impact of these amendments to the Company’s financial position and results of operations and currently expect no material impact of the adoption of the amendments on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

MARKET PRICE FOR OUR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

Market Information

 

Our common stock has been quoted on the OTC pink sheets under the symbol “BSFC” since February 18, 2020. There has been limited trading in our common stock and there can be no assurances that an active trading market will ever develop.

 

Stockholders

 

As of October 25, 2021, there were 121 stockholders of record of our common stock.

 

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Dividend Policy

 

We have never paid any cash dividends on our capital stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain future earnings to fund ongoing operations and future capital requirements. Any future determination to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will be dependent upon financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and such other factors as the board of directors deems relevant.

 

Lock-up Agreements

 

In connection with the Merger, holders of 15,750,000 shares of common stock were prohibited, subject to certain exceptions, from disposing of or hedging any shares of common stock or securities convertible or exercisable for shares of common stock during an 18-month period for Restricted Holders and 12 month period for Pre-Merger Holders, after the Merger in excess of 50% of all of the common stock held by (or issuable to) them and at a price below $2.20 per share. Thereafter, such Holders may not sell, dispose or otherwise transfer more than one-third of the common stock held by such Holder in any two-month period.

 

SECURITIES AUTHORIZED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS

 

The following table provides information regarding our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2020:

 

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

Plan category   Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights     Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights     Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans  
                   
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders     3,810,000 (1)   $ 2.00       3,660,000  
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders     0       0       0  

 

  (1) Represents (i) a 10-year option to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share granted to Christopher Constable, our former chief financial officer and director (ii) 10-year options to purchase an aggregate of 665,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share to certain employees, and (iii) 10-year options to purchase an aggregate of 25,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share to certain contractors under the 2018 Plan.

 

MANAGEMENT - DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

 

Executive officers and directors

 

Below are the names of and certain information regarding the Company’s current executive officers and directors:

 

Name   Age   Position   Date Appointed
             
John Keeler   50   Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer   November 8, 2018
             
Nubar Herian   51   Director   November 8, 2018
             
Jeffrey J. Guzy   69   Director   April 12, 2021
             
Timothy McLellan   64   Director   April 12, 2021
             
Trond Ringstad   53   Director   April 12, 2021
             
Silvia Alana   37   Chief Financial Officer   May 5, 2021

 

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Our directors hold office for three-year terms and until their successors have been elected and qualified. Our officers are elected by the board of directors and serve at the discretion of the board of directors.

 

The principal occupation and business experience during the past five years for our executive officers and directors are as follows:

 

Biographies

 

John Keeler has been Executive Chairman of the Board since the effectiveness of the Merger. Mr. Keeler founded John Keeler & Co., d/b/a Blue Star Foods in May 1995 and served as its Executive Chairman of the Board since inception during which time he grew the company to become one of the leading marketers of imported blue swimming crab meat in the United States. Mr. Keeler built sales over the past 20 years to $35+ million annually through 2017. Mr. Keeler oversees procurement as well as operating facilities in the Philippines and Indonesia. Mr. Keeler is an executive committee member of the National Fisheries Institute-Crab Council and a founding member of the Indonesia and Philippines crab meat processors associations. Mr. Keeler received his BS in Economics from Rutgers University in 1995 and attended Harvard Business School executive programs in supply chain management, negotiations and marketing in 2005. Mr. Keeler’s extensive experience in the industry led to the decision to appoint him to the board of directors.

 

Nubar Herian has been a director since the effectiveness of the Merger. Since 2014, Mr. Herian has been the chief executive officer of Monaco Group Holdings, a privately-held company headquartered in Miami, Florida, which owns and operates Monaco Foods, Inc., an importer, exporter and distributor of premium gourmet foods from around the world. Since 1995, Mr. Herian has been the commercial director of Casa de Fruta Caracas, a privately-held company based in Caracas, Venezuela, that focuses on importing foods. Mr. Herian is also the president of Lunar Enterprises, Corp. (“Lunar”), a holding company for his family’s public and private equity investments and real estate holdings. Mr. Herian received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Florida Atlantic University in 1994 and an Executive M.B.A. from the University of Miami in 2014. Mr. Herian’s experience in the food import industry led to the decision to appoint him to the board of directors.

 

Jeffrey J. Guzy has served as a director of Leatt Corp. (OTC: LEAT), since April 2007 and from October 2007 to August 2010, as its President. Mr. Guzy has served as an independent director and chairman of the audit committee of Capstone Companies, Inc. (OTC: CAPC), a public holding company, since April 2007, as an independent director and chairman of the audit committee of Purebase Corporation (OTC: PUBC), a diversified resource company, since April 2020 and as Chairman of CoJax Oil and Gas Corporation, an early stage oil and gas exploration and production company, since May 2018, and was appointed as its chief executive officer in January 2020. Mr. Guzy has served as an executive manager or consultant for business development, sales, customer service, and management in the telecommunications industry, specifically, with IBM Corp., Sprint International, Bell Atlantic Video Services, Loral CyberStar, and FaciliCom International. Mr. Guzy has also started his own telecommunications company providing Internet services in Western Africa. Mr. Guzy has an MBA in Strategic Planning and Management from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, an M.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Penn State University, and a Certificate in Theology from Georgetown University. Mr. Guzy’s extensive public company board experience led to the decision to appoint him to the board of directors.

 

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Timothy McLellan has more than 35 years of operating experience and has served as a seafood executive in both the U.S. and Asia. Mr. McLellan is currently managing director of Maijialin Consulting Company Ltd. which provides international business development consulting services specific to import/export cold chain supply logistics and foodservice distribution. Prior thereto from April 2009 until February 2019, Mr. McLellan was managing director, business development for Preferred Freezer Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, which is owned by the GLP Group, a Singapore-based logistics and industrial infrastructure provider. Between 2019 and 2020, Mr. McLellan served as a private equity operating partner for CITIC Capital Partners (Shanghai) Ltd. Prior to that, from 2009 through 2019, Mr. McLellan served in various executive capacities, including Chairman for SinotransPFS Cold Chain Logistics Company, Ltd., a logistics company. Between 2004 and 2009, Mr. McLellan served as President of Empress International, a division of Thai Union Group). Between 2003 and 2004, he served in a senior manager position with the seafood division of ConAgra Foods. Mr. McLellan’s knowledge and background with regard to seafood operations management led to the decision to appoint him to the board of directors.

 

Trond Ringstad has more than 20 years of operating experience as a seafood executive in both the U.S. and Europe. Since April 2017, Mr. Ringstad has been managing partner of American Sea, LLC, a seafood processing and sales company, and since October 2013, Mr. Ringstad has been an independent consultant for AGR Partners. Between 2003 and 2007, Mr. Ringstad served as president of Pacific Supreme Seafoods, a global importing and wholesaling seafood company. Between 2001 and 2003, he served as vice president of sales and marketing for Royal Supreme Seafoods, a Norwegian / Chinese seafood importer and sales company. Mr. Ringstad graduated from the BI Norwegian Business School with a Degree in International Marketing and has a BA in Business Management from Washington State University. Mr. Ringstad’s knowledge and background with regard to seafood operations management led to the decision to appoint him to the board of directors.

 

Silvia Alana has been corporate controller of the Company since August 2020. Prior thereto, Ms. Alana was Global Technical Accounting Manager at Brightstar Corporation from April 2018 to July 2020 and Audit Manager at Crowe Horwath, LLP from July 2016 to April 2018. Ms. Alana was a Senior Accountant in Global Accounting and Reporting Services at Carnival Corporation & Plc., from May 2013 to February 2015, and an Auditor in Assurance at Pricewaterhouse Coopers, LLP, from January 2010 to May 2013. Ms. Alana graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor degree in Accounting in 2008 and a Master of Accounting in 2009. Ms. Alana is a Certified Public Accountant.

 

Committees

 

We have established three committees under the board of directors: an audit committee, a compensation committee and a nominating and corporate governance committee. We have adopted a charter for each of the three committees. Each committee’s members and functions are described below.

 

Audit Committee. Our audit committee consists of Jeffrey Guzy, Trond Ringstad and Timothy McLellan. Mr. Guzy is the chairman of the audit committee. We have determined that Messrs. Guzy, Ringstad and McLellan each satisfy the “independence” requirements of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605(a)(2) and meets the independence standards under Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. We have determined that Mr. Guzy qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert.” The audit committee oversees our accounting and financial reporting processes and the audits of the financial statements of our company. The audit committee is responsible for, among other things: (a) representing and assisting the Board in its oversight responsibilities regarding the Company’s accounting and financial reporting processes, the audits of the Company’s financial statements, including the integrity of the financial statements, and the independent auditors’ qualifications and independence; (b) overseeing the preparation of the report required by SEC rules for inclusion in the Company’s annual proxy statement; (c) retaining and terminating the Company’s independent auditors; (d) approving in advance all audit and permissible non-audit services to be performed by the independent auditors; and (e) approving related person transactions.

 

Compensation Committee. Our compensation committee consists of Jeffrey Guzy, Trond Ringstad and Timothy McLellan. Mr. Guzy is the chairman of our compensation committee. We have determined that Messrs. Guzy, Ringstad and McLellan each are “independent,” as such term is defined for directors and compensation committee members in the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC. Additionally, each qualify as “non-employee directors” for purposes of Rule 16b-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and as “outside directors” for purposes of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Committee has been established to: (a) assist the Board in seeing that a proper system of long-term and short-term compensation is in place to provide performance oriented incentives to attract and retain management, and that compensation plans are appropriate and competitive and properly reflect the objectives and performance of management and the Company; (b) assist the Board in discharging its responsibilities relating to compensation of the Company’s executive officers; (c) evaluate the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and set his or her remuneration package; and (d) make recommendations to the Board with respect to incentive compensation plans and equity-based plans.

 

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Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Our nominating and corporate governance committee consists of Jeffrey Guzy, Trond Ringstad and Timothy McLellan. Mr. Guzy is the chairman of our nominating and corporate governance. We have determined that each of Messrs. Guzy, Ringstad and McLellan qualify as “independent” as that term is defined by Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605(a)(2). The Committee is responsible for: (a) assisting the Board in determining the desired experience, mix of skills and other qualities to provide for appropriate Board composition, taking into account the current Board members and the specific needs of the Company and the Board; (b) identifying qualified individuals meeting those criteria to serve on the Board; (c) proposing to the Board the Company’s slate of director nominees for election by the shareholders at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders and nominees to fill vacancies and newly created directorships; (d) reviewing candidates recommended by shareholders for election to the Board and shareholder proposals submitted for inclusion in the Company’s proxy materials; (e) advising the Board regarding the size and composition of the Board and its committees; (f) proposing to the Board directors to serve as chairpersons and members on committees of the Board; (g) coordinating matters among committees of the Board; (h) proposing to the Board the slate of corporate officers of the Company and reviewing the succession plans for the executive officers; (i) recommending to the Board and monitoring matters with respect to governance of the Company; and (j) overseeing the Company’s compliance program.

 

Role of Board in Risk Oversight Process

 

Risk assessment and oversight are an integral part of our governance and management processes. Our Board of Directors encourages management to promote a culture that incorporates risk management into our corporate strategy and day-to-day business operations. Management discusses strategic and operational risks at regular management meetings and conducts strategic planning and review sessions during the year that include a discussion and analysis of the risks facing us.

 

Director Independence

 

Our board of directors currently consists of five members. We are not currently subject to listing requirements of any national securities exchange that has requirements that a majority of the board of directors be “independent.”

 

Board Diversity

 

The board of directors’ reviews, on an annual basis, the appropriate characteristics, skills and experience required for the board of directors as a whole and its individual members. In evaluating the suitability of individual candidates (both new candidates and current members), the board of directors, in approving (and, in the case of vacancies, appointing) such candidates, will take into account many factors, including the following:

 

  personal and professional integrity;
     
  ethics and values;
     
  experience in the industries in which we compete;
     
  experience as a director or executive officer of another publicly held company;
     
  diversity of expertise and experience in substantive matters pertaining to our business relative to other board members;
     
  conflicts of interest; and
     
  practical business judgment.

 

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The board of directors reviews on an annual basis the appropriate characteristics, skills and experience required for the board of directors as a whole and its individual members. In evaluating the suitability of individual candidates (both new candidates and current members), the board of directors, in approving (and, in the case of vacancies, appointing) such candidates, will take into account many factors, including the following:

 

  personal and professional integrity;
     
  ethics and values;
     
  experience in the industries in which we compete;
     
  experience as a director or executive officer of another publicly held company;
     
  diversity of expertise and experience in substantive matters pertaining to our business relative to other board members;
     
  conflicts of interest; and
     
  practical business judgment.

 

The entire Board participates in the nomination and audit oversight processes and considers executive and director compensation. Given the size of the Company and its stage of development, the entire Board is involved in such decision-making processes. Thus, there is a potential conflict of interest in that our directors and officers have the authority to determine issues concerning management compensation, nominations, and audit issues that may affect management decisions. We are not aware of any other conflicts of interest with any of our executive officers or directors.

 

Family relationships

 

There are no family relationships among any of our officers or directors.

 

Involvement in legal proceedings

 

There are no legal proceedings that have occurred within the past ten years concerning our directors, or control persons which involved a criminal conviction, a criminal proceeding, an administrative or civil proceeding limiting one’s participation in the securities or banking industries, or a finding of securities or commodities law violations.

 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The table below sets forth certain information about the compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to our Chief Executive Officer (the “Named Executive Officer”). No other executive officer received annual remuneration in excess of $100,000 during 2020.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position   Fiscal Year   Salary ($)     Bonus ($)     Other Annual
Compensation ($)
    Total ($)  
John Keeler   2020     82,805       -                          20,169 (1)     104,974  
Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer   2019     104,595       -       48,266 (1)     152,861  

 

  (1) Represents health insurance premiums paid on behalf of the executive officer by the Company.

Our executive officer has basic health benefits that are generally available to all of our employees.

 

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We offer a 401(k) plan to eligible employees, including our executive officers. In accordance with this plan, all eligible employees may contribute a percentage of compensation up to a maximum of the statutory limits per year. We intend for the 401(k) plan to qualify, depending on the employee’s election, under Section 401(a) of the Code, so that contributions by employees, and income earned on those contributions, are not taxable to employees until withdrawn from the 401(k) plan.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards

 

There were no equity awards made to the Named Executive Officer outstanding as of December 31, 2020.

 

2018 Equity Incentive Plan

 

We have adopted the 2018 Plan that provides for the grant of up to 7,500,000 shares of common stock. Under the 2018 Plan, we are authorized to issue incentive stock options intended to qualify under Section 422 of the Code and non-qualified stock options. The 2018 Plan is administered by our board of directors. In connection with the Merger, we issued options to purchase an aggregate of 6,240,000 shares of common stock to certain executive officers and directors.

 

Share Reserve. 7,500,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance under the 2018 Plan pursuant to a variety of stock-based compensation awards, including stock options, stock appreciation rights(“SARs”), restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, deferred stock awards, dividend equivalent awards, stock payment awards, performance awards and other stock-based awards.

 

■ to the extent that an award terminates, expires or lapses for any reason or an award is settled in cash without the delivery of shares, any shares subject to the award at such time will be available for future grants under the 2018 Plan;

 

■ to the extent shares are tendered or withheld to satisfy the grant, exercise price or tax withholding obligation with respect to any award under the 2018 Plan, such tendered or withheld shares will be available for future grants under the 2018 Plan;

 

■ to the extent that shares of common stock are repurchased by us prior to vesting so that shares are returned to us, such shares will be available for future grants under the 2018 Plan;

 

■ the payment of dividend equivalents in cash in conjunction with any outstanding awards will not be counted against the shares available for issuance under the 2018 Plan; and

 

■ to the extent permitted by applicable law or any exchange rule, shares issued in assumption of, or in substitution for, any outstanding awards of any entity acquired in any form of combination by us or any of our subsidiaries will not be counted against the shares available for issuance under the 2018 Plan.

 

Administration. The compensation committee is expected to administer the 2018 Plan unless our board of directors assumes authority for administration. The compensation committee must consist of at least three members of our board of directors, each of whom is intended to qualify as an “outside director,” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, a “non-employee director” for purposes of Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act and an “independent director” within the meaning of the NASDAQ rules. The 2018 Plan provides that the board of directors or compensation committee may delegate its authority to grant awards to employees other than executive officers to a committee consisting of one or more members of our board of directors or one or more of our officers, other than awards made to our non-employee directors, which must be approved by our full board of directors.

 

Subject to the terms and conditions of the 2018 Plan, the administrator has the authority to select the persons to whom awards are to be made, to determine the number of shares to be subject to awards and the terms and conditions of awards, and to make all other determinations and to take all other actions necessary or advisable for the administration of the 2018 Plan. The administrator is also authorized to adopt, amend or rescind rules relating to administration of the 2018 Plan. Our board of directors may at any time remove the compensation committee as the administrator and revest in itself the authority to administer the 2018 Plan. The full board of directors will administer the 2018 Plan with respect to awards to non-employee directors.

 

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Eligibility. Options, SARs, restricted stock and all other stock-based and cash-based awards under the 2018 Plan may be granted to individuals who are then our officers, employees or consultants or are the officers, employees or consultants of subsidiaries. Such awards also may be granted to our directors. Only employees of the Company or certain subsidiaries may be granted ISOs.

 

Awards. The 2018 Plan provides that the administrator may grant or issue stock options, SARs, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, deferred stock awards, deferred stock unit awards, dividend equivalent awards, performance awards, stock payment awards and other stock-based and cash-based awards, or any combination thereof. Each award will be set forth in a separate agreement with the person receiving the award and will indicate the type, terms and conditions of the award.

 

Nonstatutory Stock Options (“NSOs”) will provide for the right to purchase shares of common stock at a specified price that may not be less than the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant, and usually will become exercisable (at the discretion of the administrator) in one or more installments after the grant date, subject to the participant’s continued employment or service with us and/or subject to the satisfaction of corporate performance targets and individual performance targets established by the administrator. NSOs may be granted for any term specified by the administrator that does not exceed 10 years.

 

Incentive Stock Options (“ISOs”) will be designed in a manner intended to comply with the provisions of Section 422 of the Code and will be subject to specified restrictions contained in the Code. Among such restrictions, ISOs must have an exercise price of not less than the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant, may only be granted to employees, and must not be exercisable after a period of 10 years measured from the date of grant. In the case of an ISO granted to an individual who owns (or is deemed to own) at least 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of our capital stock, the 2018 Plan provides that the exercise price must be at least 110% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant and the ISO must not be exercisable after a period of five years measured from the date of grant.

 

Restricted Stock Awards may be granted to any eligible individual and made subject to such restrictions as may be determined by the administrator. Restricted stock, typically, may be forfeited for no consideration or repurchased by us at the original purchase price if the conditions or restrictions on vesting are not met. In general, restricted stock may not be sold or otherwise transferred until restrictions are removed or expire. Purchasers of restricted stock, unlike recipients of options, will have voting rights and will have the right to receive dividends, if any, prior to the time when the restrictions lapse; however, extraordinary dividends will generally be placed in escrow, and will not be released until restrictions are removed or expire.

 

Restricted Stock Unit Awards may be awarded to any eligible individual, typically without payment of consideration, but subject to vesting conditions based on continued employment or service or on performance criteria established by the administrator. Like restricted stock, restricted stock units may not be sold, or otherwise transferred or hypothecated, until vesting conditions are removed or expire. Unlike restricted stock, stock underlying restricted stock units will not be issued until the restricted stock units have vested, and recipients of restricted stock units generally will have no voting or dividend rights prior to the time when vesting conditions are satisfied.

 

Deferred Stock Awards represent the right to receive shares of common stock on a future date. Deferred stock may not be sold or otherwise hypothecated or transferred until issued. Deferred stock will not be issued until the deferred stock award has vested, and recipients of deferred stock generally will have no voting or dividend rights prior to the time when the vesting conditions are satisfied and the shares are issued. Deferred stock awards generally will be forfeited, and the underlying shares of deferred stock will not be issued, if the applicable vesting conditions and other restrictions are not met.

 

Deferred Stock Units are denominated in unit equivalent of shares of common stock and vest pursuant to a vesting schedule or performance criteria set by the administrator. The common stock underlying deferred stock units will not be issued until the deferred stock units have vested, and recipients of deferred stock units generally will have no voting rights prior to the time when vesting conditions are satisfied.

 

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Stock Appreciation Rights (“SARS”), may be granted in connection with stock options or other awards, or separately. SARs granted in connection with stock options or other awards typically will provide for payments to the holder based upon increases in the price of our common stock over a set exercise price. The exercise price of any SAR granted under the 2018 Plan must be at least 100% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of grant. Except as required by Section 162(m) of the Code with respect to a SAR intended to qualify as performance-based compensation as described in Section 162(m) of the Code, there are no restrictions specified in the 2018 Plan on the exercise of SARs or the amount of gain realizable therefrom, although restrictions may be imposed by the administrator in the SAR agreements. SARs under the 2018 Plan will be settled in cash or shares of common stock, or in a combination of both, at the election of the administrator.

 

Dividend Equivalent Awards represent the value of the dividends, if any, per share paid by us, calculated with reference to the number of shares covered by the award. Dividend equivalents may be settled in cash or shares and at such times as determined by our compensation committee or board of directors, as applicable.

 

Performance Awards may be granted by the administrator on an individual or group basis. Generally, these awards will be based upon specific performance targets and may be paid in cash or in common stock or in a combination of both. Performance awards may include “phantom” stock awards that provide for payments based upon the value of our common stock. Performance awards may also include bonuses that may be granted by the administrator on an individual or group basis and that may be payable in cash or in common stock or in a combination of both.

 

Stock Payment Awards may be authorized by the administrator in the form of common stock or an option or other right to purchase common stock as part of a deferred compensation or other arrangement in lieu of all or any part of compensation, including bonuses, that would otherwise be payable in cash to the employee, consultant or non-employee director.

 

Change in Control. In the event of a change in control where the acquirer does not assume or replace awards granted prior to the consummation of such transaction, awards issued under the 2018 Plan will be subject to accelerated vesting such that 100% of such awards will become vested and exercisable or payable, as applicable. Performance awards will vest in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable award agreement. In the event that, within the 12 month period immediately following a change in control, a participant’s services with us are terminated by us other than for cause (as defined in the 2018 Plan) or by such participant for good reason (as defined in the 2018 Plan), then the vesting and, if applicable, exercisability of 100% of the then-unvested shares subject to the outstanding equity awards held by such participant under the 2018 Plan will accelerate effective as of the date of such termination. The administrator may also make appropriate adjustments to awards under the 2018 Plan and is authorized to provide for the acceleration, cash-out, termination, assumption, substitution or conversion of such awards in the event of a change in control or certain other unusual or nonrecurring events or transactions. Under the 2018 Plan, a change in control is generally defined as:

 

■ the transfer or exchange in a single transaction or series of related transactions by our stockholders of more than 50% of our voting stock to a person or group;

 

■ a change in the composition of our board of directors over a two-year period such that the members of the board of directors who were approved by at least two-thirds of the directors who were directors at the beginning of the two-year period or whose election or nomination was so approved cease to constitute a majority of the board of directors;

 

■ a merger, consolidation, reorganization or business combination in which we are involved, directly or indirectly, other than a merger, consolidation, reorganization or business combination that results in our outstanding voting securities immediately before the transaction continuing to represent a majority of the voting power of the acquiring company’s outstanding voting securities and after which no person or group beneficially owns 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the surviving entity immediately after the transaction; or

 

■ stockholder approval of our liquidation or dissolution.

 

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Adjustments of Awards. In the event of any stock dividend, stock split, spin-off, recapitalization, distribution of our assets to stockholders (other than normal cash dividends) or any other corporate event affecting the number of outstanding shares of our common stock or the share price of our common stock other than an “equity restructuring” (as defined below), the administrator may make appropriate, proportionate adjustments to reflect the event giving rise to the need for such adjustments, with respect to:

 

■ the aggregate number and type of shares subject to the 2018 Plan;

 

■ the number and kind of shares subject to outstanding awards and terms and conditions of outstanding awards (including, without limitation, any applicable performance targets or criteria with respect to such awards); and

 

■ the grant or exercise price per share of any outstanding awards under the 2018 Plan.

 

In the event of one of the adjustments described above or other corporate transactions, in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the potential benefits intended to be made available under the 2018 Plan, the administrator has the discretion to make such equitable adjustments and may also:

 

■ provide for the termination or replacement of an award in exchange for cash or other property;

 

■ provide that any outstanding award cannot vest, be exercised or become payable after such event;

 

■ provide that awards may be exercisable, payable or fully vested as to shares of common stock covered thereby; or

 

■ provide that an award under the 2018 Plan cannot vest, be exercised or become payable after such event.

 

In the event of an equity restructuring, the administrator will make appropriate, proportionate adjustments to the number and type of securities subject to each outstanding award and the exercise price or grant price thereof, if applicable. In addition, the administrator will make equitable adjustments, as the administrator in its discretion may deem appropriate to reflect such equity restructuring, with respect to the aggregate number and type of shares subject to the 2018 Plan. The adjustments upon an equity restructuring are nondiscretionary and will be final and binding on the affected holders and the Company.

 

For purposes of the 2018 Plan, “equity restructuring” means a nonreciprocal transaction between us and our stockholders, such as a stock dividend, stock split, spin-off, rights offering or recapitalization through a large, nonrecurring cash dividend, that affects the number or kind of shares (or other securities) or the share price of our common stock (or other securities) and causes a change in the per share value of the common stock underlying outstanding stock-based awards granted under the 2018 Plan. In the event of a stock split in connection with an offering, the administrator will proportionately adjust (i) the number of shares subject to any outstanding award under the 2018 Plan, (ii) the exercise or grant price of any such awards, if applicable, and (iii) the aggregate number of shares subject to the 2018 Plan.

 

Amendment and Termination. Our board of directors or the compensation committee (with board approval) may terminate, amend or modify the 2018 Plan at any time and from time to time. However, we must generally obtain stockholder approval:

 

■ to increase the number of shares available under the 2018 Plan (other than in connection with certain corporate events, as described above);

 

■ reduce the price per share of any outstanding option or SAR granted under the 2018 Plan;

 

■ cancel any option or SAR in exchange for cash or another award when the option or SAR price per share exceeds the fair market value of the underlying shares; or

 

■ to the extent required by applicable law, rule or regulation (including any NASDAQ rule).

 

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Termination. Our board of directors may terminate the 2018 Plan at any time. No ISOs may be granted pursuant to the 2018 Plan after the 10th anniversary of the effective date of the 2018 Plan, and no additional annual share increases to the 2018 Plan’s aggregate share limit will occur from and after such anniversary. Any award that is outstanding on the termination date of the 2018 Plan will remain in force according to the terms of the 2018 Plan and the applicable award agreement.

 

Employment Agreements

 

We do not currently have employment agreements with our officers, other than with Silvia Alana. Ms. Alana is party to a three-year employment agreement, dated August 3, 2020, with the Company for an annual base salary of $127,500, which increased to $150,000 in August 2021. The agreement also provides for the grant on the first anniversary of the agreement of a three-year option to purchase that number of shares equal to 30% of Ms. Alana’s then current salary at the market price of the Company’s common stock. The agreement also includes a non-competition provision for 12 months following employment with the Company.

 

Director Compensation

 

As of December 31, 2020, none of the Company’s directors have been compensated for their services as directors of the Company. We reimburse our directors for reasonable expenses incurred in connection with their service as directors.

 

On March 29, 2021, in connection with the appointment of Jeffrey J. Guzy, Timothy McLellan and Trond Ringstad as directors, effective April 12, 2021, the Company entered into one-year director service agreements (each, a “Director Service Agreement”) with each of Messrs. Guzy, McLellan and Ringstad and with each of its two current Board members, Nubar Herian and John Keeler which automatically renew for successive one-year terms.

 

In consideration for their services, each director will be issued $25,000 of shares of the Company’s common stock for each year’s service. The number of shares to be issued will be based on the closing sale price of the Company’s common stock, on the principal market on which it is then traded, on the final trading day of the applicable year. On April 12, 2021, the Company granted each director a four-year option to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share, which option vests in twelve equal monthly installments over the course of the first year from the date of grant. Each Director may also receive additional issuances of common stock, on an annual basis, for his services on any committees of the Board. In addition, each director will be reimbursed for all pre-approved out-of-pocket expenses. In the event the director ceases to be a member of the Board prior to the end of any year of service, all unvested stock options will be forfeited. The stock options granted to the directors will be exercisable only on a cash basis.

 

Limitation on Liability and Indemnification Matters

 

Our certificate of incorporation contains provisions that limit the liability of our directors for monetary damages to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Consequently, our directors will not be personally liable to us or our stockholders for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duties as directors, except liability for:

 

  any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to us or our stockholders;
     
  any act or omission not in good faith or that involves intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;
     
  unlawful payments of dividends in violation of the Delaware General Corporation Law; or

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that we are required to indemnify our directors and officers, in each case to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law and provide for the advancement of expenses incurred by a director or officer in advance of the final disposition of any action or proceeding, and permit us to secure insurance on behalf of any director or officer for any liability arising out of his, her or its actions in that capacity.

 

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We believe that these provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws are necessary to attract and retain qualified persons as directors and officers.

 

The limitation of 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 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. 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, officers or employees 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, officer or employee.

 

We have directors’ and officers’ liability insurance insuring our directors and officers against liability for acts or omissions in their capacities as directors or officers.

 

Director Independence

 

We are not currently subject to listing requirements of any national securities exchange or inter-dealer quotation system that has requirements that a majority of the board of directors be “independent.” Our board of directors currently has five members, Jeffrey J. Guzy, Timothy McLellan, Trond Ringstad, John Keeler and Nubar Herian. We believe that all of our directors except Mr. Keeler, who serves as our Executive Chairman, are “independent” within the definition of independence provided in the Marketplace Rules of the NASDAQ Stock Market and the independence requirements contemplated by Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

The following table sets forth information relating to the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of October 22, 2021, by:

 

each person, or group of affiliated persons, known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding shares of common stock;
   
each of our directors;
   
our Named Executive Officer; and
   
all current directors and executive officers as a group.

 

The number of shares beneficially owned by each entity, person, director or executive officer is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC, and the information is not necessarily indicative of beneficial ownership for any other purpose. Under such rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares over which the individual has sole or shared voting power or investment power as well as any shares that the individual has the right to acquire within 60 days through the exercise of any stock option, warrants or other rights. Except as otherwise indicated, and subject to applicable community property laws, the persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares of common stock held by such person.

 

The percentage of shares beneficially owned is computed on the basis of 23,337,541 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 31, 2021. Shares of common stock that a person has the right to acquire within 60 days are deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of the person holding such rights but are not deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person, except with respect to the percentage ownership of all directors and executive officers as a group. Unless otherwise indicated below, the address for each beneficial owner listed in the table is c/o Blue Star Foods Corp., 3000 NW 109th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33172.

 

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Name and Address of Beneficial Owner  

Number of

Shares

Beneficially

Owned

   

Percentage

of Beneficial

Ownership

 
5% or Greater Stockholders                
Christopher Constable     3,145,000 (1)     13.5 %
Named Executive Officer and Directors                
John Keeler     15,014,907 (2)     64.3 %
Nubar Herian     519,662 (3)     2.2 %
Jeffrey J. Guzy     14,907 (4)     *  
Timothy McLellan     14,907 (4)     *  
Trond Ringstad     14,907 (4)     *  
All current directors and executive officers as a group (6 persons)     15,579,290       66.8 %

 

(1) Includes (i) 12,500 shares issuable under a Warrant at $2.00 per share and (ii) 3,120,000 shares issuable under a stock option.
(2) 15,000,000 of such shares are held with Mr. Keeler’s wife as tenants in the entirety and are subject to the terms of a Lock-Up Agreement, pursuant to which Mr. Keeler may not sell more than one-third of the common stock held by him in any two-month period. Includes 14,907 shares underlying a stock option which are exercisable within 60 days.
(3) Includes (i) 354,755 shares and 150,000 Warrant Shares held by Lunar, of which Mr. Herian has sole voting and dispositive power, and (ii) 14,907 shares underlying a stock option which is exercisable within 60 days.
(4) Represent shares underlying a stock option which is exercisable within 60 days.

 

Change-in-Control Agreements

 

The Company does not have any change-in-control agreements with any of its executive officers.

 

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

 

The following is a description of transactions since January 1, 2019 to which we have been a party, in which the amount involved exceeded or will exceed $120,000, and in which any of our directors, executive officers or holders of more than 5% of our capital stock, or an affiliate or immediate family member thereof, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

 

From January 2006 through May 2017, Keeler & Co issued an aggregate of $2,910,000, 6% demand promissory notes to John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer, Executive Chairman and a director. We may prepay the notes at any time first against interest due thereunder. If an event of default occurs under the notes, interest will accrue at 18% per annum and if not paid within 10 days of payment becoming due, the holder of the note is entitled to a late fee of 5% of the amount of payment not timely received. On December 30, 2020, we entered into a debt repayment agreement with Mr. Keeler pursuant to which we issued 796,650 shares of common stock to Maria Angarita, Mr. Keeler’s mother, as designated by Mr. Keeler, as repayment for an aggregate principal amount of $1,593,300 due under four such notes. All interest due on the notes had previously been paid on a monthly basis. The Company remains indebted to Mr. Keeler under the remaining promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,299,712.

 

John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer, Executive Chairman and director owns 95% of Bacolod, an exporter of pasteurized crab meat from the Philippines.

 

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John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer, Executive Chairman and director, owns 95% of Bicol, a Philippine company, and an indirect supplier of crab meat via Bacolod to the Company.

 

The Company’s transactions with Bacolod were $1,280,000 and $9,531,000 for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. There were no transactions between the Company and Bicol for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer, Executive Chairman and a director owns 80% of Strike the Gold Foods, Ltd., a UK company, which sold the Company’s packaged crab meat in the United Kingdom in 2019.

 

Keeler & Co leased approximately 16,800 square feet of office/warehouse space for our executive offices and distribution facility for $16,916 per month from John Keeler Real Estate Inc., a Florida corporation, 33% owned by a trust for each of John Keeler III, Andrea Keeler and Sarah Keeler, each of whom is a child of John Keeler, our Chief Executive Officer. On December 31, 2020, this facility was sold to an unrelated third-party purchaser and the lease was terminated. In connection with the sale, the Company retained approximately 4,756 square feet of such space, rent-free, for the next 12 months.

 

From time to time, the Company may prepay Bacolod for future shipments of product which may represent five to six months of purchases. There was $1,299,984 due as of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 for future shipments from Bacolod.

 

On March 31, 2021, John Keeler, provided a personal guaranty of up to $1,000,000 to Lighthouse in connection with its revolving credit facility.

 

John Keeler pledged 5,000,000 shares of common stock to secure the Company’s obligations under the $1,000,000 Kenar Note issued on March 26, 2019. On May 21, 2020, the Kenar Note was amended to, among other things, reduce the number of pledged shares by Mr. Keeler to 4,000,000. The Kenar Note was paid off and the pledged shares released as of July 6, 2021. Marcos Herian, President of Kenar, is the brother of Nubar Herian, a director of our Company.

 

On March 29, 2019, March 31, 2019, September 24, 2019, January 23, 2020, May 27, 2020, September 29, 2020 and December 31, 2020, we issued 92 shares, 160 shares, 160 shares, 160 shares, 160 shares, 448 shares and 144 shares, respectively, of common stock to a company owned by the stepmother of John Keeler, our Executive Chairman, as a quarterly dividend which accrued on the Series A Stock acquired by such company in connection with the Company Settlement. On June 30, 2021, 16 shares of such Series A Stock were converted into 8,000 shares of common stock.

 

On March 29, 2019, March 31, 2019, September 24, 2019, January 23, 2020, May 27, 2020, September 29, 2020, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2021, we issued 3,467 shares, 6,000 shares, 6,000 shares, 6,000 shares, 6,000 shares, 16,798 shares, 5,405 shares and 5,085 shares of common stock, respectively to Lunar, as a quarterly dividend which accrues on the Series A Stock acquired in the Offering. Nubar Herian, a director, is the President of and controls Lunar. On June 30, 2021, 600 shares of such Series A Stock were converted into 300,000 shares of common stock.

 

On February 25, 2020, Christopher Constable, the Company’s former Chief Financial Officer and a 5% shareholder, entered into a Separation and Mutual Release Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Constable resigned as Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, Treasurer and a director of the Company. The Agreement contained mutual general releases, a two-year confidentiality provision and provides for Mr. Constable’s outstanding stock options to remain in effect until November 8, 2028.

 

On March 25, 2021, the Company entered into a Director Service Agreement with each of its directors.

 

On June 30, 2021, MO7 Boats LLC, invested $275,000 in the Offering and was issued 137,500 shares of common stock and a Warrant to purchase 137,500 shares of common stock in the Offering. Marcos Herian, managing member of President of MO7 Boats LLC, is the brother of Nubar Herian, a director of our Company.

 

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On June 30, 2021, Promarine Boats LLC, invested $250,000 in the Offering and was issued 125,000 shares of common stock and a Warrant to purchase 137,500 shares of common stock in the Offering. Marcos Herian, managing member of Promarine Boats LLC, is the brother of Nubar Herian, a director of our Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, R&N Ocean Inc., invested $250,000 in the Offering and was issued 125,000 shares of common stock and a Warrant to purchase 137,500 shares of common stock in the Offering. Marcos Herian, President of Kenar, is the brother of Nubar Herian, a director of our Company.

 

On August 3, 2021, the Company issued a stock option to purchase an aggregate of 7,012 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share to Silvia Alana, its chief financial officer.

 

EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION

 

The following table sets forth the costs and expenses payable by us in connection with the sale of common stock being registered. All amounts are estimates except for the SEC filing fee, the FINRA filing fee, and the Nasdaq Capital Market listing fee.

 

SEC filing fee   $ 536.99  
FINRA filing fee   $

1,238.30

 
Nasdaq Capital Market listing fee   $

75,000

 
Legal fees and expenses   $ 170,000  
Accounting fees and expenses   $ 5,000.00  
Miscellaneous fees and expenses   $

10,000

 
Total   $

261,755.29

 

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC this registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus. This prospectus, which constitutes a part of this registration statement, does not contain all of the information in this registration statement and its exhibits. For further information with respect to us and the common stock offered by this prospectus, you should refer to this registration statement and the exhibits filed as part of that document. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or any other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and in each instance, we refer you to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to this registration statement. Each of these statements is qualified in all respects by this reference.

 

We are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. You can read our SEC filings, including this registration statement, over the Internet at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference facilities at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of these documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference facilities. You may also request a copy of these filings, at no cost, by writing or telephoning us at: Blue Star Foods Corp., 3000 NW 109th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33172 or (305) 836-6858.

 

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UNDERWRITING

 

We have entered into an underwriting agreement with the underwriters named below, with Newbridge Securities Corporation acting as representative of the underwriters named below, with respect to the shares of our common stock subject to this offering. Subject to the terms and conditions in the underwriting agreement, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each underwriter has, severally and not jointly, agreed to purchase from us on a firm commitment basis, the respective number of shares of our common stock set forth opposite its name in the table below:

 

Underwriters   Number of Shares  
Newbridge Securities Corporation      
Revere Securities LLC                   
         
Total      

 

The underwriting agreement provides that the obligation of the underwriters to purchase all of the shares being offered to the public is subject to approval of legal matters by counsel and the satisfaction of other conditions. These conditions include, among others, the continued accuracy of representations and warranties made by us in the underwriting agreement, delivery of legal opinions and the absence of any material changes in our assets, business or prospects after the date of this prospectus. The underwriters are obligated to purchase all of our shares of common stock in this offering, other than those covered by the option described below, if they purchase any of our shares of common stock.

 

The representative of the underwriters has advised us that the underwriters propose to offer the common stock directly to the public at the public offering prices listed on the cover page of this prospectus and to selected dealers, who may include the underwriters, at the public offering price less a selling concession. After the completion of this offering, the underwriters may change the offering price and other selling terms.

 

Pursuant to the underwriting agreement, we have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments which the underwriters or other indemnified parties may be required to make in respect of any such liabilities.

 

Option

 

We have granted the underwriters an option, exercisable for up to 45 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase a maximum of             additional shares of common stock from us. If the underwriters exercise all or part of this option, each underwriter will be obligated to purchase its proportionate number of shares of our common stock covered by the option at the public offering price that appears on the cover page of this prospectus, less the underwriting discounts and commissions.

 

Commissions and Expenses

 

The following table provides information regarding the amount of the underwriting discounts and commissions to be paid to the underwriters by us. These amounts are shown assuming both no exercise and full exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares of Common Stock.

 

    Per Share     Total
Without
Option
    With
Option
 
Underwriting discounts and commissions paid by us   $               $                      $                   
Proceeds, before expenses, to us   $     $     $  

 

The estimated offering expenses payable by us, exclusive of the underwriting discounts and commissions, are approximately $175,000, which includes the Company’s legal, accounting and printing costs and various other fees associated with registration of our common stock. We have agreed to reimburse the representative for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses actually incurred in the offering, including fees and disbursements of legal counsel to the representative of $35,000.

 

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In addition, we have agreed to pay the underwriters a non-accountable expense allowance equal to 1.0% of the proceeds of this offering received by the company, payable at the close of this offering.

 

Underwriter Warrants

 

In addition, we intend to issue warrants to the underwriter to purchase a number of shares of common stock equal to 7.0% of the total number of shares of common stock sold in this offering at an exercise price equal to the public offering price of the shares of common stock sold in this offering. These warrants will be exercisable, in whole or in part, commencing on a date which is one hundred eighty (180) days from the commencement of sales of the common stock sold in this offering, and expiring on the three year anniversary of the effective date of the registration statement filed for this offering. The underwriter’s warrants will provide for cash exercise provisions and will be non-callable and non-cancelable with immediate “piggyback” registration rights as well as customary anti-dilution protections in accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(g).

 

In accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(e)(1), neither the underwriter’s warrants nor any securities issued upon exercise of the underwriter’s warrants may be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, or hypothecated, or be the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of such securities by any person or a period of 180 days immediately following the date of effectiveness or commencement of sales of the offering pursuant to which the underwriter’s warrants being issued, except the transfer of any security: (i) by operation of law or by reason of reorganization of our company; (ii) to any FINRA member firm participating in this offering and the officers or partners thereof, if all securities so transferred remain subject to the lock-up restriction described above for the remainder of the time period; (iii) if the aggregate amount of our securities held by either an underwriter or a related person do not exceed 1% of the securities being offered; (iv) that is beneficially owned on a pro-rata basis by all equity owners of an investment fund, provided that no participating member manages or otherwise directs investments by the fund, and participating members in the aggregate do not own more than 10% of the equity in the fund; or (v) the exercise or conversion of any security, if all securities received remain subject to the lock-up restriction set forth above for the remainder of the time period. 

 

Consulting Shares

 

The Company is obligated to issue to Newbridge Securities Corporation 20,000 shares of its common stock in connection with financial advisory services performed by Newbridge Securities Corporation under the terms of an M&A services agreement, as amended, with the Company dated October 30, 2020. The common stock to be issued to Newbridge Securities Corporation has not yet been issued by the Company.

 

In accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(e)(1), the above consulting shares may not be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, or hypothecated, or be the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of such securities by any person or a period of 180 days immediately following the date of effectiveness or commencement of sales of this offering, except the transfer of any security: (i) by operation of law or by reason of reorganization of our company; (ii) to any FINRA member firm participating in this offering and the officers or partners thereof, if all securities so transferred remain subject to the lock-up restriction described above for the remainder of the time period; (iii) if the aggregate amount of our securities held by either an underwriter or a related person do not exceed 1% of the securities being offered; (iv) that is beneficially owned on a pro-rata basis by all equity owners of an investment fund, provided that no participating member manages or otherwise directs investments by the fund, and participating members in the aggregate do not own more than 10% of the equity in the fund; or (v) the exercise or conversion of any security, if all securities received remain subject to the lock-up restriction set forth above for the remainder of the time period.

 

Determination of Offering Price

 

There is currently a limited public trading market for our common stock. Our common stock has been quoted on the OTC pink sheets under the symbol “BSFC” since February 18, 2020. Our common stock is not currently eligible for trading on any national securities exchange or over-the-counter market. We have applied to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the proposed symbol “BSFC.” No assurance can be given that our application will be approved or, if we receive approval, that a trading market will develop, if developed, that it will be sustained or that the trading prices of our common stock on the OTC Pink marketplace will be indicative of the prices of our common stock if our common stock were traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market. We cannot assure you that our common stock will become eligible for trading on any exchange or market.

 

The public offering price of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus will be determined by negotiation between us and the representative of the underwriters. Among the factors to be considered in determining the public offering price of the shares of common stock are:

 

our history, capital structure and our business prospects;
the industry in which we operate;
our past and present operating results;
the previous experience of our executive officers;
the recent trading and closing bid prices of our common stock quoted on the OTC Pink marketplace; and
the general condition of the securities markets at the time of this offering.

 

The offering price stated on the cover page of this prospectus should not be considered an indication of the actual value of the shares of common stock sold in this offering. The values of such shares of common stock are subject to change as a result of market conditions and other factors.

 

Lock-Up Agreements

 

We and each of our officers, directors and beneficial owners of over 10% of our common stock have agreed, subject to certain exceptions, including, without limitation, not to sell, offer, agree to sell, contract to sell, hypothecate, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale of, or otherwise dispose of or hedge, directly or indirectly, any shares of our capital stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for shares of capital stock, for a period of 180 days in the case of our executive officers, our directors and certain affiliates after the date of this prospectus, without the prior written consent of Newbridge Securities Corporation.

 

The representative may, in its sole discretion and at any time or from time to time, release all or any portion of the common stock or other securities subject to the lock-up agreement. Any determination to release any common stock would be based upon a number of factors at the time of determination, which may include the market price of the common stock, the liquidity of the trading market of the common stock, general market conditions, the number of shares of common stock or other securities proposed to be sold or otherwise transferred and the timing, purposes and terms of the proposed sale or other transfer. The representative does not have any present intention, agreement or understanding, implicit or explicit, to release any of the shares of common stock or other securities subject to the lock-up agreements prior to the expiration of the lock-up period described above.

 

Right Of First Refusal

 

If, within the 12-month period following closing of this offering, the Company decides to raise funds by means of a public offering or a private placement of equity or debt securities using an underwriter or placement agent, the underwriter shall have the right to act as sole investment banker, sole book-runner and/or sole placement agent, at the underwriter’s sole discretion, for such financing.

 

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Stabilization

 

Until the distribution of shares of common stock is complete, SEC rules may limit the ability of the underwriters to bid for and purchase shares of our common stock. As an exception to these rules, underwriters are permitted to engage in certain transactions which stabilize the price of the shares of common stock, which may include short sales, covering transactions and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve sales of shares of common stock in excess of the number of shares to be purchased by the underwriter in the offering, which creates a short position. “Covered” short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriter’s option to purchase additional shares of common stock from us in the offering. The underwriter may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional shares of common stock or purchasing shares of common stock in the open market. In determining the source of shares of common stock to close out the covered short position, the underwriter will consider, among other things, the price of shares of common stock available for purchase in the open market as compared to the share price at which they may purchase through their option to purchase additional shares. “Naked” short sales are any sales in excess of such option. The underwriters must close out any naked short position by purchasing shares of common stock in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of the shares of 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 the shares of common stock made by the underwriter 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 other underwriter a portion of the underwriting discount received by it because the representative has repurchased shares sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

 

Neither we nor the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above might have on our shares of common stock. Any of these activities may have the effect of preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of our shares of common stock. They may also cause the price of the shares of common stock to be higher than the price that would otherwise exist in the open market in the absence of these transactions. If the underwriters commence any of these transactions, they may discontinue them at any time without notice.

 

We have agreed that, for a period of 180 days from the date of this prospectus, we will not, without the prior written consent of the underwriters and subject to certain exceptions, offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge, or otherwise dispose of any securities issued or guaranteed by us or shares of any class of our capital stock.

 

We expect that delivery of the shares will be made to investors on or about              , 2021 (such settlement being referred to as “T+2”).

 

In the ordinary course of their various business activities, the underwriter and its affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (which may include bank loans and/or credit default swaps) for their own account and for the accounts of their clients and may at any time hold long and short positions in such securities and instruments. Such investments and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of ours or our affiliates. The underwriter and its 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.

 

Electronic Prospectus

 

This prospectus may be made available in electronic format on Internet sites or through other online services maintained by the underwriters or their affiliates. In those cases, prospective investors may view offering terms online and may be allowed to place orders online. Other than this prospectus in electronic format, any information on the underwriters’ or their affiliates’ websites and any information contained in any other website maintained by the underwriters or any affiliate of the underwriters is not part of this prospectus or the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, has not been approved and/or endorsed by us or the underwriters and should not be relied upon by investors.

 

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Additional Relationships

 

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. The underwriters and their respective affiliates may provide from time to time in the future in the ordinary course of their business certain commercial banking, financial advisory, investment banking and other services to us for which they will be entitled to receive customary fees and expenses.

 

Selling Restrictions

 

Australia

 

No placement document, prospectus, product disclosure statement, or other disclosure document has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (the “ASIC”) in relation to this offering. This prospectus does not constitute a prospectus, product disclosure statement, or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act 2001 (the “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 our common stock may only be made to persons, or 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 our common stock without disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act.

 

The common stock applied for by Exempt Investors in Australia must not be offered for sale in Australia in the period of twelve 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 securities 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.

 

Bermuda

 

The shares of common stock offered by this prospectus may be offered or sold in Bermuda only in compliance with the provisions of the Investment Business Act of 2003 of Bermuda which regulates the sale of securities in Bermuda. Additionally, non-Bermudian persons (including companies) may not carry on or engage in any trade or business in Bermuda unless such persons are permitted to do so under applicable Bermuda legislation.

 

Brazil

 

No securities may be offered or sold in Brazil, except in circumstances that do not constitute a public offering or unauthorized distribution under Brazilian laws and regulations. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered with the Comissão de Valores Mobiliários.

 

British Virgin Islands

 

The shares of common stock offered by this prospectus are not being, and may not be offered to the public or to any person in the British Virgin Islands for purchase or subscription by or on our behalf. The shares may be offered to companies incorporated under the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 (British Virgin Islands) (each a “BVI Company”), but only where the offer will be made to, and received by, the relevant BVI Company entirely outside of the British Virgin Islands.

 

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This prospectus has not been, and will not be, registered with the Financial Services Commission of the British Virgin Islands. No registered prospectus has been or will be prepared in respect of the shares for the purposes of the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010 or the Public Issuers Code of the British Virgin Islands.

 

Canada

 

The shares of common stock 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 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 of common stock 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.

 

Chile

 

The shares of our common stock offered by this prospectus are not registered in the Securities Registry (Registro de Valores) or subject to the control of the Chilean Securities and Exchange Commission (Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros de Chile). This prospectus and other offering materials relating to the offer of the shares do not constitute a public offer of, or an invitation to subscribe for or purchase, the shares in the Republic of Chile, other than to individually identified purchasers pursuant to a private offering within the meaning of Article 4 of the Chilean Securities Market Act (Ley de Mercado de Valores) (an offer that is not “addressed to the public at large or to a certain sector or specific group of the public”).

 

China

 

This prospectus does not constitute a public offer of shares, whether by sale or subscription, in the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”). The shares are not being offered or sold directly or indirectly in the PRC to or for the benefit of, legal or natural persons of the PRC.

 

Further, no legal or natural persons of the PRC may directly or indirectly purchase any of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus or any beneficial interest therein without obtaining all prior PRC’s governmental approvals that are required, whether statutorily or otherwise. Persons who come into possession of this document are required by the issuer and its representatives to observe these restrictions.

 

Dubai International Financial Centre

 

This prospectus relates to an Exempt Offer in accordance with the Offered Securities Rules of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (the “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 has no responsibility for the prospectus. The common stock to which this prospectus relates may be illiquid or subject to restrictions on its resale. Prospective purchasers of the common stock offered should conduct their own due diligence on the common stock. If you do not understand the contents of this prospectus, you should consult an authorized financial advisor.

 

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European Economic Area and United Kingdom

 

In relation to each Member State of the European Economic Area and the United Kingdom (each, a “Relevant State”), each underwriter has represented and agreed that it has not made and will not make an offer of any of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus to the public in that Relevant State, except that it may make an offer of any Shares 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 in 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 the representatives for any such offer; or

 

(c) in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation,

 

provided that no such offer of shares of our common stock will result in a requirement for us or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or a supplemental prospectus pursuant to Article 23 of the Prospectus Regulation.

 

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus 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 of our common stock to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus and the expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

 

France

 

Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the shares described in this prospectus has been submitted to the clearance procedures of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers or of the competent authority of another member state of the European Economic Area and notified to the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. The shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, to the public in France. Neither this prospectus nor any other offering material relating to the shares has been or will be (1) released, issued, distributed or caused to be released, issued or distributed to the public in France; or (2) used in connection with any offer for subscription or sale of the shares to the public in France.

 

Such offers, sales and distributions will be made in France only:

 

(a) to qualified investors (investisseurs estraint) and/or to a restricted circle of investors (cercle estraint d’investisseurs), in each case investing for their own account, all as defined in, and in accordance with, articles L.411-2, D.411-1, D.411-2, D.734-1, D.744-1, D.754-1 and D.764-1 of the French Code monétaire et financier;

 

(b) to investment services providers authorized to engage in portfolio management on behalf of third parties; or

 

(c) in a transaction that, in accordance with article L.411-2-II-1° -or-2° -or 3° of the French Code monétaire et financier and article 211-2 of the General Regulations (Réglement Général) of the Autorité des Marchés Financiers, does not constitute a public offer (appel public á l’épargne).

 

The shares may be resold directly or indirectly, only in compliance with articles L.411-1, L.411-2, L412-1 and L.621-8 through L.621-8-3 of the French Code monétaire et financier.

 

Hong Kong

 

Shares of our common stock may not be offered or sold by means of any document other than (i) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap.32, Laws of Hong Kong), (ii) to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap.571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder, or (iii) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a “prospectus” within the meaning of the Companies Ordinance (Cap.32, Laws of Hong Kong), and no advertisement, invitation, or document relating to shares of our common stock may be issued or may be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to shares of our common stock which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to “professional investors” within the meaning of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) and any rules made thereunder.

 

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Japan

 

No registration pursuant to Article 4, paragraph 1 of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948, as amended), or the FIEL, has been made or will be made with respect to the solicitation of the application for the acquisition of the shares of common stock.

 

Accordingly, the shares of common stock have not been, directly or indirectly, offered or sold and will not be, directly or indirectly, offered or sold in Japan or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of Japan (which term as used herein means any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan) or to others for re-offering or re-sale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of Japan except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements, and otherwise in compliance with, the FIEL and the other applicable laws and regulations of Japan.

 

For Qualified Institutional Investors (“QII”)

 

Please note that the solicitation for newly-issued or secondary securities (each as described in Paragraph 2, Article 4 of the FIEL) in relation to the shares of common stock constitutes either a “QII only private placement” or a “QII only secondary distribution” (each as described in Paragraph 1, Article 23-13 of the FIEL). Disclosure regarding any such solicitation, as is otherwise prescribed in Paragraph 1, Article 4 of the FIEL, has not been made in relation to the shares of common stock. The shares of common stock may only be transferred to QIIs.

 

For Non-QII Investors

 

Please note that the solicitation for newly-issued or secondary securities (each as described in Paragraph 2, Article 4 of the FIEL) in relation to the shares of common stock constitutes either a “small number private placement” or a “small number private secondary distribution” (each as is described in Paragraph 4, Article 23-13 of the FIEL). Disclosure regarding any such solicitation, as is otherwise prescribed in Paragraph 1, Article 4 of the FIEL, has not been made in relation to the shares of common stock. The shares of common stock may only be transferred en bloc without subdivision to a single investor.

 

Korea

 

The shares of common stock offered by this prospectus have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Investments Services and Capital Markets Act of Korea and the decrees and regulations thereunder (the “FSCMA”), and the shares have been and will be offered in Korea as a private placement under the FSCMA. None of the shares may be offered, sold or delivered directly or indirectly, or offered or sold to any person for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Korea or to any resident of Korea except pursuant to the applicable laws and regulations of Korea, including the FSCMA and the Foreign Exchange Transaction Law of Korea and the decrees and regulations thereunder (the “FETL”). Furthermore, the purchaser of the shares will comply with all applicable regulatory requirements (including but not limited to requirements under the FETL) in connection with the purchase of the shares. By the purchase of the shares, the relevant holder thereof will be deemed to represent and warrant that if it is in Korea or is a resident of Korea, it purchased the shares pursuant to the applicable laws and regulations of Korea.

 

Kuwait

 

Unless all necessary approvals from the Kuwait Capital Markets Authority pursuant to Law No. 7/2010, its Executive Regulations, and the various Resolutions and Announcements issued pursuant thereto or in connection therewith have been given in relation to the marketing of and sale of the Shares, these may not be offered for sale, nor sold in the State of Kuwait (“Kuwait”). Neither this prospectus nor any of the information contained herein is intended to lead to the conclusion of any contract of whatsoever nature within Kuwait. With regard to the contents of this document we recommend that you consult a licensee as per the law and specialized in giving advice about the purchase of shares and other securities before making the subscription decision.

 

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Malaysia

 

No prospectus or other offering material or document in connection with the offer and sale of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus has been or will be registered with the Securities Commission of Malaysia (“Commission”) for the Commission’s approval pursuant to the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the shares may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the shares be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Malaysia other than (i) a closed end fund approved by the Commission; (ii) a holder of a Capital Markets Services License; (iii) a person who acquires the shares, as principal, if the offer is on terms that the shares may only be acquired at a consideration of not less than RM250,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currencies) for each transaction; (iv) an individual whose total net personal assets or total net joint assets with his or her spouse exceeds RM3 million (or its equivalent in foreign currencies), excluding the value of the primary residence of the individual; (v) an individual who has a gross annual income exceeding RM300,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currencies) per annum in the preceding twelve months; (vi) an individual who, jointly with his or her spouse, has a gross annual income of RM400,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currencies), per annum in the preceding twelve months; (vii) a corporation with total net assets exceeding RM10 million (or its equivalent in a foreign currencies) based on the last audited accounts; (viii) a partnership with total net assets exceeding RM10 million (or its equivalent in foreign currencies); (ix) a bank licensee or insurance licensee as defined in the Labuan Financial Services and Securities Act 2010; (x) an Islamic bank licensee or takaful licensee as defined in the Labuan Financial Services and Securities Act 2010; and (xi) any other person as may be specified by the Commission; provided that, in the each of the preceding categories (i) to (xi), the distribution of the shares is made by a holder of a Capital Markets Services License who carries on the business of dealing in securities. The distribution in Malaysia of this prospectus is subject to Malaysian laws. This prospectus does not constitute and may not be used for the purpose of public offering or an issue, offer for subscription or purchase, invitation to subscribe for or purchase any securities requiring the registration of a prospectus with the Commission under the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007.

 

Saudi Arabia

 

This document may not be distributed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia except to such persons as are permitted under the Offers of Securities Regulations as issued by the board of the Saudi Arabian Capital Market Authority (“CMA”) pursuant to resolution number 2-11-2004 dated 4 October 2004 as amended by resolution number 1-28-2008, as amended. The CMA does not make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of this document and expressly disclaims any liability whatsoever for any loss arising from, or incurred in reliance upon, any part of this document. Prospective purchasers of the securities offered hereby should conduct their own due diligence on the accuracy of the information relating to the securities. If you do not understand the contents of this document, you should consult an authorized financial adviser.

 

Singapore

 

This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of shares of our common stock may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the shares of our common stock be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the “SFA”) (ii) to a relevant person, or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), 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 shares of our common stock are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 by a relevant person which is: (i) a corporation (which is not an accredited investor) 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 (ii) a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary is an accredited investor, shares, debentures and units of shares and debentures of that corporation or the beneficiaries’ rights and interest in that trust will not be transferable for six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired shares of our common stock under Section 275 except: (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the SFA or to a relevant person, or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions, specified in Section 275 of the SFA; (ii) where no consideration is given for the transfer; or (iii) by operation of law.

 

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South Africa

 

Due to restrictions under the securities laws of South Africa, the shares are not offered, and the offer will not be transferred, sold, renounced or delivered, in South Africa or to a person with an address in South Africa, unless one or other of the following exemptions applies:

 

(a) the offer, transfer, sale, renunciation or delivery is to:

 

  (i) persons whose ordinary business is to deal in securities, as principal or agent;

 

  (ii) the South African Public Investment Corporation;

 

  (iii) persons or entities regulated by the Reverse Bank of South Africa;

 

  (iv) authorized financial service providers under South African law;

 

  (v) financial institutions recognized as such under South African law;

 

  (vi) a wholly-owned subsidiary of any person or entity contemplated in (iii), (iv) or (v), acting as agent in the capacity of an authorized portfolio manager for a pension fund or collective investment scheme (in each case duly registered as such under South African law); or

 

  (vii) any combination of the person in (i) to (vi); or

 

(b) the total contemplated acquisition cost of the securities, for any single addressee acting as principal is equal to or greater than ZAR1,000,000.

 

No “offer to the public” (as such term is defined in the South African Companies Act, No. 71 of 2008 (as amended or re-enacted) (the “South African Companies Act”)) in South Africa is being made in connection with the issue of the shares. Accordingly, this document does not, nor is it intended to, constitute a “registered prospectus” (as that term is defined in the South African Companies Act) prepared and registered under the South African Companies Act and has not been approved by, and/or filed with, the South African Companies and Intellectual Property Commission or any other regulatory authority in South Africa. Any issue or offering of the shares in South Africa constitutes an offer of the shares in South Africa for subscription or sale in South Africa only to persons who fall within the exemption from “offers to the public” set out in Section 96(1)(a) of the South African Companies Act. Accordingly, this document must not be acted on or relied on by persons in South Africa who do not fall within Section 96(1)(a) of the South African Companies Act (such persons being referred to as “SA Relevant Persons”). Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available in South Africa only to SA Relevant Persons and will be engaged in South Africa only with SA Relevant Persons.

 

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Switzerland

 

We have not and will not register with the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (the “FINMA”) as a foreign collective investment scheme pursuant to Article 119 of the Federal Act on Collective Investment Scheme of 23 June 2006, as amended (CISA) and accordingly the securities being offered pursuant to this prospectus have not and will not be approved, and may not be licensable, with FINMA. Therefore, the securities have not been authorized for distribution by FINMA as a foreign collective investment scheme pursuant to Article 119 CISA and the securities offered hereby may not be offered to the public (as this term is defined in Article 3 CISA) in or from Switzerland. The securities may solely be offered to “qualified investors,” as this term is defined in Article 10 CISA, and in the circumstances set out in Article 3 of the Ordinance on Collective Investment Scheme of 22 November 2006, as amended (the “CISO”) such that there is no public offer. Investors, however, do not benefit from protection under CISA or CISO or supervision by FINMA. This prospectus and any other materials relating to the securities are strictly personal and confidential to each offeree and do not constitute an offer to any other person. This prospectus may only be used by those qualified investors to whom it has been handed out in connection with the offer described herein and may neither directly or indirectly be distributed or made available to any person or entity other than its recipients. It may not be used in connection with any other offer and will in particular not be copied or distributed to the public in Switzerland or from Switzerland. This prospectus does not constitute an issue prospectus as that term is understood pursuant to Article 652a or 1156 of the Swiss Federal Code of Obligations. We have not applied for a listing of the securities on the SIX Swiss Exchange or any other regulated securities market in Switzerland, and consequently, the information presented in this prospectus does not necessarily comply with the information standards set out in the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange and corresponding prospectus schemes annexed to the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange.

 

Taiwan

 

The shares of common stock offered by this prospectus have not been and will not be registered with the Financial Supervisory Commission of Taiwan pursuant to relevant securities laws and regulations and may not be sold, issued or offered within Taiwan through a public offering or in circumstances which constitutes an offer within the meaning of the Securities and Exchange Act of Taiwan that requires a registration or approval of the Financial Supervisory Commission of Taiwan. No person or entity in Taiwan has been authorized to offer, sell, give advice regarding or otherwise intermediate the offering and sale of the shares in Taiwan.

 

United Arab Emirates

 

The shares of common stock offered by this prospectus have not been, and are not being, publicly offered, sold, promoted or advertised in the United Arab Emirates (including the Dubai International Financial Centre) other than in compliance with the laws of the United Arab Emirates (and the Dubai International Financial Centre) governing the issue, offering and sale of securities. Further, this prospectus does not constitute a public offer of securities in the United Arab Emirates (including the Dubai International Financial Centre) and is not intended to be a public offer. This prospectus has not been approved by or filed with the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, the Securities and Commodities Authority or the Dubai Financial Services Authority.

 

United Kingdom

 

Each underwriter has represented and agreed that:

 

(a) it has only communicated or caused to be communicated and will only communicate or cause to be communicated 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, the “FSMA”) received by it in connection with the issue or sale of the shares of our common stock in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA is complied with or does not apply; and

 

(b) it has complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the FSMA with respect to anything done by it in relation to the shares of our common stock in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom.

 

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LEGAL MATTERS

 

The Crone Law Group, P.C. has opined on the validity of the shares being offered hereby. Dickinson Wright PLLC has acted as counsel for the underwriters in connection with certain legal matters related to this offering.

 

EXPERTS

 

The consolidated financial statements included in this prospectus and in the registration statement for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 have been audited by MaloneBailey, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm and are included in reliance upon their report given upon the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

Blue Star Foods Corp

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Blue Star Foods Corp and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ deficit, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Going Concern Matter

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 3 to the financial statements, the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations and has a net capital deficiency that raises substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 3. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s 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 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 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 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 financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

/s/ MaloneBailey, LLP
www.malonebailey.com  

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2014.

Houston, Texas

April 15, 2021

 

F-1
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

DECEMBER 31,

 

    2020     2019  
             
ASSETS                
CURRENT ASSETS                
Cash and cash equivalents (including VIE $8,725 for 2019)   $ 55,644     $ 153,904  
Restricted cash     282,043       41,906  
Accounts receivable, net (including VIE $20,321 for 2019)     1,082,468       2,071,363  
Inventory, net (including VIE $95,441 for 2019)     1,832,661       7,984,492  
Advances to related party     1,299,984       1,285,935  
Other current assets (including VIE $3,679 for 2019)     176,925       242,700  
Total Current Assets     4,729,725       11,780,300  
RELATED PARTY LONG-TERM RECEIVABLE     455,545       -  
FIXED ASSETS, net     20,064       61,908  
RIGHT OF USE ASSET     99,472       1,206,931  
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net                
Trademarks     788,614       845,278  
Customer relationships     1,145,831       1,241,667  
Non-compete agreements     29,171       39,167  
Total Intangible Assets     1,963,616       2,126,112  
GOODWILL     445,395       445,395  
OTHER ASSETS     108,088       125,418  
TOTAL ASSETS   $ 7,821,905     $ 15,746,064  
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT                
CURRENT LIABILITIES                
Accounts payable and accruals (including VIE $30,649 for 2019)   $ 1,607,490     $ 3,528,466  
Working capital line of credit     1,805,907       6,917,968  
Current maturities of lease liabilities     29,337       136,952  
Current maturities of related party long-term notes     195,000       100,364  
Related party notes payable     972,500       972,500  
Related party notes payable - Subordinated     1,299,712       2,910,136  
Other current liabilities     1,346,838       -  
Total Current Liabilities     7,256,784       14,566,386  
LONG -TERM LIABILITY                
Long-term lease liability     69,844       1,089,390  
Related party long-term notes     515,000       610,000  
TOTAL LIABILITIES     7,841,628       16,265,776  
STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT                
Series A 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, 1,413 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019     -       -  
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 19,580,721 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2020, and 17,589,705 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2019     1,958       1,761  
Additional paid-in capital     13,488,836       8,789,021  
Accumulated deficit     (13,510,517 )     (8,952,466 )
Total Blue Star Foods Corp. Stockholders’ Deficit     (19,723 )     (161,684 )
Non-controlling interest     -       (476,250 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income (VIE)     -       118,222  
Total VIE’s Deficit     -       (358,028 )
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT     (19,723 )     (519,712 )
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT   $ 7,821,905     $ 15,746,064  

 

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

 

F-2
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,

 

    2020     2019  
             
REVENUE, NET   $ 14,111,368     $ 23,829,463  
                 
COST OF REVENUE     12,623,576       20,610,000  
                 
GROSS PROFIT     1,487,792       3,219,463  
                 
COMMISSIONS     96,594       106,671  
SALARIES AND WAGES     1,286,879       3,897,541  
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION     268,341       215,089  
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES     1,639,484       2,953,069  
                 
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS     (1,803,506 )     (3,952,907 )
                 
OTHER INCOME     891,667       -  
FORBEARANCE FEE EXPENSE (NON-CASH)     (2,655,292 )     -  
INTEREST EXPENSE     (870,303 )     (1,068,796 )
                 
NET LOSS     (4,437,434 )     (5,021,703 )
                 
LESS: NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST     7,577       (35,417 )
                 
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.   $ (4,445,011 )   $ (4,986,286 )
                 
DIVIDEND ON PREFERRED STOCK     113,040       113,041  
                 
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP COMMON STOCKHOLDERS   $ (4,558,051 )   $ (5,099,327 )
                 
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS:                
                 
TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENT ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST     23,700       50,141  
                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST   $ 31,277     $ 14,724  
                 
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.   $ (4,445,011 )   $ (4,986,286 )
                 
INCOME TAX EXPENSE     (1,122 )     (4,413 )
                 
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP   $ (4,443,889 )   $ (4,990,699 )
                 
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP   $ (4,443,889 )   $ (4,990,699 )
                 
Loss per basic and diluted common share:                
Basic net loss per common share   $ (0.25 )   $ (0.31 )
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding     18,257,491       16,201,766  
Fully diluted net loss per common share   $ (0.25 )   $ (0.31 )
Fully diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     18,257,491       16,201,766  

 

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

 

F-3
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2020

 

                                                                 
    Series A Pref Stock $.0001 par value     Common Stock $.0001 par value     Additional
Paid-in
    Accumulated      Accumulated Other Comprehensive      Total Blue Star Foods Corp.
Stockholders’
    Non-
Controlling
    Total
Stockholders’
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit           Deficit     Interest     Deficit  
December 31, 2018     1,413       -       16,023,164       1,603       3,404,774       (3,853,139 )   - -       (446,762 )     (372,752 )     (819,514 )
                                                                                 
Common stock issued for cash     -       -       16,000       2       31,998       -       -       32,000       -       32,000  
                                                                                 
Cancellation of issued shares for cash     -       -       (5,000 )     (1 )     (9,999 )     -               (10,000 )     -       (10,000 )
                                                                                 
Common stock issued for service     -       -       198,521       20       397,022       -               397,042       -       397,042  
                                                                                 
Common stock incentive issued to employees     -       -       5,500       1       10,999       -     -         11,000       -       11,000  
                                                                                 
Common stock issued for Coastal Pride Acquisition     -       -       1,295,000       130       2,589,870       -               2,590,000       -       2,590,000  
                                                                                 
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       2,251,322       -               2,251,322       -       2,251,322  
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
                                                                                 
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     -       -       56,520       6       113,035       (113,041 )             -       -       -  
                                                                                 
Net Loss     -       -       -       -       -       (4,986,286 )             (4,986,286 )     (35,417 )     (5,021,703 )
                                                                                 
Deconsolidation of Strike the Gold Foods, Ltd.                                                                                
                                                                                 
Comprehensive loss     -       -       -       -       -       -               -       50,141       50,141  
                                                                                 
December 31, 2019     1,413       -       17,589,705       1,761       8,789,021       (8,952,466 )   - -       (161,684 )     (358,028 )     (519,712 )
                                                                                 
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       139,380       -               139,380       -       139,380  
                                                                                 
Common stock issued for cash     -       -       5,000       -       10,000       -               10,000       -       10,000  
                                                                                 
Common stock issued for service     -       -       115,814       12       188,988       -               189,000       -       189,000  
                                                                                 
Common stock issued to related party lender for forbearance     -       -       1,021,266       100       2,655,192       -               2,655,292       -       2,655,292  
                                                                                 
Common stock issued to settle related party notes     -       -       796,650       80       1,593,220       -       -       1,593,300       -       1,593,300  
                                                                                 
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     -       -       52,286       5       113,035       (113,040 )   -         -       -       -  
                                                                                 
Net Loss     -       -       -       -       -       (4,445,011 )             (4,445,011 )     7,577       (4,437,434 )
                                                                                 
Deconsolidation of Strike the Gold Foods, Ltd.     -       -       -       -       -       -               -       326,751       326,751  
                                                                                 
Comprehensive loss     -       -       -       -       -       -               -       23,700       23,700  
                                                                                 
December 31, 2020     1,413       -       19,580,721       1,958       13,488,836       (13,510,517 )   - -       (19,723 )     -       (19,723 )

 

 

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

 

F-4
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,

 

    2020     2019  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                
Net Loss   $ (4,437,434 )   $ (5,021,703 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided in operating activities:                
Stock based compensation     139,380       2,262,322  
Common stock issued for service     69,000       397,042  
Common stock issued for forbearance fee     2,655,292       -  
Depreciation of fixed assets     33,367       66,012  
Amortization of intangible assets     162,496       20,380  
Amortization of loan costs     72,478       128,696  
Lease expense    

175,699

      149,861  
Bad debt expense     13,293       -  
Allowance for inventory obsolescence     71,487       -  
Gain on PPP loan forgiveness     (344,762 )     -  
Gain on termination of lease     (38,819 )     -  
Gain on sale of equipment     (343,181 )     -  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Receivables     942,656       2,517,585  
Inventories     6,023,473       1,804,241  
Advances to affiliated supplier     (14,049 )     (146,316 )
Other current assets     63,315       (12,930 )
Right of use liability     (156,582 )     (130,450 )
Other assets     14,852       -  
Accounts payable and accruals     (1,873,224 )     (457,576 )
Other current liabilities     1,346,838       -  
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities     4,575,575       1,577,164  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Deconsolidation of variable interest entity     (8,421 )     -  
Net cash paid for acquisition     -       (260,667 )
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets     407,198       -  
Purchases of fixed assets     (55,540 )     (9,038 )
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities     343,237       (269,705 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
Proceeds from common stock offering     10,000       22,000  
Proceeds from working capital line of credit     6,775,660       21,545,968  
Proceeds from related party notes payable     -       1,100,000  
Proceeds from HSBC loan     43,788       -  
Proceeds from PPP loan     344,762       -  
Repayments of working capital line of credit     (11,887,721 )     (23,993,616 )
Repayments of related party notes payable     (17,124 )     (127,500 )
Principal payments of long-term debt     -       (30,866 )
Payments of loan costs     (70,000 )     (25,000 )
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities     (4,800,635 )     (1,509,014 )
                 
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash     23,700       50,141  
                 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH     141,877       (151,414 )
                 
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - BEGINNING OF PERIOD     195,810       347,226  
                 
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - END OF PERIOD   $ 337,687     $ 195,810  
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITY                
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     113,040       113,041  
Operating lease assets recognized in exchange for operating lease liabilities    

28,137

      1,257,751  
Shares issued for partial payment of accounts payable     120,000       -  
Shares issued for partial payment of notes payable - related party     1,593,300       -  
Shares issued for acquisition     -       2,590,000  
Related party notes recognized from business acquisition     -       710,000  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information                
Cash paid for interest   $ 725,693     $ 1,068,796  

 

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

 

F-5
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

December 31, 2020 and 2019

 

Note 1. Company Overview

 

Located in Miami, Florida, Blue Star Foods Corp. (“we”, “our”, the “Company”) is a sustainable seafood company. The Company’s main operating business, John Keeler & Co., Inc. has been in business for approximately twenty-five years. The Company was formed under the laws of the State of Delaware. The current source of revenue is importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States, Canada and Europe under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh.

 

On November 8, 2018, the sole shareholder of John Keeler & Co., Inc., John Keeler, executed an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization with Blue Star Foods Corp. (formerly A.G. Acquisition Group II, Inc.) and Blue Star Acquisition Corp. pursuant to which he exchanged his 500 shares, par value $1.00 per share in John Keeler & Co., Inc. for 15,000,000 shares, par value $0.0001 per share of the then outstanding 16,015,000 outstanding shares. As part of the merger, the net liabilities existing in the company as of the date of the merger totaling approximately $2,400 were converted to equity. The prior owners of Blue Star Foods Corp. received 750,000 shares of common stock as part of this transaction, and various service providers received 265,000 shares as compensation for their work on the transaction resulting in an expense and additional paid in capital of $530,001. Additionally, there were 725 Series A Preferred shares and 181,250 warrants issued to private placement offering investors for a total capital contribution of $725,000, 688 Series A Preferred shares and 172,000 warrants issued for settlement with prior investors which had a fair value of $688,000 and $81,353 respectively. Upon the close of the merger, there were 3,120,000 options to purchase common stock issued to Christopher Constable, the Company’s then Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, Carlos Faria, the Company’s then Chief Executive Officer, held options to purchase 104 shares of John Keeler & Co., Inc. prior to the merger. These options were immediately converted at closing to an option to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock in the Company.

 

The Merger was accounted for as a “reverse merger” and recapitalization since, immediately following the completion of the transaction, the holders of John Keeler & Co., Inc.’s stock had effective control of Blue Star Foods Corp. In addition, John Keeler & Co., Inc. had control of the combined entity through control of the Board by designating all four of the board seats. Additionally, all of John Keeler & Co., Inc.’s officers and senior executive positions continued as management of the combined entity after consummation of the Merger. For accounting purposes, John Keeler & Co., Inc. was deemed to be the accounting acquirer in the transaction and, consequently, the transaction has been treated as a recapitalization of Blue Star Foods Corp. Accordingly, John Keeler & Co., Inc.’s assets, liabilities and results of operations are the historical financial statements of the registrant, and the John Keeler & Co., Inc.’s assets, liabilities and results of operations have been consolidated with Blue Star Foods Corp effective as of the date of the closing of the Merger. No step-up in basis or intangible assets or goodwill was recorded in this transaction.

 

On November 26, 2019, John Keeler & Co., Inc., a Florida corporation (the “Purchaser”), and wholly-owned direct subsidiary of the Company, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the “Coastal Merger Agreement”) with Coastal Pride Company, Inc., a South Carolina corporation, Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC, a Florida limited liability company and newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Purchaser (the “Acquisition Subsidiary” and, upon the effective date of the Merger, the “Surviving Company), and The Walter F. Lubkin, Jr. Irrevocable Trust dated 1/8/03 (the “Trust”), Walter F. Lubkin III (“Lubkin III”), Tracy Lubkin Greco (“Greco”) and John C. Lubkin (“Lubkin”), constituting all of the shareholders of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. immediately prior to the Coastal Merger (collectively, the “Sellers”). Pursuant to the terms of the Coastal Merger Agreement, Coastal Pride Company, Inc. merged with and into the Acquisition Subsidiary, with the Acquisition Subsidiary being the surviving company (the “Coastal Pride Merger”).

 

F-6
 

 

Coastal Pride is a seafood company, based in Beaufort, South Carolina, that imports pasteurized and fresh crabmeat sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crabmeat throughout North America.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Purchase Agreement was amended (the “Amendment”), to increase the Purchase Price up to an aggregate of CAD$5,000,000 and the acquisition closed. Pursuant to the Amendment, on August 3, 2021, an aggregate of 344,957 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$1,000,000 of additional shares calculated at USD$2.30 per share) was put in escrow until the 24-month anniversary of the closing. If, within 24 months of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of at least CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive all of the escrowed shares. If, as of the 24-month anniversary of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of less than CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive a prorated number of the escrowed shares based on the actual cumulative revenue of TOBC as of such date.

 

Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements of the Company were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, John Keeler & Co, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary, and Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC (“Coastal Pride”), a wholly owned subsidiary of John Keeler & Co., Inc. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill and other intangible assets include the cost of the acquired business in excess of the fair value of the tangible net assets recorded in connection with an acquisition. Other intangible assets include customer relationships, non-compete agreements, and trademarks. The Company reviews its finite-lived intangibles and goodwill for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value and may not be recoverable.

 

Impairments are recorded as impairment charges in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, and a reduction of the asset’s carrying value in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets when they occur. In accordance with its policies, the Company performed an assessment of its finite-lived intangibles and goodwill and determined there was no impairment for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

Variable Interest Entity

 

Under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 810, Consolidation, when a reporting entity is the primary beneficiary of an entity that is a variable interest entity (“VIE”), as defined in ASC 810, the VIE must be consolidated into the financial statements of the reporting entity. The determination of which owner is the primary beneficiary of a VIE requires management to make significant estimates and judgments about the rights, obligations, and economic interests of each interest holder in the VIE.

 

The Company evaluates its interests in VIE’s on an ongoing basis and consolidates any VIE in which it has a controlling financial interest and is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. A controlling financial interest has both of the following characteristics: (i) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance; and (ii) the obligation to absorb losses of the VIE that could potentially be significant to it or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could be significant to the VIE.

 

Effective April 1, 2014, the Company’s stockholder was transferred the controlling interest of Strike the Gold Foods, Ltd. (“Strike”), a related party entity which holds the Company’s inventory on consignment in United Kingdom (see Note 3). The Company evaluated its interest in Strike and determined that Strike is a VIE due to the Company’s implicit interest in Strike and the fact that Strike and the Company were under common control after the transfer of the controlling interest. Moreover, the Company determined that it is the primary beneficiary of Strike due to the fact that the Company had both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Strike and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from Strike. Therefore, the Company consolidated Strike in its financial statements starting as of April 1, 2014, the effective date of the controlling interest transfer.

 

During the third quarter of 2020, the Company determined that Strike was no longer a VIE because there was a verbal agreement with Strike that terminated the original agreement to hold the inventory on consignment and Strike has not engaged in transactions with the Company or its subsidiaries in 2020.

 

F-7
 

 

The Company also evaluated its interest in three related party entities that are under common control with the Company, Bacolod Blue Star Export Corp. (“Bacolod”), Bicol Blue Star Export Co. (“Bicol”) and John Keeler Real Estate Holding (“JK Real Estate”), in light of ASC 810. The Company purchases inventory from Bacolod, an exporter of pasteurized crab meat out of the Philippines. The Company purchased inventory, via Bacolod, from Bicol. The Company leased its office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate, a landlord that is a related party through common family beneficial ownership until December 31, 2020. (see Note 7)

 

The Company determined that Bacolod and Bicol are not VIE’s as they do not meet the criteria to be considered a VIE per ASC 810. The Company does not directly or indirectly absorb any variability of Bacolod or Bicol. The relationship between the Company and Bacolod and Bicol is strictly a supplier/customer relationship (see Advances to Suppliers and Related Party accounting policy). Moreover, Bacolod and Bicol have other customers besides the Company which will allow them to sustain their operations from selling their inventory to their other customers. As the Company concluded that Bacolod and Bicol are not VIEs and the Company is not deemed their primary beneficiary, Bacolod or Bicol is not consolidated with the Company’s financial statements.

 

The Company no longer leases its office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate and no longer guarantees the mortgage on the facility and therefore is no longer considered a VIE. On December 31, 2020, this facility was sold to an unrelated third-party purchaser and the lease was terminated.

 

Cash, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

The Company maintains cash balances with financial institutions in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Company (“FDIC”) insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses on such accounts and believes it does not have a significant exposure.

 

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

 

The Company considers any cash balance in the lender designated cash collateral account as restricted cash. All cash proceeds must be deposited into cash collateral account, and will be cleared and applied to the line of credit. The Company has no access to this account, and the purpose of the funds is restricted to repayment of the line of credit. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts in the consolidated statements of cash flows:

 

 

    December 31,
2020
    December 31,
2019
 
             
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 55,644     $ 153,904  
Restricted cash     282,043       41,906  
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the cash flow statement   $ 337,687     $ 195,810  

 

Accounts Receivable

 

Accounts receivable consist of unsecured obligations due from customers under normal trade terms, usually net 30 days. The Company grants credit to its customers based on the Company’s evaluation of a particular customer’s credit worthiness.

 

Allowances for doubtful accounts are maintained for potential credit losses based on the age of the accounts receivable and the results of the Company’s periodic credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition. Receivables are written off as uncollectible and deducted from the allowance for doubtful accounts after collection efforts have been deemed to be unsuccessful. Subsequent recoveries are netted against the provision for doubtful accounts expense. The Company generally does not charge interest on receivables.

 

F-8
 

 

Receivables are net of estimated allowances for doubtful accounts and sales return and allowances. They are stated at estimated net realizable value. As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, the Company recorded sales return and allowances and refund liability of approximately $62,800 and $59,100, respectively. There was no allowance for bad debt recorded during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

Inventories

 

Substantially all of the Company’s inventory consists of packaged crab meat located at the Company’s warehouse facility as well as public cold storage facilities and merchandise in transit from suppliers. The cost of inventory is primarily determined using the specific identification method. Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using the first-in, first-out method.

 

Merchandise is purchased cost and freight shipping point and becomes the Company’s asset and liability upon leaving the suppliers’ warehouse. The Company had in-transit inventory of approximately $522,000 and $1,958,000 as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

 

The Company periodically reviews the value of items in inventory and records an allowance to reduce the carrying value of inventory to the lower of cost or market based on its assessment of market conditions, inventory turnover and current stock levels. Inventory write-downs are charged to cost of goods sold. The Company recorded an inventory allowance of approximately $71,400 and $40,800 for the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

 

Advances to Suppliers and Related Party

 

In the normal course of business, the Company may advance payments to its suppliers, inclusive of Bacolod, a related party. These advances are in the form of prepayments for products that will ship within a short window of time. In the event that it becomes necessary for the Company to return products or adjust for quality issues, the Company is issued a credit by the vendor in the normal course of business and these credits are also reflected against future shipments.

 

As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, the balance due from the related party for future shipments was approximately $1,300,000 and $1,286,000, respectively. No new purchases have been made from Bacolod since November 2020. Cost of revenue related to inventories purchased from Bacolod represented approximately $1,280,000 and $9,531,000 of total cost of revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

Fixed Assets

 

Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and are being depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset as follows:

 

Furniture and fixtures   7 to 10 years
Computer equipment   5 years
Warehouse and refrigeration equipment   10 years
Leasehold improvements   7 years
Automobile   5 years
Trade show booth   7 years

 

Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the expected life of the improvement or the remaining lease term.

 

The Company capitalizes expenditures for major improvements and additions and expenses those items which do not improve or extend the useful life of the fixed assets.

 

F-9
 

 

The Company reviews fixed assets for recoverability if events or changes in circumstances indicate the assets may be impaired. On December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company believes the carrying values of its long-lived assets are recoverable and as such, the Company did not record any impairment.

 

Other Comprehensive (loss) Income

 

The Company reports its comprehensive (loss) income in accordance with ASC 220, Comprehensive Income, which establishes standards for reporting and presenting comprehensive (loss) income and its components in a full set of financial statements. Other comprehensive (loss) income consists of net income (loss) and cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

The Company’s functional and reporting currency is the U.S. Dollars. The assets and liabilities held by the Company’s previous VIE had a functional currency other than the U.S. Dollar. In the third quarter of 2020, the VIE was assessed as no longer being a VIE. The VIE results were translated into U.S. Dollars at exchange rates in effect at the end of each reporting period. The VIE’s revenue and expenses were translated into U.S. Dollars at the average rates that prevailed during the period. The rates used in the financial statements as presented for December 31, 2020 and 2019 were 1.260 and 1.337 US dollar to UK pound sterling, respectively. The resulting net translation gains and losses are reported as foreign currency translation adjustments in stockholders’ equity as a component of comprehensive (loss) income. The Company recorded foreign currency translation adjustment of approximately $23,700 and $50,100 for the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Effective with the January 1, 2018 adoption of ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” and the associated ASUs (collectively, “Topic 606”), the Company recognizes revenue when its customer obtains control of promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration which the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The Company’s source of revenue is from importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh. We sell primarily to food service distributors. We also sell our products to wholesalers, retail establishments and seafood distributors.

 

To determine revenue recognition for the arrangements that the Company determines are within the scope of Topic 606, the Company performs the following five steps: (1) identify the contract(s) with a customer by receipt of purchase orders and confirmations sent by the Company which includes a required line of credit approval process, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract which includes shipment of goods to the customer FOB shipping point or destination, (3) determine the transaction price which initiates with the purchase order received from the customer and confirmation sent by the Company and will include discounts and allowances by customer if any, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract which is the shipment of the goods to the customer and transaction price determined in step 3 above and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation which is when the Company transfers control of the goods to the customers by shipment or delivery of the products.

 

The Company elected an accounting policy to treat shipping and handling activities as fulfillment activities. Consideration payable to a customer is recorded as a reduction of the arrangement’s transaction price, thereby reducing the amount of revenue recognized, unless the payment is for distinct goods or services received from the customer.

 

F-10
 

 

Leases

 

On January 1, 2019, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification 842 and all the related amendments using the modified retrospective method. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying the new lease standard as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the lease accounting standard in effect for those periods.

 

The new lease standard requires all leases to be reported on the balance sheet as right-of-use assets and lease obligations. We elected the practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance of the new standard that retained the lease classification and initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to adoption of the standard. We did not reassess whether any contracts entered into prior to adoption are leases or contain leases.

 

We categorize leases with contractual terms longer than twelve months as either operating or finance. Finance leases are generally those leases that would allow us to substantially utilize or pay for the entire asset over its estimated life. Assets acquired under finance leases are recorded in property and equipment, net. All other leases are categorized as operating leases. We did not have any finance leases as of December 31, 2020. Our leases generally have terms that range from three years for equipment and six to seven years for property. We elected the accounting policy to include both the lease and non-lease components of our agreements as a single component and account for them as a lease.

 

Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the fixed lease payments using a discount rate based on similarly secured borrowings available to us. Lease assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives, plus any direct costs from executing the leases. Lease assets are tested for impairment in the same manner as long-lived assets used in operations. Leasehold improvements are capitalized at cost and amortized over the lesser of their expected useful life or the lease term.

 

When we have the option to extend the lease term, terminate the lease before the contractual expiration date, or purchase the leased asset, and it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option, we consider these options in determining the classification and measurement of the lease. Costs associated with operating lease assets are recognized on a straight-line basis within operating expenses over the term of the lease.

  

The table below presents the lease-related assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheets.

 

    December 31,
2020
 
Assets        
Operating lease assets   $ 99,472  
         
Liabilities        
Current   $ 29,337  
Operating lease liabilities        
Noncurrent        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 69,844  

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

 

    Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2020
 
       
Cash used in operating activities:        
Operating leases   $ 156,582  
ROU assets recognized in exchange for lease obligations:        
Operating leases   $ 28,137  

 

The table below presents the remaining lease term and discount rates for operating leases.

 

    December 31, 2020  
Weighted-average remaining lease term        
Operating leases     3.39 years  
Weighted-average discount rate        
Operating leases     4.3 %

 

Maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020, were as follows:

 

    Operating Leases  
       
2021     33,552  
2022     33,552  
2023     26,474  
2024     15,060  
2025     -  
Thereafter     -  
Total lease payments     108,638  
Less: amount of lease payments representing interest     (9,457 )
Present value of future minimum lease payments   $ 99,181  
Less: current obligations under leases   $ (29,337 )
Non-current obligations   $ 69,844  

 

Advertising

 

The Company expenses the costs of advertising as incurred. Advertising expenses which are included in Other Operating Expenses were approximately $7,200 and $81,700, for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

F-11
 

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“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 financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Customer Concentration

 

The Company had three customers which accounted for approximately 26% of revenue in the year ended December 31, 2020. The Company had three customers which accounted for 46% of revenue during the years ended December 31, 2019. Outstanding receivables from these customers accounted for approximately 19% of the total accounts receivable as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The loss of any major customer could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial position.

 

Supplier Concentration

 

The Company had five suppliers which accounted for approximately 65% of the Company’s total purchases during the year ended December 31, 2020. These five suppliers are located in the United States, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Mexico and the Philippines, which accounted for approximately 93% of the Company’s total purchases during the year. During 2020, the Company purchased inventory from two non-affiliated Indonesian suppliers that made up the balance of 25% of the supply concentration.

 

The Company had two suppliers which accounted for approximately 42% of the Company’s total purchases during the year ended December 31, 2019, and a one-time purchase from a United States based supplier that accounted for approximately 21% of purchases. The two suppliers are located in two countries, Indonesia, and the Philippines, which accounted for approximately 65% of the Company’s total purchases during the year ended December 31, 2019. These suppliers included Bacolod, a related party, which accounted for approximately 27% of the Company’s total purchases during the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

The loss of any major supplier could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations, cash flows and financial position.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

Our financial instruments include cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses, and debt obligations. We believe the carrying values of our financial instruments approximate their fair values because they are short term in nature or payable on demand.

 

Earnings or Loss per Share

 

The Company accounts for earnings per share pursuant to ASC 260, Earnings per Share, which requires disclosure on the financial statements of “basic” and “diluted” earnings (loss) per share. Basic earnings (loss) per share are computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the year. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus common stock equivalents (if dilutive) related to stock options and warrants for each year. As further described in Footnote 6 - Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, 1,413 shares of Preferred Stock could be converted into 706,500 shares of common stock. As further described in Footnote 7 – Options & Warrants, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, 3,120,000 and 3,280,000 options may be exercised, respectively, and 353,250 warrants are exercisable.

 

As there was a net loss for the years ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, basic and diluted losses per share each year are the same.

 

F-12
 

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation”. ASC 718 requires companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments, including stock options, based on the grant-date fair value of the award and to recognize it as compensation expense over the period the employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, usually the vesting period. The Company has elected to adopt ASU 2016-09 and has a policy to account for forfeitures as they occur.

 

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards to non-employees in accordance with ASU No. 2018-07, Compensation – Stock Based Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2018-07”), which aligns accounting for share-based payments issued to nonemployees to that of employees under the existing guidance of Topic 718, with certain exceptions.

 

Related Parties

 

The Company accounts for related party transactions in accordance with ASC 850 (“Related Party Disclosures”). A party is considered to be related to the Company if the party directly or indirectly or through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the Company. Related parties also include principal owners of the Company, its management, members of the immediate families of principal owners of the Company and its management and other parties with which the Company may deal if one party controls or can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the other to an extent that one of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests. A party which can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the transacting parties or if it has an ownership interest in one of the transacting parties and can significantly influence the other to an extent that one or more of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests is also a related party.

 

As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, there was approximately $392,000 and $350,900 in interest paid to related parties notes payable. See Note 6 Debt and Note 4 Consolidation of Variable Interest Entity for further information.

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain amounts in prior year have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

 

A permits renewal payment of $8,000 was made to Bacolod during the three months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Income Taxes

 

Prior to November 8, 2018, the Company was taxed under the provisions of subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code. Under these provisions, the Company did not pay corporate federal income taxes on its taxable income but was liable for Florida corporate income taxes and Texas Franchise Tax. The shareholder was liable for individual income taxes on the Company’s taxable income. Post-merger, the Company files consolidated federal and state income tax returns.

 

F-13
 

 

Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes.

 

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.

 

The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions in “Income tax expense” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. There were no amounts related to interest and penalties recognized for the years ended December 31, 2020 or 2019.

 

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

 

ASU 2019-12 Income Taxes (Topic 740)

 

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), which is intended to simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 removes certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 and also clarifies and amends existing guidance to improve consistent application. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosure.

 

F-14
 

 

ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326)

 

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which requires entities to use a forward-looking, expected loss model to estimate credit losses. It also requires entities to consider additional disclosures related to credit quality of trade and other receivables, including information related to management’s estimate of credit allowances. ASU 2016-13 was further amended in November 2018 by ASU 2018-19, Codification Improvements to Topic 236, Financial Instrument-Credit Losses. For public business entities that are U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filers excluding smaller reporting companies, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. For all other public business entities, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods within those fiscal years. On October 16, 2019, FASB voted to delay implementation of ASU No. 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) - Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” For all other entities, the amendments are now effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company continues to evaluate the impact of these amendments to the Company’s financial position and results of operations and currently expect no material impact of the adoption of the amendments on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Note 3. Going Concern

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. Although the company has positive cash flow from operations for the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company incurred a net loss of $4,437,434, has an accumulated deficit of $13,510,517 and working capital deficit of $2,257,059, inclusive of $1,299,712 in subordinated stockholder debt. These circumstances raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s ability to increase revenues, execute on its business plan to acquire complimentary companies, raise capital, and to continue to sustain adequate working capital to finance its operations. The failure to achieve the necessary levels of profitability and cash flows would be detrimental to the Company. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.

 

Note 4. Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities

 

Effective April 1, 2014, the Company’s stockholder was transferred the controlling interest of Strike the Gold Foods Ltd. (“Strike”), a related party entity based in the United Kingdom. The Company concluded that Strike was a variable interest entity (“VIE”) and the Company was the primary beneficiary of Strike, in accordance with ASC 810, Consolidation. Therefore, the Company consolidated Strike in its financial statements. Strike’s activities were reflected in the Company’s financial statements starting on April 1, 2014, the effective date of the controlling interest transfer. The equity of Strike was classified as non-controlling interest in the Company’s financial statements since the Company is not a shareholder of Strike.

 

In the third quarter of 2020, the Company determined that Strike was no longer a VIE because there was a verbal agreement with Strike that terminated the original agreement to hold Company inventory on consignment and Strike has not engaged in transactions with the Company or its subsidiaries in 2020. In addition, as of July 1, 2020, the Company neither directly or indirectly absorbs any variability of Strike nor holds the power to direct the activities of Strike that most significantly impact its economic performance and Strike was also able to finance its activities without financial support from the Company. The Company deconsolidated Strike on July 1, 2020 and the income and loss for the VIE is recognized in the Company’s income statement through the deconsolidation date. As a result of such deconsolidation, the Company no longer recognizes the carrying value of the noncontrolling interest as a component of total shareholder’s equity resulting in a reduction of $468,673 of noncontrolling interest and $141,922 from accumulated other comprehensive income on its consolidated balance sheet. Further, the Company derecognized approximately $8,421 of effect of exchange rate changes on cash of Strike as of July 1, 2020 which is reflected in its consolidated statement of cash flows for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020. There is no other material impact on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, consolidated cash flows or consolidated statement of operations resulting from deconsolidation of Strike.

 

F-15
 

 

Pro-forma financials have not been presented because the effects were not material to the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations for all periods presented. Strike remains a related party to the Company after deconsolidation and there is a long-term receivable from Strike to the Company for $455,545 as of December 31, 2020. There were no transactions between the Company and Strike since November 2020.

 

The information below represents the assets, liabilities and non-controlling interest related to Strike as of July 1, 2020, the deconsolidation date, and December 31, 2019.

 

    July 1, 2020  
Assets   $ 100,698  
Liabilities     (427,449 )
Non-controlling interest     (468,673 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income     141,922  

 

    December 31, 2019  
Assets   $ 128,166  
Liabilities     30,649  
Non-controlling interest     (476,250 )

 

Note 5. Fixed Assets, Net

 

Fixed assets comprised the following on December 31:

 

    2020     2019  
Computer equipment   $ 90,707     $ 82,240  
Warehouse and refrigeration equipment     -       157,839  
Leasehold improvements     4,919       4,919  
Total     95,626       244,998  
Less: Accumulated depreciation     (75,562 )     (183,090 )
Fixed assets, net   $ 20,064     $ 61,908  

 

For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, depreciation expense totaled approximately $33,200 and $66,000, respectively. On December 2020, our warehouse and refrigeration equipment was sold to an unrelated party for $407,198 and the Company recorded gain on the sale of the equipment of $343,181.

 

Note 6. Debt

 

Working Capital Line of Credit

 

On August 31, 2016, the Company entered into a $14,000,000 revolving line of credit pursuant to a loan and security agreement with ACF Finco I, LP (“ACF”), the proceeds of which were used to pay off the prior line of credit, pay new loan costs of approximately $309,000, and provide additional working capital to the Company. This facility was secured by all assets of John Keeler & Co., Inc. and was amended on November 18, 2016, June 19, 2017, October 16, 2017, September 19, 2018, November 8, 2018, July 29, 2019, November 26, 2019 and May 7, 2020.

 

Interest on the line of credit was equal to the greater of 3 Month LIBOR rate plus 9.25%, the Prime rate plus 6.0% or a fixed rate of 6.5%.

 

The ACF line of credit agreement was subject to the following terms:

 

  Borrowing is based on up to 85% of eligible accounts receivable plus the net orderly liquidation value of eligible inventory at the same rate, subject to certain defined limitations.
  The line is collateralized by substantially all the assets and property of the Company and is personally guaranteed by the stockholder of the Company.
  The Company is restricted to specified distribution payments, use of funds, and is required to comply with certain other covenants including certain financial ratios.
  All cash received by the Company is applied against the outstanding loan balance.
  A subjective acceleration clause allows ACF to call the note upon a material adverse change.

 

F-16
 

 

On November 26, 2019, Inc. the Company entered into the seventh amendment to the loan and security agreement with ACF. This amendment memorialized the acquisition of Coastal Pride and made Coastal Pride a co-borrower to the facility. Additionally, the seventh amendment waived and reset the covenant default that occurred during 2019 and extended the term of the facility to 5 years and is subject to early termination by the lender upon defined events of default. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company was in violation of its minimum EBITDA covenant as well as exceeding the covenant related to monies advanced to Bacolod by approximately $105,000. The default interest rate increase of 3% was implemented in April 2020.

 

On May 7, 2020, the Company entered into an eighth amendment to the loan and security agreement with ACF which acknowledged the execution of a Payroll Protection Program loan and provided a reservation of rights related to a default of the minimum EBITDA covenant.

 

The Company analyzed the Line of Credit modification under ASC 470-50-40-21 and determined that the modification did not trigger any additional accounting due to the revolving line of credit remain unchanged.

 

As of December 31, 2020, the line of credit bears interest rate of 12.48%.

 

As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, the line of credit had an outstanding balance of approximately $1,805,000 and $6,918,000, respectively.

 

The Company amortizes loan costs on a straight-line basis, which approximates the interest method, over the term of the credit facility. The Company added loan costs associated with the working capital lines of credit of approximately $70,000 and $25,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, leaving balances in the asset of $2,992 and $5,470, respectively, net of approximately $585,000 and $513,000 of accumulated amortization as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company recorded amortization expense of approximately $72,000 and $129,000 during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

On March 31, 2021, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into a loan and security agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse Financial Corp., a North Carolina corporation (“Lighthouse”) and the loan with ACF was extinguished.

 

John Keeler Promissory Notes - Subordinated

 

The Company had unsecured promissory notes outstanding to its stockholder of approximately $1,299,700 and $2,910,000 as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These notes are payable on demand, bear an annual interest rate of 6% and are subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments were not permitted under the subordination agreement with ACF, that was effective August 31, 2016. During 2020, a principal payment of approximately $17,000 was made. An additional principal settlement of $1,593,300 was made in December 2020 by the issuance of 796,650 shares of common stock to the noteholder. No principal payments were made by the Company during 2019.

 

Kenar Note

 

On March 26, 2019, the Company issued a four-month promissory note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Kenar Note”) to Kenar Overseas Corp., a company registered in Panama (“Kenar”), the term of which was previously extended to March 31, 2020 after which time, on May 21, 2020, the Kenar Note was amended to (i) set the maturity date at March 31, 2021, (ii) provide that the Company use one-third of any capital raise from the sale of its equity to reduce the outstanding principal under the Kenar Note, (iii) set the interest rate at 18% per annum, payable monthly commencing October 1, 2020, and (iv) reduce the number of pledged shares by Mr. Keeler to 4,000,000. As consideration for Kenar’s agreement to amend the note, on May 27, 2020, the Company issued 1,021,266 shares of common stock to Kenar. The outstanding principal amount of the note on December 31, 2020 was $872,500.

 

F-17
 

 

The amendment to the Kenar Note was analyzed under ASC 470-50 and was determined that it will be accounted for as an extinguishment of the old debt and the new debt recorded at fair value with the new effective interest rate of 18%. Additionally, this treatment resulted in the cost of the modification paid in common stock with a value of $2,655,292 charged to other expense as of the date of the amendment as a non-cash forbearance fee.

 

Interest expense for the Kenar Note totaled approximately $177,700 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Lobo Note

 

On April 2, 2019, the Company issued a four-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 (the “Lobo Note”) to Lobo Holdings, LLLP, a stockholder in the Company (“Lobo”). The Lobo Note bears interest at the rate of 18% per annum. The Lobo Note may be prepaid in whole or in part without penalty. John Keeler, the Company’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, pledged 1,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company to secure the Company’s obligations under the Lobo Note. The Lobo Note matured on August 2, 2019 and was extended through December 2, 2019 on the same terms and conditions. On November 15, 2019, the Company paid off the Lobo Note with the issuance to Lobo of an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which bears interest at the rate of 15% and matured on March 31, 2020. On April 1, 2020 the Company paid off the November 15, 2019 note with the issuance of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% and matured on October 1, 2020. On October 1, 2020, the Company paid off the April 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a three-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% and matured on December 31, 2020. On January 1, 2021, the Company paid off the October 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on June 30, 2021.

 

Interest expense for the Lobo Note totaled approximately $11,200 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Walter Lubkin Jr. Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a five-year unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $500,000 to Walter Lubkin Jr. as part of the purchase price for the acquisition of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. The note bears and interest rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable quarterly based on an amount equal to the lesser of (i) $25,000 or (ii) 25% of the EBITDA of Coastal Pride, as determined on the first day of each quarter. The first payment was scheduled for February 26, 2020, however, the EBITDA generated for Coastal during the 3 months did not warrant a principal payment. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during 2020.

 

Interest expense for the Walter Lubkin Jr. note totaled approximately $20,100 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Walter Lubkin III Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $87,842 to Walter Lubkin III as part the purchase price for the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during 2020.

 

Interest expense for the Walter Lubkin III note totaled approximately $3,500 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

F-18
 

 

Tracy Greco Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $71,372 to Tracy Greco as part of the purchase price for the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during 2020.

 

Interest expense for the Tracy Greco note totaled approximately $2,800 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

John Lubkin Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $50,786 to John Lubkin as part the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during 2020.

 

Interest expense for the John Lubkin note totaled approximately $2,000 during the year ended December 31, 2020.

 

Payroll Protection Program Loan

 

On April 17, 2020, the Company issued an unsecured promissory note to US Century Bank in the principal amount of $344,762 related to the CARES Act Payroll Protection Program (“PPP Loan”). This note is fully guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) and may be forgivable provided that certain criteria are met. The note has a two-year maturity and accrues interest at 1% per annum. The Company is required to make payments on the remaining principal of the note net of any loan forgiveness beginning November 17, 2020. In September 2020, the Company applied for the loan forgiveness by SBA through US Century Bank for the full amount which was granted in November 2020 and was recognized as other income in the consolidated statement of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020.

 

HSBC Loan

 

On May 13, 2020, the Company through Strike, its former variable interest entity, issued a six-year unsecured promissory note to HSBC Bank plc in the principal amount of $43,788 related to the Bounce Back Loan Scheme, managed by the British Business Bank. This note is fully guaranteed by the UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and accrues interest at 2.5% per annum. As a result of the deconsolidation of Strike as a VIE during the third quarter of 2020, the note is no longer debt of the Company.

 

Note 7. Business Combination

 

Merger with Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company completed its merger with Coastal Pride Company, Inc. Under the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization, the Company paid $3.7 million in consideration including approximately $394,600 in cash, the issuance of $2.59 million of its common stock, the issuance of a $500,000 4% unsecured promissory note and $210,000 4% unsecured convertible promissory notes in exchange for all of the equity of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. The 1,295,000 shares of the Company’s common stock issued are subject to leak out agreements whereby the shareholders are unable to sell or transfer the stock for a period of one year and are permitted to transfer or sell up to 25% in each successive six-month period thereafter.

 

F-19
 

 

The transaction costs associated with this merger were $175,400 in investment banking fees paid via 87,700 shares of the common stock, $110,176 in legal fees paid in $49,535 in cash and 30,321 shares of common stock. The common stock for these transaction costs were issued subsequent to December 31, 2019.

 

Fair Value of Consideration Transferred and Recording of Assets Acquired

 

The following table summarizes the acquisition date fair value of the consideration paid, identifiable assets acquired, and liabilities assumed including an amount for goodwill:

 

Consideration Paid:        
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 394,622  
Common stock, 1,295,000 shares of BSFC common stock     2,590,000  
4% Unsecured promissory note     500,000  
4% Unsecured, Convertible promissory note payable to seller     210,000  
Fair value of total consideration   $ 3,694,622  
         
Recognized amount of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:        
Financial assets:        
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 133,956  
Accounts receivables     1,141,658  
Inventory     1,562,973  
Inventory Step Up     105,000  
Prepaid and other assets     134,254  
Right of Use Assets     100,640  
Property and equipment     9,713  
Identifiable intangible assets:        
Trademarks     850,000  
Customer Relationships     1,250,000  
Non-Compete Agreements     40,000  
Financial liabilities:        
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     (816,435 )
Right of Use Liability     (100,640 )
Working Capital Line of Credit     (1,161,892 )
Total identifiable net assets     3,249,227  
Goodwill     445,395  
Total net value of assets assumed   $ 3,694,622  

 

In determining the fair value of the common stock issued, the Company considered the value of the stock as estimated at the time of closing. Given that the stock was not trading at the time of closing, the Company utilized its sale of common stock from November 2018 to November, 2019 of approximately $1,000,000 in the aggregate with a valuation of $2.00 shares of common stock.

 

The transaction costs incurred in connection with the acquisition of TOBC amounted to $31,000.

 

Liabilities assumed included three mortgage loans of approximately CAD$490,000 which were paid off by the Company on July 9, 2021. The Company has one commercial loan outstanding for CAD$60,000 which is due on December 31, 2025.

 

Inventory was assessed at the time of closing as to its fair value and it was determined that a step-up analysis was necessary in order to evaluate the fair value of the inventory at the time of closing. The step up represents the net profit that would be attained when the inventory is sold. The key assumptions used in this analysis is a gross margin of 11.6% and selling costs of 4.4%, The analysis resulted in a necessary step up of $105,000 at the time of closing.

 

Goodwill represents the future economic benefit arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. The goodwill arising from the acquisition is attributable to the value of the potential expanded market opportunity with new customers. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

 

F-20
 

 

Pro Forma Information

 

The following is the unaudited pro forma information assuming all business acquisitions occurred on January 1, 2019. For all of the business acquisitions depreciation and amortization have been included in the calculation of the below pro forma information based upon the actual acquisition costs.

 

   

For the year ended

December 31,

2019

 
Revenue   $ 33,057,338  
Net Loss   $ (5,048,290 )
Basic and Diluted Loss per Share   $ (0.31 )
Basic and Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding     16,201,766  

 

The information included in the pro forma amounts is derived from historical information obtained from the sellers of the businesses. The pro forma amounts above for basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding have been adjusted to include the stock issued in connection with the acquisition of Coastal Pride.

 

Note 8. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net

 

The following table sets for the changes in the carrying amount of the Company’s goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

    2020     2019  
Balance, January 1   $ 445,395     $ -  
Acquisitions of Coastal Pride Company, Inc.     -       445,395  
Balance, December 31   $ 445,395     $ 445,395  

 

The following table sets for the components of the Company’s intangible assets on December 31, 2020:

 

    Amortization Period (Years)   Cost     Accumulated Amortization     Net Book Value  
                       
Intangible Assets Subject to amortization                            
Trademarks   14   $ 850,000     $ (61,386 )   $ 788,614  
Customer Relationships   12     1,250,000       (104,169 )     1,145,831  
Non-Compete Agreements   3     40,000       (10,829 )     29,171  
Total       $ 2,140,000     $ (176,384 )   $ 1,963,616  

 

The aggregate amortization remaining on the intangible assets as of December 31, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Intangible Amortization  
2021   $ 162,816  
2022   $ 162,816  
2023   $ 161,999  
2024   $ 152,820  
2025   $ 152,820  
Thereafter   $ 1,170,345  

 

F-21
 

 

Note 9. Stockholders’ Equity

 

Preferred Stock

 

Our Board of Directors has designated 10,000 shares of preferred stock as “8% Series A Convertible Preferred Stock”.

 

The Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (“Series A Stock”) has no maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or redemption and will remain outstanding indefinitely unless and until converted by the holder or the Company redeems or otherwise repurchases the Series A Stock.

 

Dividends. Cumulative dividends accrue on each share of Series A Stock at the rate of 8% (the “Dividend Rate”) of the purchase price of $1,000.00 per share, commencing on the date of issuance. Dividends are payable quarterly, when and if declared by the Board, beginning on September 30, 2018 (each a “Dividend Payment Date”) and are payable in shares of common stock (a “PIK Dividend”) with such shares being valued at the daily volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the common stock for the thirty trading days immediately prior to each Dividend Payment Date or if not traded or quoted as determined by an independent appraiser selected in good faith by the Company. Any fractional shares of a PIK Dividend will be rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of a share. All shares of common stock issued in payment of a PIK Dividend will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable. Dividends will accumulate whether or not the Company has earnings, there are funds legally available for the payment of those dividends and whether or not those dividends are declared by the Board.

 

F-22
 

 

Dividends of common stock were authorized for issuance to the stockholders in accordance with the terms of the Certificate of Designation for the Series A Stock on March 31, 2020, June 30, 2020, September 29, 2020, and December 31, 2020. The dividends resulted in the issuance of an aggregate of 52,286 shares of common stock with a value of $113,040. On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 11,975 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend for the quarter ended March 31, 2021.

 

Conversion. Each share of Series A Stock is convertible at any time and in the sole discretion of the holder, into shares of common stock at a conversion rate of 500 shares of common stock for each share of Series A Stock (the “Conversion Rate”) The Company analyzed the embedded conversion option for derivative accounting consideration under ASC 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging” and determined that the conversion option should be classified as equity.

 

Common Stock

 

The Company is authorized to issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock at a par value of $.0001 and had 19,580,721 and 17,589,705 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

On January 29, 2019, the Company’s board of directors approved a private placement memorandum offering up to $300,000 or 150,000 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share.

 

On May 16, 2019, the Company issued 5,500 shares valued at $2.00 per share for a total value of $11,000 to certain employees as an incentive bonus.

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued 1,295,000 shares, valued at $2.00 per share for a total value of $2,590,000 in connection with the acquisition of Coastal Pride.

 

Dividends of common stock were authorized for issuance to the Series A preferred stockholders in accordance with the terms of the Certificate of Designation for the Series A Stock on March 31, 2019, June 30, 2019, September 20, 2019 and December 31, 2019. The dividends resulted in the issuances of an aggregate of 56,520 shares of common stock with a value of $113,041 during 2019.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued 11,000 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share in a private placement offering.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company issued 22,500 shares of common stock valued at $45,000 for legal and consulting fees. Additionally, the Company authorized an aggregate of 176,021 shares with a value of $352,042 for legal and consulting fees that were issued subsequent to December 31, 2019.

 

On May 27, 2020, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share in a private placement offering.

 

On May 27, 2020, the Company issued 1,021,266 shares of common stock to Kenar at $2.60 per share as a forbearance fee.in connection with Kenar’s agreement to amend its outstanding promissory note.

 

On December 30, 2020, the Company issued 796,650 shares of common stock to John Keeler’s designee as partial payment of outstanding notes payable totaling to $1,593,300.

 

Dividends of common stock were issued to the Series A preferred stockholders in accordance with the terms of the Certificate of Designation for the Series A Stock on March 31, 2020, June 30, 2020, September 29, 2020 and December 31, 2020. The dividends resulted in the issuances of an aggregate of 52,286 shares of common stock with a value of $113,040 during 2020.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued 115,814 shares of common stock valued at $189,000 for legal and consulting fees.

 

On July 1, 2020, the Company entered into an investment banking engagement agreement, as amended on October 30, 2020, with Newbridge Securities Corporation. In consideration for advisory services, the Company agreed to issue Newbridge a total of 60,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $138,000 which is amortized to expense over the term of the agreement. The Company recognized stock compensation expense of $69,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 in connection with these shares.

 

On February 8, 2021, the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $25,250 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock with a fair value of $24,697 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $11,800 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 11,975 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend with an aggregate fair value of $28,260 for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

 

On April 15, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 16,460 shares of common stock to Walter Lubkin Jr., Walter Lubkin III, Tracy Greco and John Lubkin (collectively, the “Coastal Sellers”) in lieu of $39,504 of outstanding interest under promissory notes issued by the Company to the Coastal Sellers in connection with the Coastal Pride acquisition.

 

On April 19, 2021, the Company issued 12,500 shares of common stock with a fair value of $25,000 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On April 29, 2021, the Company issued 105,757 shares of common stock to Kenar Overseas Corp. in lieu of $227,378 of outstanding interest under the Kenar Note.

 

On April 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $28,500 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On May 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $31,500 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 17, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 475,000 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to four accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $950,000.

 

On June 23, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate 212,750 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to twenty-seven accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $425,000.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company issued 987,741 shares to the sellers of TOBC as partial consideration for the sale of TOBC to the Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $36,250 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock with a fair value of $75,871 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 706,500 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders upon conversion of an aggregate 1,413 shares of Series A preferred stock.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 598,750 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to twenty-six accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $1,198,000.

 

F-23
 

 

Note 10. Options

 

During the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, approximately $139,380 and $2,251,300, respectively, in compensation expense was recognized on the following:

 

1. Ten-year options to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00, which vest one year from the date of grant, were issued to Christopher Constable, the Company’s former Chief Financial Officer, under the 2018 Plan during the twelve months ended December 31, 2018 and have vested during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.
2. Ten-year options to purchase 430,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00, which vest as to 25% of the shares subject to the option each year from the date of grant, were issued to various long-term employees under the 2018 Plan during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.
3. Ten-year options to purchase 250,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00, which vest as to 20% of the shares subject to the option each year from the date of grant, were issued to Zoty Ponce under the 2018 Plan during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.
4. Ten-year options to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00, which vest as to 25% of the shares subject to the option each year from the date of grant, were issued to various contractors during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

 

The following table summarizes the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the stock options granted for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 since no options were granted for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020:

 

    2019  
Expected Volatility     39%48 %
Risk Free Interest Rate     2.62%2.71 %
Expected life of options     6.2510.0  

 

Under the Black-Scholes option pricing model, the fair value of the 705,000 options granted during the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 was estimated at $613,586 on the date of grant. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the unrecognized portion of the expense remaining outstanding was $327,852 and $467,232, respectively. The weighted average period of unrecognized stock options compensation that is expected to be recognized as expense is approximately 7 years. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, an aggregate of 15,000 shares subject to options were forfeited, none of which shares were vested, which resulted in a reversal of the expense of $2,263.

 

F-24
 

 

The following table represents option activity for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:

 

    Number of Options     Weighted Average Exercise Price     Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years     Aggregate Intrinsic Value  
Outstanding - December 31, 2018     6,240,000     $ 1.17       9.86          
Exercisable - December 31, 2018     3,120,000     $ 0.33       9.86     $ 5,210,400  
Granted     705,000     $ 2.00                  
Forfeited     (3,135,000 )   $ 0.00                  
Vested     3,120,000                          
Outstanding - December 31, 2019     3,810,000     $ 2.00       8.86          
Exercisable - December 31, 2019     3,120,000     $ 2.00       8.86     $ 984,000  
Granted     -     $ -                  
Forfeited     -     $ -                  
Vested     3,280,000       -                  
Outstanding - December 31, 2020     3,810,000     $ 2.00       7.87          
Exercisable - December 31, 2020     3,280,000     $ 2.00       7.87     $ 721,600  

 

The non-vested options outstanding are 530,000 and 690,000 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

Note 11. Warrants

 

During the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company did not have any warrant activity.

 

    Number of Warrants     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
    Weighted Average Remaining Contractual
Life in
Years
    Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
 
Outstanding – December 31, 2020     353,250     $ 2.40       0.85                   
Exercisable – December 31, 2020     353,250     $ 2.40       0.85     $ -  
Granted     1,286,500     $ -                  
Forfeited or Expired     -     $ -                  
Outstanding – June 30, 2021     1,639,750     $ 2.09       2.39          
Exercisable – June 30, 2021     1,639,750     $ 2.09       2.39     $ 8,467,388  

As of June 30, 2021, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,286,500 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to fifty-seven accredited investors that expire in June 2024.

 

F-25
 

 

Note 12. Income taxes 

 

Allocation of federal and state income taxes between current and deferred portions is as follows:

 

Components of Tax Expense   December 31, 2020     December 31, 2019  
             
Current - Federal   $ -       -  
Current - State     1,122       4,413  
Deferred - Federal     -       -  
Deferred - State     -       -  
                 
Income Tax Provision/(Benefit)   $ 1,122     $ 4,413  

 

Federal income tax expense differs from the statutory federal rates of 21% for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 due to the following:

 

Rate Reconciliation   December 31, 2020           December 31, 2019        
                         
Provision/(Benefit) at Statutory Rate   $ (931,861 )     21.00 %   $ (1,054,558 )     21.00 %
State Tax Provision/(Benefit) net of federal benefit     (169,277 )     3.85 %     (179,449 )     4.03 %
Permanent Book/Tax Differences     1,283       (0.03 )%     14,603       (0.29 )%
Change in valuation allowance     992,311       (22.36 )%     1,222,042       (24.34 )%
Other     108,667       (2.45 )%     1,775       (0.04 )%
                                 
Income Tax Provision/(Benefit)   $ 1,122       0.01 %   $ 4,413       0.37 %

 

The components of the net deferred tax asset on December 31, 2020 and 2019, are as follows:

 

    December 31, 2020     December 31, 2019  
Deferred Tax Assets                
263A Unicap   $ 26,923     $ 90,539  
Fixed Assets     31,830       27,754  
Charitable Contribution Carryforward     269       121  
Intangibles     70,173       18,287  
Inventory Reserve     17,761       (362 )
Business Interest Limitation     637,897       417,904  
Stock based compensation     684,800       661,359  
Federal Net Operating loss     879,150       254,079  
State Net Operating Loss     156,004       42,814  
Total Deferred Tax Assets     2,504,807       1,512,495  
Net Deferred Tax Asset/(Liability)     2,504,807       1,512,495  
Valuation Allowance     (2,504,807 )     (1,512,495 )
Net Deferred Tax Asset/(Liability)   $ -     $ -  

 

F-26
 

 

Tax periods for all fiscal years after 2017 remain open to examination by the federal and state taxing jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has federal net operating loss of $4,186,428 to carry forward indefinitely.

 

ASC 740, “Income Taxes” requires that a valuation allowance be established when it is “more likely than not” that all, or a portion of, deferred tax assets will not be recognized. A review of all available positive and negative evidence needs to be considered, including the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies. After consideration of all the information available, management believes that uncertainty exists with respect to future realization of its deferred tax assets and has, therefore, established a full valuation allowance as of December 31, 2020.

 

As of December 31, 2020, and 2019, the Company has evaluated and concluded that there were no material uncertain tax positions requiring recognition in the Company’s financial statements. The Company’s policy is to classify assessments, if any, for tax related interest as income tax expenses. No interest or penalties were recorded during the years ended December 31, 2020, and 2019.

 

Note 13. Commitment and Contingencies

 

Office lease

 

The Company leased its Miami office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate, a related party through common family beneficial ownership (see Note 2). The lease which had a 20-year term, expiring in July 2021 was terminated on December 31, 2020, upon the sale of the facility. The Company was a guarantor of the mortgage on the facility which had a zero balance on December 31, 2020. Therefore, the Company did not record any liability related to the mortgage in the consolidated financial statements as the Company will not be called upon to perform under any guarantee, in accordance with ASC 460, Guarantees.

 

The Company leases approximately 3,000 square feet in Beaufort South Carolina for the offices of Coastal Pride. This office space consists of two leases with related parties with approximately four years remaining on the leases.

 

See Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements under ASC 842 Leases regarding the disclosure of the future period amortizations of the Right of Use assets.

 

Rental and equipment lease expenses were approximately $239,600 and $237,400 for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

Legal

 

The Company has reached a settlement agreement with a former employee. Although the agreement is not finalized the Company has reserved for the entire amount of the settlement.

 

Note 14. COVID-19 Pandemic

 

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) had become a pandemic, and on March 13, 2020, the U.S. President declared a National Emergency concerning the disease. Additionally, in March 2020, state governments in the Company’s geographic operating area began instituting preventative shut down measures in order to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic. The coronavirus and actions taken to mitigate the spread of it have had and are expected to continue to have an adverse impact on the economies and financial markets of the geographical areas in which the Company operates. On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was enacted to amongst other provisions, provide emergency assistance for individuals, families and businesses affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic for 2020 and into 2021. The Company’s business not being deemed essential resulted in decreased financial performance that may not be indicative of future financial results. Government-mandated closures of businesses and shipping delays have affected our sales and inventory purchases. The Company continues to face uncertainty and increased risks concerning its employees, customers, supply chain and government regulation. In April 2021, the U.S. government has made available the COVID-19 vaccine to most of its population to aid with the pandemic but the long-term effects of this development are yet to be seen. The Company’s sales and supply may continue to be adversely affected due to COVID-19 and plans continue to be developed to ensure a prompt response is given to address the effects of the pandemic.

 

F-27
 

 

Note 15. Employee Benefit Plan

 

The Company provides and sponsors a 401(k) plan for its employees. For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, no contributions were made to the plan by the Company.

 

Note 16. Subsequent Events

 

Common Stock

 

The Company authorized the issuance of an aggregate of 83,721 shares for quarterly legal and consulting fees to be issued subsequently to December 31, 2020.

 

On February 8, 2021, the Company issued 25,000 shares to an investment relations firm as compensation under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

Paycheck Protection Program Loan

 

On March 2, 2021, the Company received proceeds of $371,944 and issued an unsecured promissory note to US Century in the principal amount of $371,944 in connection with a PPP Loan. The note accrues interest at 1.0% per annum, matures five years from the date of issuance and is fully guaranteed by the SBA and may be forgiven provided certain criteria are met. The Company may apply for forgiveness after August 17, 2021 and may be required to make monthly payments of approximately $8,500 beginning June 2, 2022.

 

Board of Directors

 

On March 29, 2021, the board of directors increased the size of the Company’s Board from two to five members and appointed Jeffrey J. Guzy, Timothy McLellan and Trond Ringstad as directors, effective April 12, 2021, to fill the vacancies created by such increase.

 

In connection with such appointments, the Company entered into one-year director service agreements with each of Messrs. Guzy, McLellan and Ringstad and with each of the two current Board members, Nubar Herian and John Keeler which automatically renew for successive one-year terms.

 

In consideration for their services, each director will be issued $25,000 of shares of the Company’s common stock for each year’s service and on April 12, 2021, the Company granted each director an option to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share, which option vests in equal monthly installments over the course of the applicable year and will expire three years from the date they are fully vested.

 

On July 1, 2021, the Company issued to Lobo an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrues interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on September 30, 2021.

 

On July 6, 2021, the Company entered into a note payoff indemnity agreement with Kenar pursuant to which the Company paid Kenar $918,539 of principal and accrued interest in full satisfaction of the amounts due to Kenar under a Second Loan Amendment, dated April 26, 2021, between the Company and Kenar. Consequently, the Kenar Note was extinguished, and the shares pledged by Mr. Keeler were released.

 

Lighthouse Credit Facility

 

On March 31, 2021, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into a loan and security agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement, Lighthouse made available to Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride (together, the “Borrowers”) a $5,000,000 revolving line of credit for a term of thirty-six months, renewable annually for one-year periods thereafter. Amounts due under the line of credit are represented by a revolving credit note issued to Lighthouse by the Borrowers.

 

The advance rate of the revolving line of credit is 85% with respect to eligible accounts receivable and the lower of 60% of the Borrowers’ eligible inventory, or 80% of the net orderly liquidation value, subject to an inventory sublimit of $2,500,000. The inventory portion of the loan will never exceed 50% of the outstanding balance. Interest on the line of credit is the prime rate (with a floor of 3.25%), plus 3.75%. The Borrowers paid Lighthouse a facility fee of $50,000 and will pay an additional facility fee of $25,000 on each anniversary of March 31, 2021.

 

The line of credit is secured by a first priority security interest on all the assets of each Borrower. Pursuant to the terms of a guaranty agreement, the Company guaranteed the obligations of the Borrowers under the note and John Keeler, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, provided a personal guaranty of up to $1,000,000 to Lighthouse.

 

 

On July 8, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 83,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 83,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to sixteen accredited investors for gross proceeds of $167,500.

  

On July 14, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 129,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 129,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to four accredited investors for gross proceeds of $259,500.

 

The Borrowers utilized $784,450 borrowed from Lighthouse to repay all the outstanding indebtedness owed to the ACF as of March 31, 2021. As a result, all obligations owed to ACF were satisfied and the loan agreement with ACF was terminated.

 

F-28
 

 

The accompanying unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and the rules of the SEC, and should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto contained in our Annual Report, as updated in subsequent filings we have made with the SEC. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of financial position and the results of operations for the periods presented have been reflected herein. The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

    JUNE 30,
2021
    DECEMBER 31, 2020  
    Unaudited        
ASSETS                
CURRENT ASSETS                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 1,630,732     $ 55,644  
Restricted cash     -       282,043  
Accounts receivable, net     610,355       1,082,468  
Inventory, net     582,762       1,832,661  
Advances to related party     1,299,984       1,299,984  
Other current assets     250,795       176,925  
Total Current Assets     4,374,628       4,729,725  
RELATED PARTY LONG-TERM RECEIVABLE     455,545       455,545  
FIXED ASSETS, net     2,045,375       20,064  
RIGHT OF USE ASSET     85,300       99,472  
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net                
Trademarks     1,166,432       788,614  
Customer relationships     2,551,770       1,145,831  
Non-compete agreements     121,649       29,171  
Total Intangible Assets     3,839,851       1,963,616  
GOODWILL     924,672       445,395  
OTHER ASSETS     139,349       108,088  
TOTAL ASSETS   $ 11,864,720     $ 7,821,905  
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)                
CURRENT LIABILITIES                
Accounts payable and accruals   $ 542,918     $ 1,607,490  
Working capital line of credit     631,958       1,805,907  
Current maturities of long-term debt     92,986       -  
Current maturities of lease liabilities     29,960       29,337  
Current maturities of related party long-term notes     764,657       195,000  
Related party notes payable     972,500       972,500  
Related party notes payable - subordinated     1,299,712       1,299,712  
Other current liabilities     1,168,740       1,346,838  
Total Current Liabilities     5,503,431       7,256,784  
LONG-TERM LIABILITY                
Long-term lease liability     54,976       69,844  
Long-term debt     353,512       -  
Related party long-term notes     460,000       515,000  
Other long-term liabilities     97,376       -  
TOTAL LIABILITIES     6,469,295       7,841,628  
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)                
Series A 8% cumulative convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, 0 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021, and 1,413 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2020     -       -  
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 23,119,041 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2021, and 19,580,721 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2020     2,315       1,958  
Additional paid-in capital     19,846,182       13,488,836  
Accumulated other comprehensive gain     936       -  
Accumulated deficit     (14,454,008 )     (13,510,517 )
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)     5,395,425       (19,723 )
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (DEFICIT)   $ 11,864,720     $ 7,821,905  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

F-29
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021 and 2020

 

    2021     2020     2021     2020  
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    (unaudited)     (unaudited)  
    2021     2020     2021     2020  
REVENUE, NET   $ 2,129,389     $ 2,865,103     $ 4,615,280     $ 7,436,717  
COST OF REVENUE     1,559,490       2,882,541       3,742,602       7,030,939  
                                 
GROSS PROFIT     569,899       (17,438 )     872,678       405,778  
                                 
COMMISSIONS     13,606       25,534       18,400       92,363  
SALARIES AND WAGES     228,859       241,072       609,455       650,253  
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION     55,911       153,195       99,990       230,960  
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES     638,585       158,749       955,983       605,182  
                                 
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS     (367,062 )     (595,988 )     (811,150 )     (1,172,980 )
                                 
OTHER INCOME     28,672       -       105,190       -  
FORBEARANCE FEE EXPENSE (NON-CASH)     -       (2,655,292 )     -       (2,655,292 )
INTEREST EXPENSE     (98,737 )     (239,653 )     (209,271 )     (516,308 )
                                 
NET LOSS     (437,127 )     (3,490,933 )     (915,231 )     (4,344,580 )
                                 
LESS: NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST     -       10,817       -       7,577  
                                 
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.   $ (437,127 )   $ (3,501,750 )   $ (915,231 )   $ (4,352,157 )
                                 
DIVIDEND ON PREFERRED STOCK     -       28,261       28,260       56,520  
                                 
NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP. COMMON SHAREHOLDERS   $ (437,127 )   $ (3,530,011 )   $ (943,491 )   $ (4,408,677 )
                                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):                                
                                 
CHANGE IN FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENT     936       -       936       -  
                                 
TRANSLATION ADJUSTMENT ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST     -       9,094       -       23,700  
                                 
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)   $ 936     $ 19,911     $ 936     $ 31,277  
                                 
COMPREHENSIVE LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.   $ (436,191 )   $ (3,501,750 )   $ (914,295 )   $ (4,352,157 )
                                 
Loss per basic and diluted common share:                                
Basic net loss per common share   $ (0.02 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.05 )   $ (0.24 )
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding     19,758,871       17,822,158       19,739,841       18,054,611  
Fully diluted net loss per common share   $ (0.02 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.05 )   $ (0.24 )
Fully diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     19,758,871       17,822,158       19,739,841       18,054,611  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

F-30
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT (UNAUDITED)

THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2021 AND 2020

 

    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  
    Series A Preferred Stock $.0001 par value     Common Stock $.0001 par value      Additional Paid-in      Accumulated     Accumulated Other Comprehensive     Total Blue Star Foods Corp. Stockholders’     Non-Controlling     Total Stockholders’  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  
December 31, 2020     1,413     $ -       19,580,721     $ 1,958     $ 13,488,836     $ (13,510,517 )   $ -     $ (19,723 )   $ -     $ (19,723 )
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       30,319       -       -       30,319       -       30,319  
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     -       -       11,975       1       28,259       (28,260 )     -       -       -       -  
Common stock issued for service     -       -       40,465       5       96,242       -       -       96,247       -       96,247  
Net Loss     -       -       -       -       -       (478,104 )     -       (478,104 )     -       (478,104 )
March 31, 2021     1,413     $ -       19,633,161     $ 1,964     $ 13,643,656     $ (14,016,881 )   $ -     $ (371,261 )   $ -     $ (371,261 )
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       66,170       -       -       66,170       -       66,170  
Common stock issued to settle related party interest     -       -       122,217       13       266,869       -       -       266,882       -       266,882  
Common stock issued for cash     -       -       1,286,500       129       2,572,871       -       -       2,573,000       -       2,573,000  
Common stock issued for service     -       -       37,965       5       231,616       -       -       231,621       -       231,621  
Common stock issued to be held in escrow     -       -       344,957       34       793,366       -       -       793,400       -       793,400  
Common stock issued for Taste of BC acquisition     -       -       987,741       99       2,271,705       -       -       2,271,804       -       2,271,804  
Preferred stock conversion to Common stock     (1,413 )     -       706,500       71       (71 )     -       -       -       -       -  
Net Loss     -       -       -       -       -       (437,127 )     -       (437,127 )     -       (437,127 )
Comprehensive Income     -       -       -       -       -       -       936       936       -       936  
June 30, 2021     -     $ -       23,119,041     $ 2,315     $ 19,846,182     $ (14,454,008 )   $ 936     $ 5,395,425     $ -     $ 5,395,425  

 

    Series A Preferred Stock $.0001 par value     Common Stock $.0001 par value     Additional Paid-in     Accumulated     Accumulated Other Comprehensive      Total Blue Star Foods Corp. Stockholders’     Non-Controlling     Total Stockholders’   
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Income     Deficit     Interest     Deficit  
December 31, 2019     1,413     $ -       17,589,705     $ 1,761     $ 8,789,021     $ (8,952,466 )   $ -     $ (161,684 )   $ (358,028 )   $       (519,712 )
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       34,846       -                  -       34,846       -       34,846  
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     -       -       14,130       1       28,258       (28,259 )     -       -       -       -  
Net Loss     -       -       -       -       -       (850,407 )     -       (850,407 )     (3,240 )     (853,647 )
Comprehensive Income     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       14,606       14,606  
March 31, 2020     1,413     $ -       17,603,835     $ 1,762     $ 8,852,125     $ (9,831,132 )   $ -     $ (977,245 )   $ (346,662 )   $ (1,323,907 )
Stock based compensation     -       -       -       -       34,846       -       -       34,846       -       34,846  
Common stock issued for cash     -       -       5,000       1       9,999       -       -       10,000       -       10,000  
Common stock issued to a related party lender     -       -       1,021,266       102       2,655,190       -       -       2,655,292       -       2,655,292  
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     -       -       12,287       1       28,260       (28,261 )     -       -       -       -  
Net Income (Loss)     -       -       -       -       -       (3,501,750 )     -       (3,501,750 )     10,817       (3,490,933 )
Comprehensive Income     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       -       9,094       9,094  
June 30, 2020     1,413     $       -       18,642,388     $ 1,866     $ 11,580,420     $ (13,361,143 )   $ -     $ (1,778,857 )   $ (326,751 )   $ (2,105,608 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

F-31
 

 

Blue Star Foods Corp.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30,

 

    2021     2020  
    Unaudited  
    2021     2020  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                
                 
Net Loss   $ (915,231 )   $ (4,344,580 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided in operating activities:                
Stock based compensation     96,489       69,692  
Common stock issued for service     327,868       -  
Common stock issued for forbearance fee     -       2,655,292  
Depreciation of fixed assets     2,170       18,247  
Amortization of right of use asset     -       87,308  
Amortization of intangible assets     85,320       81,088  
Amortization of loan costs     12,500       51,977  
Deferred taxes     -       8,361  
Lease expense     14,172       -  
Bad debt expense     1,727       13,474  
Allowance for inventory obsolescence     375       370,203  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Accounts receivables     490,745       726,867  
Inventories     1,322,975       4,147,203  
Advances to affiliated supplier     -     (18,938 )
Other current assets     (62,504 )     25,553  
Right of use liability     (14,245 )     (77,824 )
Other assets     (47,673 )     -  
Accounts payable and accruals     (797,690 )     (708,137 )
Other current liabilities     (205,291 )     -  
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities     311,707       3,105,786  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                
Net cash paid for acquisition     (790,593 )     -  
Purchases of fixed assets     -     (47,179 )
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities     (790,593 )     (47,179 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                
Proceeds from common stock offering     2,573,000       10,000  
Proceeds from working capital line of credit     4,323,678       3,223,081  
Proceeds from PPP loan     371,944       -  
Proceeds from notes payable     -       388,550  
Repayments of working capital line of credit     (5,497,627 )     (6,777,035 )
Payments of loan costs     -       (70,000 )
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities     1,770,995       (3,225,404 )
                 
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash     936       23,700  
                 
NET DECREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH     1,293,045       (143,097 )
                 
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - BEGINNING OF PERIOD     337,687       195,810  
                 
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - END OF PERIOD   $ 1,630,732     $ 52,713  
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH ACTIVITY                
Series A preferred 8% dividend issued in common stock     28,260       56,520  
Operating lease assets recognized in exchange for operating lease liabilities     -       28,137  
Preferred shares conversion to common stock     71          
Common stock issued for interest payment     266,882       -  
Shares issued for acquisition     3,065,204       -  
Related party notes recognized from business acquisition     162,400       -  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information                
Cash paid for interest   $ 339,747     $ 516,308  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited consolidated financial statements

 

F-32
 

 

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 1. Company Overview

 

Blue Star Foods Corp. (“we”, “our”, the “Company”) is an international seafood company based in Miami, Florida that imports, packages and sells refrigerated pasteurized crab meat, and other premium seafood products. The Company’s main operating business, John Keeler & Co., Inc. (“Keeler & Co.”) was incorporated in the State of Florida in May 1995. The Company was formed under the laws of the State of Delaware. The Company’s current source of revenue is importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh, and steelhead salmon produced under the brand name Little Cedar Farms for distribution in Canada.

 

On November 26, 2019, Keeler & Co., a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of the Company, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the “Coastal Merger Agreement”) with Coastal Pride Company, Inc., a South Carolina corporation, Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC, a Florida limited liability company and newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Purchaser (the “Acquisition Subsidiary” and, upon the effective date of the Merger, the “Surviving Company” or “Coastal Pride”), and The Walter F. Lubkin, Jr. Irrevocable Trust dated January 8, 2003 (the “Trust”), Walter F. Lubkin III (“Lubkin III”), Tracy Lubkin Greco (“Greco”) and John C. Lubkin (“Lubkin”), constituting all of the shareholders of Coastal Pride Company, Inc. immediately prior to the Coastal Merger (collectively, the “Sellers”). Pursuant to the terms of the Coastal Merger Agreement, Coastal Pride Company, Inc. merged with and into the Acquisition Subsidiary, with the Acquisition Subsidiary being the surviving company (the “Coastal Merger”).

 

Coastal Pride is a seafood company, based in Beaufort, South Carolina, that imports pasteurized and fresh crabmeat sourced primarily from Mexico and Latin America and sells premium branded label crabmeat throughout North America.

 

F-33
 

 

On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with TOBC, and Steve Atkinson and Janet Atkinson (the “Sellers”), the owners of all of the capital stock of TOBC (the “TOBC Shares”), pursuant to which the Company acquired all of the TOBC Shares from the Sellers for an aggregate purchase price of CAD$4,000,000 for: (i) an aggregate of CAD$1,000,000 in cash (with each Seller receiving a pro rata amount based upon the total number of TOBC Shares held by such Seller); (ii) promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of CAD$200,000 (the “Notes”) with the principal amount of each Seller’s Note based on such Seller’s pro rata portion of the TOBC Shares); and (iii) 987,741 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$2,800,000 of shares based on USD$2.30 per share) with each Seller receiving a pro rata portion of such shares based upon the total number of TOBC Shares held by such Seller.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Purchase Agreement was amended (the “Amendment”), to increase the Purchase Price up to an aggregate of CAD$5,000,000 and the acquisition closed. Pursuant to the Amendment, on August 3, 2021, an aggregate of 344,957 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$1,000,000 of additional shares calculated at USD$2.30 per share) was put in escrow until the 24-month anniversary of the closing. If, within 24 months of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of at least CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive all of the escrowed shares. If, as of the 24-month anniversary of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of less than CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive a prorated number of the escrowed shares based on the actual cumulative revenue of TOBC as of such date.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company consummated the acquisition of TOBC. As a result of the acquisition, TOBC became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

 

TOBC is a land-based recirculating aquaculture systems salmon farming operation, based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, which sells its steelhead salmon to distributors in Canada.

 

Note 2. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The following unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Accordingly, such interim financial statements do not include all the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for complete annual financial statements. The information furnished reflects all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring items which are, in the opinion of management, necessary in order to make the financial statements not misleading. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 has been derived from the Company’s annual financial statements that were audited by an independent registered public accounting firm but does not include all of the information and footnotes required for complete annual financial statements. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021 for a broader discussion of our business and the risks inherent in such business.

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Advances to Suppliers and Related Party

 

In the normal course of business, the Company may advance payments to its suppliers, inclusive of Bacolod Blue Star Export Corp. (“Bacolod”), a related party based in the Philippines. These advances are in the form of prepayments for products that will ship within a short window of time. In the event that it becomes necessary for the Company to return products or adjust for quality issues, the Company is issued a credit by the vendor in the normal course of business and these credits are also reflected against future shipments.

 

As of June 30, 2021, and December 31, 2020, the balance due from the related party for future shipments was approximately $1,300,000. No new purchases have been made from Bacolod during the six months ended June 30, 2021. A permits renewal payment of $8,000 was made to Bacolod during the three months ended June 30, 2021. Cost of revenue related to inventories purchased from Bacolod represented approximately $126 and $238,000 of total cost of revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

 

F-34
 

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, as such, we record revenue when our customer obtains control of the promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration which the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. The Company’s source of revenue is from importing blue and red swimming crab meat primarily from Indonesia, the Philippines and China and distributing it in the United States and Canada under several brand names such as Blue Star, Oceanica, Pacifika, Crab & Go, First Choice, Good Stuff and Coastal Pride Fresh, and steelhead salmon produced under the brand name Little Cedar Farms for distribution in Canada. The Company sells primarily to food service distributors. The Company also sells its products to wholesalers, retail establishments and seafood distributors.

 

To determine revenue recognition for the arrangements that the Company determines are within the scope of Topic 606, the Company performs the following five steps: (1) identify the contract(s) with a customer by receipt of purchase orders and confirmations sent by the Company which includes a required line of credit approval process, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract which includes shipment of goods to the customer FOB shipping point or destination, (3) determine the transaction price which initiates with the purchase order received from the customer and confirmation sent by the Company and will include discounts and allowances by customer if any, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract which is the shipment of the goods to the customer and transaction price determined in step 3 above and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation which is when the Company transfers control of the goods to the customers by shipment or delivery of the products.

 

The Company elected an accounting policy to treat shipping and handling activities as fulfillment activities. Consideration payable to a customer is recorded as a reduction of the arrangement’s transaction price, thereby reducing the amount of revenue recognized, unless the payment is for distinct goods or services received from the customer.

 

Lease Accounting

 

We account for our leases under ASC 842, Leases, which requires all leases to be reported on the balance sheet as right-of-use assets and lease obligations. We elected the practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance that retained the lease classification and initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to adoption of the standard.

 

We categorize leases with contractual terms longer than twelve months as either operating or finance. Finance leases are generally those leases that would allow us to substantially utilize or pay for the entire asset over its estimated life. Assets acquired under finance leases are recorded in property and equipment, net. All other leases are categorized as operating leases. We did not have any finance leases as of June 30, 2021. Our leases generally have terms that range from three years for equipment and five to twenty years for property. We elected the accounting policy to include both the lease and non-lease components of our agreements as a single component and account for them as a lease.

 

Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the fixed lease payments using a discount rate based on similarly secured borrowings available to us. Lease assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives, plus any direct costs from executing the lease. Lease assets are tested for impairment in the same manner as long-lived assets used in operations. Leasehold improvements are capitalized at cost and amortized over the lesser of their expected useful life or the lease term.

 

When we have the option to extend the lease term, terminate the lease before the contractual expiration date, or purchase the leased asset, and it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option, we consider these options in determining the classification and measurement of the lease. Costs associated with operating lease assets are recognized on a straight-line basis within operating expenses over the term of the lease.

 

F-35
 

 

The table below presents the lease-related assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheets.

 

   

June 30,

2021

 
Assets        
Operating lease assets   $ 85,300  
         
Liabilities        
Current        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 29,960  
Noncurrent        
Operating lease liabilities   $ 54,976  

 

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases were as follows:

 

   

Six Months Ended

June 30, 2021

 
       
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:        
Operating cash flows from operating leases   $ 14,245  
ROU assets recognized in exchange for lease obligations:        
Operating leases   $ -  

 

The table below presents the remaining lease term and discount rates for operating leases.

 

    June 30, 2021  
Weighted-average remaining lease term        
Operating leases     2.92 years  
Weighted-average discount rate        
Operating leases     4.3 %

 

Maturities of lease liabilities as of June 30, 2021, were as follows:

 

    Operating Leases  
       
2021 (six months remaining)     16,776  
2022     33,552  
2023     26,474  
2024     15,060  
2025     -  
Thereafter     -  
Total lease payments     91,862  
Less: amount of lease payments representing interest     (6,926 )
Present value of future minimum lease payments   $ 84,936  
Less: current obligations under leases   $ (29,960 )
Non-current obligations   $ 54,976  

 

Intangible Assets and Goodwill

 

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805, “Business Combinations,” where the total purchase price is allocated to the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The purchase price is allocated using the information currently available, and may be adjusted, up to one year from acquisition date, after obtaining more information regarding, among other things, asset valuations, liabilities assumed, and revisions to preliminary estimates. The purchase price in excess of the fair value of the tangible and identified intangible assets acquired less liabilities assumed is recognized as goodwill.

 

F-36
 

 

The Company reviews its indefinite lived intangibles and goodwill for impairment annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value and may not be recoverable. In accordance with its policies, the Company performed an assessment of indefinite lived intangibles and goodwill and determined there was no impairment for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates Risk

 

We manage our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates through our normal operating activities. Our primary focus is to monitor our exposure to, and manage, the economic foreign currency exchange risks faced by our operations and realized when we exchange one currency for another. Our operations primarily utilize the U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar as their functional currencies. Movements in foreign currency exchange rates affect our financial statements.

 

Note 3. Going Concern

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. For the six months ended June 30, 2021, the Company incurred a net loss of $915,231, has an accumulated deficit of $14,454,008 and working capital deficit of $1,128,803, with the current liabilities inclusive of $1,299,712 in stockholder loans that are subordinated to the provider of the working capital facility, and $29,960 in the current portion of the lease liability recognition. These circumstances raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s ability to increase revenues, execute on its business plan to acquire complimentary companies, raise capital, and to continue to sustain adequate working capital to finance its operations. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if the Company is unable to continue as a going concern.

 

Note 4. Debt

 

Working Capital Line of Credit

 

Keeler & Co entered into a $14,000,000 revolving line of credit, pursuant to a loan and security agreement with ACF Finco I, LP (“ACF”) on August 31, 2016, the proceeds of which were used to pay off the prior line of credit, pay new loan costs of approximately $309,000, and provide additional working capital to the Company. This facility is secured by all assets of Keeler & Co. This facility was amended on November 18, 2016, June 19, 2017, October 16, 2017, September 19, 2018, November 8, 2018, July 29, 2019, November 26, 2019 and May 7, 2020.

 

The line of credit accrued interest at a rate equal to the greater of 3 Month LIBOR rate plus 9.25%, the Prime rate plus 6.0% or a fixed rate of 6.5%.

 

The ACF line of credit agreement was subject to the following terms:

 

  Borrowing was based on up to 85% of eligible accounts receivable plus the net orderly liquidation value of eligible inventory at the same rate, subject to certain defined limitations.
  The line was collateralized by substantially all the assets and property of Keeler & Co. and was personally guaranteed by the stockholder of the Company.
  Keeler & Co. was restricted to specified distribution payments, use of funds, and was required to comply with certain other covenants including certain financial ratios.
  All cash received by Keeler & Co. was applied against the outstanding loan balance.
  A subjective acceleration clause allowed ACF to call the note upon a material adverse change.

 

F-37
 

 

On November 26, 2019, Keeler & Co. entered into the seventh amendment to the loan and security agreement with ACF. This amendment memorialized the acquisition of Coastal Pride and made Coastal Pride a co-borrower to the facility. Additionally, the seventh amendment waived and reset the covenant default that occurred during 2019, extended the term of the facility to 5 years and is subject to early termination by the lender upon defined events of default. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride were in violation of its minimum EBITDA covenant as well as exceeding the covenant related to monies advanced to Bacolod by approximately $105,000. The default interest rate increase of 3% was implemented in April 2020.

 

On May 7, 2020, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into an eighth amendment to the loan and security agreement with ACF which acknowledged the execution of a Payroll Protection Program loan, provided a reservation of rights related to a default of the minimum EBITDA covenant.

 

The Company analyzed the line of credit modification under ASC 470-50-40-21 and determined that the modification did not trigger any additional accounting due to the revolving line of credit remaining unchanged.

 

As of December 31, 2020, the line of credit had an outstanding balance of approximately $1,805,000. As of March 31, 2021, the line of credit had an outstanding balance of $0.

 

On March 31, 2021, Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride entered into a loan and security agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement, Lighthouse made available to Keeler & Co. and Coastal Pride (together, the “Borrowers”) a $5,000,000 revolving line of credit for a term of thirty-six months, renewable annually for one-year periods thereafter. Amounts due under the line of credit are represented by a revolving credit note issued to Lighthouse by the Borrowers.

 

The advance rate of the revolving line of credit is 85% with respect to eligible accounts receivable and the lower of 60% of the Borrowers’ eligible inventory, or 80% of the net orderly liquidation value, subject to an inventory sublimit of $2,500,000. The inventory portion of the loan will never exceed 50% of the outstanding balance. Interest on the line of credit is the prime rate (with a floor of 3.25%), plus 3.75%. The Borrowers will pay Lighthouse a facility fee of $50,000 in three instalments of $16,667 in March, April and May 2021 and will pay an additional facility fee of $25,000 on each anniversary of March 31, 2021.

 

The line of credit is secured by a first priority security interest on all the assets of each Borrower. Pursuant to the terms of a guaranty agreement, the Company guaranteed the obligations of the Borrowers under the note and John Keeler, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, provided a personal guaranty of up to $1,000,000 to Lighthouse.

 

The Borrowers utilized $784,450 borrowed from Lighthouse to repay all the outstanding indebtedness owed to the ACF as of March 31, 2021. As a result, all obligations owed to ACF were satisfied and the loan agreement with ACF was terminated. The outstanding balance owed to Lighthouse as of June 30, 2021 amounted to $631,958.

 

First West Credit Union CEBA Loan

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company assumed a commercial term loan with First West Credit Union Canada Emergency Business Account (“CEBA”) in the principal amount of CAD$60,000 in connection with the acquisition of TOBC. The loan initially bears no interest and is due on December 31, 2025. The borrower may prepay all or part of the loan commencing November 1, 2022 and if, by December 31, 2022, the Company has paid 75% of the loan amount, the remaining 25% will be forgiven as per the loan agreement. If less than 75% of the loan amount is outstanding by December 31, 2022, the then outstanding balance will be converted to interest only monthly payments at 5.0%.

 

John Keeler Promissory Notes – Subordinated

 

The Company had unsecured promissory notes outstanding to its stockholder of approximately $1,299,000 of principal and interest expense of $39,100 and $174,000 as of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively. These notes are payable on demand, bear an annual interest rate of 6% and were subordinated to the ACF working capital line of credit until March 31, 2021. Since March 31, 2021, these notes are subordinated to the Lighthouse note. No principal payments were made by the Company during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Kenar Note

 

On March 26, 2019, the Company issued a four-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $1,000,000 (the “Kenar Note”) to a company controlled by a shareholder, Kenar Overseas Corp., a company registered in Panama (the “Lender”) the term of which was previously extended to March 31, 2020 after which time, on May 21, 2020, the Kenar Note was amended to (i) set the maturity date at March 31, 2021 (unless extended to September 30, 2021 at the Lender’s sole option), (ii) provide that the Company use one-third of any capital raise from the sale of its equity to reduce the outstanding principal under the Kenar Note, (iii) set the interest rate at 18% per annum, payable monthly commencing October 1, 2020, and (iv) to reduce the number of pledged shares by Mr. Keeler to 4,000,000. As consideration for Kenar’s agreement to amend the note, on May 27, 2020, the Company issued 1,021,266 shares of common stock to Kenar. As of the amendment date, the common stock had a value of $2,655,292.

 

F-38
 

 

The amendment to the Kenar Note was analyzed under ASC 470-50 and was determined that it will be accounted for as an extinguishment of the old debt and the new debt recorded at fair value with the new effective interest rate of 18%. Additionally, this treatment resulted in the cost of the modification paid in common stock with a value of $2,655,292 charged to other expense as of the date of the amendment.

 

On April 28, 2021, the Kenar Note was amended to extend the maturity date to May 31, 2021.

 

The principal amount of the Kenar Note as of June 30, 2021 was $872,500. Interest expense was approximately $77,800 during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

On July 6, 2021, the Company entered into a note payoff indemnity agreement with Kenar pursuant to which the Company paid Kenar $918,539 of principal and accrued interest in full satisfaction of the amounts due to Kenar under a Second Loan Amendment, dated April 26, 2021, between the Company and Kenar, and the Kenar Note was extinguished and the shares pledged by Mr. Keeler were released.

 

Lobo Note

 

On April 2, 2019, the Company issued a four-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 (the “Lobo Note”) to Lobo Holdings, LLLP, a stockholder in the Company (“Lobo”). The Lobo Note bears interest at the rate of 18% per annum. The Lobo Note may be prepaid in whole or in part without penalty. John Keeler, the Company’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, pledged 1,000,000 shares of common stock of the Company to secure the Company’s obligations under the Lobo Note. The Lobo Note matured on August 2, 2019 and was extended through December 2, 2019 on the same terms and conditions. On November 15, 2019, the Company paid off the Lobo Note with the issuance to Lobo of an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which bears interest at the rate of 15% and matured on March 31, 2020. On April 1, 2020, the Company paid off the November 15, 2019 note with the issuance of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrued interest at the rate of 10% and matured on October 1, 2020. On October 1, 2020, the Company paid off the April 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a three-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which accrued interest at the rate of 10% and matured on December 31, 2020. On January 1, 2021, the Company paid off the October 1, 2020 note with the issuance of a six-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000, which bears interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on June 30, 2021. Interest expense was approximately $2,400 during the six months ended June 30, 2021. On July 1, 2021, the Company paid off the January 1, 2021 note with the issuance of a three-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrues interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on September 30, 2021.

 

Walter Lubkin Jr. Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a five-year unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $500,000 to Walter Lubkin Jr. as part of the purchase price for the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum and is payable quarterly in an amount equal to the lesser of (i) $25,000 or (ii) 25% of the EBITDA of Coastal Pride, as determined on the first day of each quarter. To date, no payments have been made under the note since the EBITDA generated by Coastal Pride has not required such payment. This note is subordinate to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during the six months ended June 30, 2021. Interest expense was approximately $9,900 during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Walter Lubkin III Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $87,842 to Walter Lubkin III as part the purchase price for the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during the six months ended June 30, 2021. Interest expense was approximately $1,700 during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

F-39
 

 

Tracy Greco Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $71,372 to Tracy Greco as part of the purchase price for the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during the six months ended June 30, 2021. Interest expense was approximately $1,400 during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

John Lubkin Convertible Note – Subordinated

 

On November 26, 2019, the Company issued a thirty-nine-month unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $50,786 to John Lubkin as part the Coastal Pride acquisition. The note bears interest at the rate of 4% per annum. The note is payable in equal quarterly payments over six quarters beginning August 26, 2021. At the election of the holder, at any time after the first anniversary of the issuance of the note, the then outstanding principal and accrued interest may be converted into the Company’s common stock at a rate of $2.00 per share. This note is subordinated to the working capital line of credit. Principal payments are permitted so long as the borrower is not in default of its working capital line of credit. No principal payments were made by the Company during the six months ended June 30, 2021. Interest expense was approximately $1,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Steven Atkinson and Janet Atkinson Promissory Notes – Subordinated

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company issued a promissory note in the principal amount of CAD$102,000 (USD$82,824) to Janet Atkinson as part of the TOBC acquisition. The note bears no interest and is due on November 30, 2021.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company issued a promissory note in the principal amount of CAD$98,000 (USD$79,576) to Steven Atkinson as part of the TOBC acquisition. The note bears no interest and is due on November 30, 2021.

 

Payroll Protection Program Loan

 

On March 2, 2021, the Company received proceeds of $371,944 and issued an unsecured promissory note to US Century in the principal amount of $371,944 in connection with a PPP Loan. The note accrues interest at 1.0% per annum, matures five years from the date of issuance and is fully guaranteed by the SBA and may be forgiven provided certain criteria are met. The Company may apply for forgiveness after August 17, 2021 and may be required to make monthly payments of approximately $8,500 beginning June 2, 2022. As of June 30, 2021, the Company recorded interest expense of approximately $1,200.

 

Note 5. Business Combination

 

Acquisition of Taste of BC Aquafarms

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company consummated the acquisition of TOBC and TOBC became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination under the provisions of ASC 805. The aggregate purchase price of CAD$5,000,000 was paid as follows: (i) an aggregate of CAD$1,000,000 in cash to the Sellers; (ii) promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of CAD$200,000 to the Sellers; (iii) 987,741 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$2,800,000 of shares based on USD$2.30 per share) with each Seller receiving their pro rata portion based on their ownership; and an aggregate of 344,957 shares of the Company’s common stock (representing CAD$1,000,000 additional shares calculated at USD$2.30 per share) were issued on August 3, 2021 and put in escrow until June 24, 2023. If, within 24 months of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of at least CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive all of the escrowed shares. If, as of the 24-month anniversary of the closing, TOBC has cumulative revenue of less than CAD$1,300,000, the Sellers will receive a prorated number of the escrowed shares based on the actual cumulative revenue of TOBC as of such date.

 

The transaction costs incurred in connection with the acquisition of TOBC amounted to $31,000.

 

F-40
 

 

Fair Value of Consideration Transferred and Recording of Assets Acquired

 

The following table summarizes the acquisition date fair value of the consideration paid, identifiable assets acquired, and liabilities assumed. The business combination accounting is not yet complete and the amounts assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed are provisional. Therefore, this may result in future adjustments to the provisional amounts as information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date.

 

Consideration Paid:      
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 814,000  
Common stock, 987,741 shares of BSFC common stock     2,271,804  
Promissory notes to Sellers     162,400  
Contingent consideration - Common stock, 344,957 shares of BSFC common stock in escrow     793,400  
Fair value of total consideration   $ 4,041,604  
         
Purchase Price Allocation:        
Tangible assets acquired   $ 2,157,506  
Trademarks     406,150  
Customer relationships     1,454,017  
Non-compete agreements     97,476  
Goodwill     479,277  
Liabilities assumed     (552,822 )
Fair market value of net assets acquired   $ 4,041,604  

 

In determining the fair value of the common stock issued, the Company considered the value of the stock as estimated by the Company at the time of closing. The value of USD$2.30 per share of common stock, as provided in the Purchase Agreement, was calculated based on the volume weighted average price of a share of the Company’s common stock on the OTC Markets for the period commencing on April 28, 2020, the date the Company’s common stock started trading on the OTC Markets, through the closing of the acquisition on June 24, 2021.

  

Liabilities assumed included three mortgage loans of approximately CAD$490,000 which were paid off by the Company on July 9, 2021. The Company has one commercial loan outstanding for CAD$60,000 which is due on December 31, 2025.

 

Unaudited Pro Forma Information

 

The following unaudited pro forma information assumes the business acquisition occurred on January 1, 2020. For all of the business acquisitions, depreciation and amortization have been included in the calculation of the below pro forma information based upon the actual acquisition costs.

 

    Six Months Ended
June 30, 2021
   

Six Months Ended
June 30, 2020

 
Revenue   $ 4,936,796     $ 7,535,578  
Net loss attributable to common shareholders   $ (767,791 )   $ (4,368,367 )
Basic and diluted loss per share   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.25 )

 

The information included in the pro forma amounts is derived from historical information obtained from the Sellers of the business.

 

F-41
 

 

Note 6. Common Stock

 

On July 1, 2020, the Company entered into an investment banking engagement agreement, as amended on October 30, 2020, with Newbridge Securities Corporation. In consideration for advisory services, the Company agreed to issue Newbridge a total of 60,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $138,000 which is amortized to expense over the term of the agreement. The Company recognized stock compensation expense of $69,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 in connection with these shares.

 

On February 8, 2021, the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $25,250 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock with a fair value of $24,697 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $11,800 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 11,975 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend with an aggregate fair value of $28,260 for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

 

On April 15, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 16,460 shares of common stock to Walter Lubkin Jr., Walter Lubkin III, Tracy Greco and John Lubkin (collectively, the “Coastal Sellers”) in lieu of $39,504 of outstanding interest under promissory notes issued by the Company to the Coastal Sellers in connection with the Coastal Pride acquisition.

 

On April 19, 2021, the Company issued 12,500 shares of common stock with a fair value of $25,000 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On April 29, 2021, the Company issued 105,757 shares of common stock to Kenar Overseas Corp. in lieu of $227,378 of outstanding interest under the Kenar Note.

 

On April 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $28,500 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On May 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $31,500 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 17, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 475,000 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to four accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $950,000.

 

On June 23, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate 212,750 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to twenty-seven accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $425,000.

 

On June 24, 2021, the Company issued 987,741 shares to the sellers of TOBC as partial consideration for the sale of TOBC to the Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $36,250 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock with a fair value of $75,871 to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 706,500 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders upon conversion of an aggregate 1,413 shares of Series A preferred stock.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 598,750 shares of common stock at $2.00 per share to twenty-six accredited investors in a private offering for gross proceeds of $1,198,000.

 

F-42
 

 

Note 7. Options

 

The following table represents option activity for the six months ended June 30, 2021:

 

    Number of Options     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
    Weighted Average Remaining Contractual
Life in
Years
    Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
 
Outstanding – December 31, 2020     3,810,000     $ 2.00       7.87        
Exercisable – December 31, 2020     3,280,000     $ 2.00       7.87     $ 721,600  
Granted     676,417     $ -                  
Forfeited     (63,750 )   $ 2.00                  
Vested     3,431,250                          
Outstanding – June 30, 2021     4,422,667     $ 2.00       7.33          
Exercisable – June 30, 2021     3,431,250     $ 2.00       7.33     $ 18,014,065  

 

The Company recognized $96,489 of compensation expense for vested stock options issued to contractors and employees during 2019 for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

 

Note 8. Warrants

 

    Number of Warrants     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
    Weighted Average Remaining Contractual
Life in
Years
    Aggregate Intrinsic
Value
 
Outstanding – December 31, 2020     353,250     $ 2.40       0.85                   
Exercisable – December 31, 2020     353,250     $ 2.40       0.85     $ -  
Granted     1,286,500     $ -                  
Forfeited or Expired     -     $ -                  
Outstanding – June 30, 2021     1,639,750     $ 2.09       2.39          
Exercisable – June 30, 2021     1,639,750     $ 2.09       2.39     $ 8,467,388  

 

As of June 30, 2021, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,286,500 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to fifty-seven accredited investors that expire in June 2024.

 

Note 9. Commitment and Contingencies

 

Office lease

 

The Company leased its Miami office and warehouse facility from JK Real Estate, a related party through common family beneficial ownership. The lease which had a 20-year term, expiring in July 2021, was terminated on December 31, 2020, upon the sale of the facility. In connection with the sale, the Company retained approximately 4,756 square feet of such space, rent-free for the next 12 months.

 

The Company leases approximately 1,600 square feet in Beaufort, South Carolina for the offices of Coastal Pride. This office space consists of two leases with related parties that expire in 2024.

 

Rental and equipment lease expenses amounted to approximately $28,400 and $125,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

 

F-43
 

 

Legal

 

The Company has reached a settlement agreement with a former employee. Although the agreement is not finalized, the Company has reserved for the entire amount of the settlement.

 

Note 10. COVID-19 Pandemic

 

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) had become a pandemic, and on March 13, 2020, the U.S. President declared a National Emergency concerning the disease. Additionally, in March 2020, state governments in the Company’s geographic operating area began instituting preventative shut down measures in order to combat the novel coronavirus pandemic. The coronavirus and actions taken to mitigate the spread of it have had and are expected to continue to have an adverse impact on the economies and financial markets of the geographical areas in which the Company operates. On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was enacted to amongst other provisions, provide emergency assistance for individuals, families and businesses affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic for 2020 and into 2021. The Company’s business not being deemed essential resulted in decreased financial performance that may not be indicative of future financial results. Government-mandated closures of businesses and shipping delays have affected our sales and inventory purchases. The Company continues to face uncertainty and increased risks concerning its employees, customers, supply chain and government regulation. Although the COVID-19 vaccine is currently available to the population in the U.S., cases of the COVID-19 virus continue to raise due to variants of the virus and the long-term effects of this pandemic are yet to be seen. The Company’s sales and supply may continue to be adversely affected due to COVID-19 and plans continue to be developed to ensure a prompt response is given to address the effects of the pandemic.

 

Note 11. Subsequent Events

 

On July 1, 2021, the Company issued to Lobo an unsecured promissory note in the principal amount of $100,000 which accrues interest at the rate of 10% per annum and matures on September 30, 2021.

 

On July 6, 2021, the Company entered into a note payoff indemnity agreement with Kenar pursuant to which the Company paid Kenar $918,539 of principal and accrued interest in full satisfaction of the amounts due to Kenar under a Second Loan Amendment, dated April 26, 2021, between the Company and Kenar. Consequently, the Kenar Note was extinguished, and the shares pledged by Mr. Keeler were released.

 

On July 8, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 83,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 83,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to sixteen accredited investors for gross proceeds of $167,500.

  

On July 14, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 129,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 129,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to four accredited investors for gross proceeds of $259,500.

 

On August 3, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $30,000 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement. 

  

F-44
 

 

PART II

 

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

 

The following table sets forth the costs and expenses payable by us in connection with the sale of common stock being registered. All amounts are estimates except for the SEC filing fee, the FINRA filing fee, and the Nasdaq Capital Market listing fee.

 

SEC filing fee   $ 536.99  
FINRA filing fee   $

1,238.30

 
Nasdaq Capital Market listing fee   $

75,000

 
Legal fees and expenses   $ 170,000  
Accounting fees and expenses   $ 5,000.00  
Miscellaneous fees and expenses   $ 10,000  
Total   $

261,755.29

 

 

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers

 

We currently maintain and intend to maintain for the foreseeable future director and officer liability insurance on behalf of our directors and officers.

 

We are incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware. Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law provides that a Delaware corporation may indemnify any persons who were, are, or are threatened to be made, parties to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of such corporation), by reason of the fact that such person is or was an officer, director, employee or agent of such corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such corporation as an officer, director, employee or agent of another corporation or enterprise. The indemnity may include expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, provided that such person acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the corporation’s best interests and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was illegal. A Delaware corporation may indemnify any persons who were, are, or are threatened to be made, a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or enterprise. The indemnity may include expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit provided such person acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the corporation’s best interests except that no indemnification is permitted without judicial approval if the officer or director is adjudged to be liable to the corporation. Where an officer or director is successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any action referred to above, the corporation must indemnify him or her against the expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred.

 

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws provide for the indemnification of its directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted under the Delaware General Corporation 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 duties as a director, except for liability for any:

 

  transaction from which the director derives an improper personal benefit;
  act or omission not in good faith or that involves intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;
  unlawful payment of dividends; or
  breach of a director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders.

 

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation includes such a provision. Expenses incurred by any officer or director in defending any such action, suit or proceeding in advance of its final disposition shall be paid by us upon delivery to us of an undertaking, by or on behalf of such director or officer, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined that such director or officer is not entitled to be indemnified by us.

 

II-1
 

 

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, we intend to enter into indemnity agreements with each of our directors and executive officers.

 

At present, there is no pending litigation or proceeding involving any of our directors or executive officers as to which indemnification is required or permitted, and we are not aware of any threatened litigation or proceeding that may result in a claim for indemnification.

 

We have an insurance policy in place that covers our officers and directors with respect to certain liabilities, including liabilities arising under the Securities Act, or otherwise.

 

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

During the past three years, we sold the following securities which were not registered under the Securities Act.

 

Securities Issued by the Company in Connection with the Merger

 

On November 8, 2018, pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, all of the shares of common stock of Keeler & Co were exchanged for 15,000,000 restricted shares of common stock.

 

On November 8, 2018, Christopher Constable was issued a ten-year option to purchase 3,120,000 shares of common stock, which became exercisable one year from the date of grant.

 

On November 8, 2018, upon the closing of the Merger, 80,000 shares of common stock were issued to The Crone Law Group, P.C. for legal services, 129,500 shares of common stock were issued to Sandstone Group Corp. and 55,500 shares were issued to Newbridge Securities Corporation for financial advisory services provided in connection with the Merger.

 

These transactions were exempt from registration under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act as not involving any public offering. None of the securities were sold through an underwriter and, accordingly, there were no underwriting discounts or commissions involved.

 

Sales of Units in the Company Settlement

 

Concurrently with the closing of the Merger on November 8, 2018, we issued an aggregate of 688 Units to the Settlement Parties in connection with the Company Settlement. The sale of these securities was exempt from registrations pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act as not involving any public offering.

 

Recent Sales

 

On February 1, 2019, we issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an investor in a private offering for $10,000, which were subsequently cancelled.

 

On March 29, 2019, we issued an aggregate of 8,164 shares of common stock as a dividend to the holders of our Series A Stock.

 

On March 31, 2019, we issued an aggregate of 14,130 shares of common stock as a dividend to the holders of our Series A Stock.

 

On April 2, 2019, we issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $10,000.

 

II-2
 

 

On April 12, 2019, we issued 1,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $2,000.

 

On April 23, 2019, we issued 2,500 shares of common stock to MEC Consulting Inc., for legal services provided to the Company.

 

On May 2, 2019, we issued 500 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $1,000.

 

On May 6, 2019, we issued 500 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $1,000.

 

On May 7, 2019, we issued 3,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $6,000.

 

On May 9, 2019, we issued 1,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $2,000.

 

On May 20, 2019, we issued an aggregate of 5,500 shares of common stock to eleven employees of the Company as bonus compensation.

 

On May 20, 2019, we issued an aggregate of 20,000 shares of common stock to Newbridge Securities Corporation and two of its employees for investment banking services provided to the Company.

 

On September 24, 2019, an aggregate of 14,130 shares of common stock were issued to the Company’s Series A convertible preferred stockholders as a quarterly dividend.

 

On November 26, 2019, in connection with the Coastal Pride acquisition, we issued 500,000 shares of common stock to Walter Lubkin, Jr. and an aggregate of 795,000 shares of common stock to the sellers of Coastal Pride pro rata to their ownership of Coastal Pride immediately prior to the Merger.

 

On January 23, 2020, we issued (i) 127,700 shares of common stock for professional fees provided in connection with the Coastal Pride Merger; and (ii) 30,321 shares of common stock to MEC Consulting, Inc. for legal fees.

 

On March 31, 2020, an aggregate of 14,130 shares of common stock were issued to the Company’s Series A convertible preferred stockholders as quarterly dividends for the quarter ending September 30, 2019.

 

On May 27, 2020, as consideration for Kenar agreement to amend the Kenar Note, the Company issued 1,021,266 shares of common stock to Kenar.

 

On May 27, 2020, an aggregate of 28,260 shares of common stock were issued to Series A Preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend for the quarters ending September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2019.

 

On May 27, 2020, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an accredited investor in a private offering for $10,000.

 

On May 27, 2020, the Company issued 18,000 shares of common stock to Luis Matos Arreaza for professional services provided to the Company.

 

On September 22, 2020, the Company issued an aggregate of 60,000 shares to Newbridge Securities Corporation and its affiliates as compensation under an investment banking and corporate advisory agreement.

 

On September 29, 2020, the Company issued an aggregate of 39,560 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend for the quarters ended March 31, 2020, June 30, 2020 and September 30, 2020.

 

II-3
 

 

On December 24, 2020, we issued 55,814 shares of common stock to MEC Consulting, Inc. for legal services provided to the Company.

 

On December 30, 2020, we issued 796,650 shares of common stock to an unaffiliated party and designee of John Keeler pursuant to a debt repayment agreement with Mr. Keeler as full and complete payment of the aggregate principal amount of $1,593,300 due under four promissory notes held by Mr. Keeler.

 

On February 8, 2021, the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On March 31, 2021, the Company issued 11,975 shares of common stock to Series A preferred stockholders as a common stock dividend for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

 

On April 12, 2021, we granted each director a four-year option to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share which vests in twelve equal monthly installments over the first year of the date of grant.

 

On April 15, 2021, the Company issued an aggregate of 16,460 shares of common stock to Walter Lubkin Jr., Walter Lubkin III, Tracy Greco and John Lubkin (collectively, the “Coastal Sellers”) in lieu of $39,504 of outstanding interest under promissory notes issued by the Company to the Coastal Sellers in connection with the Coastal Pride acquisition.

 

On April 19, 2021, the Company issued 12,500 shares of common stock with a fair value of $25,000 to the designee of a law firm for services provided.

 

On April 29, 2021, the Company issued 105,757 shares of common stock to Kenar Overseas Corp. in lieu of $227,378 of outstanding interest under the Kenar Note.

 

On April 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $28,500 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On May 31, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 17, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 475,000 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 475,000 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to four accredited investors for gross proceeds of $950,000.

 

On June 23, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 212,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 212,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to twenty-seven accredited investors for gross proceeds of $425,000.

 

On June 24, 2021, we issued an aggregate of 987,741 shares of common stock to the sellers of TOBC as partial consideration for the sale of TOBC to the Company.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On June 30, 2021, the Company issued 10,465 shares of common stock to the designee of a law firm for services provided to the Company.

 

II-4
 

 

On June 30, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 598,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 598,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to twenty-six accredited investors for gross proceeds of $1,197,500.

 

On June 30, 2021, we issued an aggregate of 706,500 shares of common stock to Series A Stockholders upon the conversion of an aggregate of 1,413 shares of Series A Stock.

 

On July 8, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 83,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 83,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to sixteen accredited investors for gross proceeds of $167,500.

 

On July 14, 2021, we sold pursuant to subscription agreements an aggregate of 129,750 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.00 per share and issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 129,750 shares at an exercise price of $2.00 per share in a private offering to four accredited investors for gross proceeds of $259,500.

 

On August 3, 2021, the Company issued 5,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $30,000 to an investor relations firm for services provided to the Company under an investor relations consulting agreement.

 

On August 3, 2021, the Company issued a stock option to purchase an aggregate of 7,012 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share to Silvia Alana, its chief financial officer.

 

These transactions were exempt from registration under Section 4(a)(2) and/or Rule 506(b) of Regulation D as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission under of the Securities Act, as transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering. None of the securities were sold through an underwriter and, accordingly, there were no underwriting discounts or commissions involved.

 

Item 16. Exhibits

 

1.1*

  Form of Underwriting Agreement
     
2.1   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 8, 2018, by and among the Company, Blue Star, Acquisition Sub and John Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 14, 2018)
     
2.2   Articles of Merger between Blue Star and Acquisition Sub (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 14, 2018)
     
3.1   Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company’s Form 10/A filed with the SEC on May 17, 2018)
     
3.2   Amended and Restated By-Laws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to the Company’s Form 10/A filed with the SEC on May 17, 2018)
     
3.3   Certificate of Amendment, dated November 5, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 9, 2018)
     
3.4   Certificate of Designation of 8% Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 9, 2018)
     
4.1   Form of common stock Purchase Warrant ((incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 23, 2021)
     
5.1***   Opinion of The Crone Law Group, P.C.
     
10.1   Form of Subscription Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.2   Form of Amendment to Subscription Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)

 

II-5
 

 

10.3   Form of Warrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.4   Form of Registration Rights Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.5   Form of Settlement Agreement and Mutual General Release (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.6   Forms of Lockup Agreement for Pre-Merger Stockholders and Officers and Directors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.7   Form of Redemption Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.8   2018 Incentive Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.9   Form of Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 8, 2018)
     
10.10   Loan and Security Agreement filed with the SEC on August 31, 2016 between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 8, 2018)
     
10.11   First Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement and Reservation of Rights, dated November 18, 2016, between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.12   Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated June 19, 2017, between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.13   Third Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated October 16, 2017, between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.14   Fourth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated September 19, 2018, between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.15   Fifth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated November 8, 2018, between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.16   $14,000,000 Revolving Credit Note, dated August 31, 2016 between the Company and ACF (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.17   Patent Security Agreement, dated August 31, 2016, between Blue Star and ACF FINCO LP (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)

 

II-6
 

 

10.18   Lease Agreement, dated May 1, 2001, between Keeler & Co. and John Keeler Real Estate Holdings, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.19   Master Software Development Agreement, dated February 6, 2017 between the Company and Claritus Management Pvt. Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.20   $500,000 Demand Note, dated January 4, 2006 from Keeler & Co. in favor of John Keeler and Maria Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.21   $200,000 Demand Note, dated March 31, 2006 from Keeler & Co. in favor of John Keeler and Maria Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.22   $100,000 Demand Note, dated November 21, 2007, from Keeler & Co. in favor of John Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.23   $516,833.83 Demand Note, dated July 31, 2013 from Keeler & Co. in favor of John Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 8, 2018)
     
10.24   Form of Subscription Agreement for February 1, 2019 offering (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 1, 2019)
     
10.25   $1,000,000 Promissory Note, dated March 26, 2019, issued to Kenar Overseas Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on April 1, 2019)
     
10.26   $100,000 Promissory Note, dated January 1, 2021, issued to Lobo Holdings, LLLP (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021)
     
10.27   Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization, dated as of November 26, 2019, by and among John Keeler & Co., Inc., Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC, Coastal Pride Company, Inc., The Walter F. Lubkin, Jr. Irrevocable Trust dated 1/8/03, Walter F. Lubkin III, Tracy Lubkin Greco and John C. Lubkin (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 2, 2019)
     
10.28   4% Promissory Note in the principal amount of $500,000, dated November 26, 2019, issued by John Keeler & Co., Inc. to Walter Lubkin, Jr. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 2, 2019)
     
10.29   Form of 4% Convertible Promissory Note, dated November 26, 2019, issued by John Keeler & Co., Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 2, 2019)
     
10.30   Form of Leak-Out Agreement, dated November 26, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 2, 2019)
     
10.31   Joinder and Seventh Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated November 26, 2019, by and among ACF Finco I LP, John Keeler & Co., Inc. and Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.33 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 2, 2019)

 

II-7
 

 

10.32   Form of Lock-Up and Resale Restriction Agreement, dated December 26, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.34 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on May 29, 2020)
     
10.33   Loan Amendment, dated May 21, 2020 to Promissory Note issued to Kenar Overseas Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on May 29, 2020)
     
10.34   Eight Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated May 7, 2020, between the Company and ACF Separation and Mutual Release Agreement, dated February 25, 2020, between the Company and Christopher Constable(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.37 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on May 29, 2020)
     
10.35   Separation and Mutual Release Agreement, dated February 25, 2020, between the Company and Christopher Constable (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on May 29, 2020)
     
10.36   Mutual Lease Termination Agreement, dated December 31, 2020, between Keeler & Co. and John Keeler Real Estate Holdings, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.36 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021)
     
10.37   Debt Repayment Agreement, dated December 30, 2020, between the Company and John Keeler (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 9, 2021)
     
10.38   Investment Banking Agreement, dated July 1, 2020, between the Company and Newbridge Securities Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.38 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021)
     
10.39   Amendment No. 1 to Investment Banking Agreement, dated October 30, 2020, between the Company and Newbridge Securities Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.39 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 15, 2021)
     
10.40   Loan and Security Agreement dated March 31, 2021, by and among John Keeler & Co. Inc. and Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC and Lighthouse Financial Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.40 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 6, 2021)
     
10.41   Revolving Credit Note dated March 31, 2021 in the amount of up to $5,000,000 issued by John Keeler & Co. Inc. and Coastal Pride Seafood, LLC to Lighthouse Financial Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.41 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 6, 2021)
     
10.42   Guarantee Agreement dated March 31, 2021 executed by Blue Star Foods Corp. in favor of Lighthouse Financial Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.42 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 6, 2021)
     
10.43   Form of Director Services Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 31, 2021)
     
10.44   Stock Purchase Agreement, dated April 27, 2021, by and among the Company, Taste of BC Aquafarms, Inc, Steven Atkinson and Janet Atkinson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.44 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 29, 2021)
     
10.45   Second Loan Amendment, dated April 28, 2021, between the Company and Kenar Overseas Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.45 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 29, 2021)

 

II-8
 

 

10.46   Form of Subscription Agreement for common stock offering (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 23, 2021)
     
10.47   Form of common stock Purchase Warrant at $2.00 per share (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 23, 2021)
     
10.48   Form of Promissory Note with Taste of BC Aquafarms, Inc. Sellers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 30, 2021)
     
10.49   First Amendment to Stock Purchase Agreement, dated June 24, 2021, by and among, the Company, Taste of BC Aquafarms, Inc, Steven Atkinson and Janet Atkinson (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 30, 2021)
     
10.50   Form of Confidentiality, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement, dated June 24, 2021(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 30, 2021)
     
10.51   $100,000 Promissory Note, dated July 1, 2021, issued to Lobo Holdings, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 7, 2021)
     
10.52   Note Payoff Indemnity Agreement, dated July 6, 2021 between the Company and Kenar Overseas Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 7, 2021)
     
10.53   Employment At Will Agreement, dated August 3, 2020, between the Company and Silvia Alana (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.53 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 2, 2021)
     
10.54   Investment Banking Engagement Agreement, dated July 8, 2021, between the Company and Newbridge Securities Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.54 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 2, 2021)
     
10.55   Consulting Agreement, dated July 8, 2021, between the Company and MEC Consulting, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.55 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 2, 2021)
     

10.56*

  Form of Warrant issuable to the Underwriters
     
21   List of Subsidiaries (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 21 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on August 2, 2021)
     
23.1*   Consent of MaloneBailey, LLP
     
23.2   Consent of The Crone Law Group, P.C. (included in Exhibit 5.1)
     
24.1   Power of Attorney (included in the signature page of this Registration Statement)

 

101.ins   Instance Document
101.sch   XBRL Taxonomy Schema Document
101.cal   XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
101.def   XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
101.lab   XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document
101.pre   XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document

 

* filed herewith 

** to be filed by amendment

*** previously filed

 

II-9
 

 

Item 17. Undertakings

 

The Company hereby undertakes:

 

(a) 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 SEC 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 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.

 

(b) The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes that:

 

(1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b) (1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

 

(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

II-10
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Miami, State of Florida on October 25, 2021.

 

  BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.
     
  By: /s/ John Keeler
   

John Keeler

Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman (Principal Executive Officer)

 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitute and appoint John Keeler and Silvia Alana, and each one of them, as his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place, and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement, and to sign any registration statement for the same offering covered by this registration statement that is to be effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and all post-effective amendments thereto, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and 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 connection therewith, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them, or his or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

October 25, 2021 By: /s/ John Keeler
   

John Keeler

Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman and director

    (Principal Executive Officer)
     
October 25, 2021 By: /s/ Silvia Alana
   

Silvia Alana

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

     
October 25, 2021 By: /s/ Jeffrey J. Guzy
   

Jeffrey J. Guzy

Director

     
October 25, 2021 By: /s/ Nubar Herian
   

Nubar Herian

Director

 

October 25, 2021 By: /s/ Timothy McLellan
    Timothy McLellan
    Director
     
October 25, 2021 By: /s/ Trond Ringstad
    Trond Ringstad
    Director

 

II-11

 

Exhibit 1.1

 

Blue Star Foods Corp

 

SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

 


UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT

 

[                               ]

Newbridge Securities Corporation
1200 North Federal Highway
Suite 400
Boca Raton, FL 33432

As Representative of the
Several underwriters, if any, named in Schedule I hereto

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

The undersigned, Blue Star Foods Corp, a company incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware (collectively with its subsidiaries and affiliates, including, without limitation, all entities disclosed or described in the Registration Statement as being subsidiaries or affiliates of Blue Star Foods Corp, the “Company”), hereby confirms its agreement (this “Agreement”) with the several underwriters (such underwriters, including the Representative (as defined below), the “Underwriters” and each an “Underwriter”) named in Schedule I hereto for which Newbridge Securities Corporation, is acting as representative to the several Underwriters (in such capacity, the “Representative.”

 

It is understood that the several Underwriters are to make a public offering of the Public Securities (the “Offering”) as soon as the Representative deems it advisable to do so. The Public Securities are to be initially offered to the public at the public offering price set forth in the Prospectus. The Representative may from time to time after the Offering change the public offering price of the Public Securities and other selling terms.

 

It is further understood that you will act as the Representative for the Underwriters in the offering and sale of the Closing Shares and, if any, the Option Shares in accordance with this Agreement.

 

 
 

 

Article I.
DEFINITIONS

 

1.1 Definitions. In addition to the terms defined elsewhere in this Agreement, for all purposes of this Agreement, the following terms have the meanings set forth in this Section 1.1:

 

Action” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(k).

 

Affiliate” means with respect to any Person, any other Person that, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by or is under common control with such Person as such terms are used in and construed under Rule 405 under the Securities Act.

 

Board of Directors” means the board of directors of the Company.

 

Business Day” means any day except any Saturday, any Sunday, any day which is a federal legal holiday in the United States or any day on which the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is closed.

 

Closing” means the closing of the purchase and sale of the Closing Shares pursuant to Section 2.1.

 

Closing Date” means the hour and the date on the Trading Day on which all conditions precedent to (i) the Underwriters’ obligations to pay the Closing Purchase Price and (ii) the Company’s obligations to deliver the Closing Shares, in each case, have been satisfied or waived, but in no event later than 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the second (2nd) Trading Day (or fourth (4) Trading Day, if pricing occurs after 4:30 p.m. New York City time) following the Execution Date or at such earlier time as shall be agreed upon by the Representative and the Company.

 

Closing Purchase Price” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.1(b), which aggregate purchase price shall be net of underwriting discounts and commissions.

 

Closing Shares” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.1(a).

 

Commission” means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Common Stock” means the common stock of the Company, par value $0.0001 per share, and any other class of securities into which such securities may hereafter be reclassified or changed.

 

Common Stock Equivalents” means any securities of the Company or the Subsidiaries which would entitle the holder thereof to acquire at any time Common Stock, including, without limitation, any debt, preferred stock, right, option, warrant or other instrument that is at any time convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for, or otherwise entitles the holder thereof to receive, Common Stock.

 

Company Auditor” means MaloneBailey, LLP, with offices located in Houston, Texas. _

 

Company Counsel” means, The Crone Law Group, P.C., 500 Fifth Avenue, Suite 938, New York, New York 10010.

 

Disclosure Schedules” means the Disclosure Schedules of the Company delivered concurrently herewith.

 

2

 

 

DW” means Dickinson Wright PLLC, 350 East Las Olas Blvd., Suite 1750, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301, counsel to the Underwriters.

 

Effective Date” means the date and time as of which the Registration Statement became effective, or is deemed to have become effective by the Commission, in accordance with the rules and regulations under the Securities Act.

 

Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Execution Date” shall mean the date on which the parties hereto execute and enter into this Agreement.

 

Exempt Issuance” means the issuance of (a) shares of Common Stock, restricted stock, restricted stock units or options to employees, officers or directors of the Company pursuant to any stock or option plan duly adopted for such purpose, by a majority of the non-employee members of the Board of Directors or a majority of the members of a committee of non-employee directors established for such purpose for services rendered to the Company, (b) securities upon the exercise or exchange of or conversion of any Shares issued hereunder and/or other securities exercisable or exchangeable for or convertible into shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding on the date of this Agreement, provided that such securities have not been amended since the date of this Agreement to increase the number of such securities or to decrease the exercise price, exchange price or conversion price of such securities (other than in connection with automatic price resets, stock splits, adjustments or combinations as set forth in such securities) or to extend the term of such securities; and (c) securities issued pursuant to acquisitions or strategic transactions approved by a majority of the disinterested directors of the Company, provided that such securities are issued as “restricted securities” (as defined in Rule 144) and carry no registration rights that require or permit the filing of any registration statement in connection therewith during the prohibition period in Section 4.21(a) herein, and provided that any such issuance shall only be to a Person (or to the equityholders of a Person) which is, itself or through its subsidiaries, an operating company or an owner of an asset in a business which shall provide to the Company additional benefits in addition to the investment of funds, but shall not include a transaction in which the Company is issuing securities primarily for the purpose of raising capital or to an entity whose primary business is investing in securities.

 

FCPA” means the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended.

 

FINRA” means the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

 

GAAP” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(i).

 

General Disclosure Package” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(f).

 

Indebtedness” means (a) any liabilities for borrowed money or amounts owed in excess of $100,000 (other than trade accounts payable incurred in the ordinary course of business), (b) all guaranties, endorsements and other contingent obligations in respect of indebtedness of others, whether or not the same are or should be reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet (or the notes thereto), except guaranties by endorsement of negotiable instruments for deposit or collection or similar transactions in the ordinary course of business; and (c) the present value of any lease payments in excess of $100,000 due under leases required to be capitalized in accordance with GAAP.

 

3

 

 

Intellectual Property Rights” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(q).

 

Liens” means a lien, charge, pledge, security interest, encumbrance, right of first refusal, preemptive right or other restriction.

 

Lock-Up Agreements” means the lock-up agreements that are delivered on the Execution Date by each of the Company’s officers and directors and the other Company stockholders set forth on Schedule II hereto, in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto.

 

Material Adverse Effect” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(b).

 

Offering” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Option Closing Date” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.2(c).

 

Option Closing Purchase Price” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.2(b), which aggregate purchase price shall be net of the underwriting discounts and commissions.

 

Option Notice” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.2(c).

 

Option Shares” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.2(a).

 

Over-Allotment Option” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.2(a).

 

Person” means an individual or corporation, partnership, trust, incorporated or unincorporated association, joint venture, limited liability company, joint stock company, government (or an agency or subdivision thereof) or other entity of any kind.

 

Preliminary Prospectus” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(f).

 

Proceeding” means an action, claim, suit, investigation or proceeding (including, without limitation, an informal investigation or partial proceeding, such as a deposition), whether commenced or threatened.

 

Prospectus” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(f).

 

Public Securities” means, collectively, the Closing Shares and, if any, the Option Shares.

 

Registration Statement” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(f).

 

4

 

 

Required Approvals” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(e).

 

Right of First Refusal” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 4.20.

 

Right of First Refusal Period” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 4.20.

 

Rule 144” means Rule 144 promulgated by the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act, as such Rule may be amended or interpreted from time to time, or any similar rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission having substantially the same purpose and effect as such Rule.

 

Rule 424” means Rule 424 promulgated by the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act, as such Rule may be amended or interpreted from time to time, or any similar rule or regulation hereafter adopted by the Commission having substantially the same purpose and effect as such Rule.

 

SEC Reports” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 3.1(i).

 

Securities” means the Closing Shares, the Option Shares and the Underwriter’s Securities.

 

Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Subject Transaction” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 4.20.

 

Subsidiary” means any subsidiary of the Company and shall, where applicable, also include any direct or indirect subsidiary of the Company formed or acquired after the Execution Date.

 

Trading Day” means a day on which the principal Trading Market or if applicable, the OTCQB, OTCQX, or OTC Pink Markets operated by OTC Markets Group, Inc., or any similar over the counter market is open for trading.

 

Trading Market” means any of the following markets or exchanges on which the Common Stock is listed or quoted for trading on the date in question: the NYSE American, the Nasdaq Capital Market, the Nasdaq Global Market, the Nasdaq Global Select Market, the New York Stock Exchange or any successors to any of the foregoing.

 

Transaction Documents” means this Agreement and all exhibits and schedules hereto, the Lock-Up Agreements, the Underwriter’s Warrants and any other documents or agreements executed in connection with the transactions contemplated hereunder.

 

Transfer Agent” means VStock Transfer, LLC, 18 Lafayette Place, Woodmere, NY 11598.

 

Underwriter’s Warrants” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.3(a).

 

Underwriter’s Warrant Shares” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 2.3(a).

 

Underwriter’s Securities” shall mean the Underwriter’s Warrants and the Underwriter’s Warrant Shares.

 

Variable Rate Transaction” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in Section 4.21(b).

 

5

 

 

Article II.
PURCHASE AND SALE

2.1 Closing.

 

(a) Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein, the Company agrees to sell in the aggregate _________ [______], (the “Closing Shares”), and each Underwriter agrees to purchase, severally and not jointly, at the Closing, the number of Closing Shares set forth opposite the name of such Underwriter on Schedule I hereof.

 

(b) The aggregate purchase price for the Closing Shares shall equal the aggregate of the amounts set forth opposite the name of such Underwriter on Schedule I hereto (the “Closing Purchase Price”). The purchase price shall be $[______] per Closing Share ([___]% of the per Share Closing public offering price) (the “Closing Purchase Price”).

 

(c) On the Closing Date, the Closing Shares will be delivered by the Company to the Representative, for the respective accounts of the several Underwriters, against payment of the purchase price therefor by wire transfer of same day funds payable to the order of the Company at the offices of Newbridge Securities Corporation, 1200 North Federal Highway, Suite 400, Boca Raton, FL 33432, or such other location as may be mutually acceptable to the parties hereto, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, on the second (or if the Closing Shares are priced, as contemplated by Rule 15c6-1(c) under the Exchange Act, after 4:30 p.m. Eastern time, the fourth) full Business Day following the date hereof, or at such other time and date as the Representative and the Company determine pursuant to Rule 15c6-1(a) under the Exchange Act. The time and date of delivery of the Closing Shares is referred to herein as the “Closing Date.” On the Closing Date, the Company shall deliver the Closing Shares, which shall be registered in the name or names, and shall be in such denominations, as the Representative may request on behalf of the Underwriters at least one (1) business day before the Closing Date, to the respective accounts of the several Underwriters, which delivery shall be made through the facilities of the Depository Trust Company’s DWAC system.

 

(d) It is understood that the Representative has been authorized, for its own account and the accounts of the several Underwriters, to accept delivery of and receipt for, and make payment of the purchase price for, the Closing Shares that the Underwriters have agreed to purchase. The Representative, individually and not as the Representative of the Underwriters, may (but shall not be obligated to) make payment for any Closing Shares to be purchased by any Underwriter whose funds shall not have been received by the Representative by the Closing Date, as the case may be, for the account of such Underwriter, but any such payment shall not relieve such Underwriter from any of its obligations under this Agreement.

 

6

 

 

2.2 Over-Allotment Option.

 

(a) For the purposes of covering any over-allotments in connection with the distribution and sale of the Closing Shares, the Underwriters are hereby granted an option (the “Over-Allotment Option”) to purchase, in the aggregate, up to [______] shares of Company Common Stock representing 15% of the Closing Shares (the “Option Shares”).

 

(b) In connection with an exercise of the Over-Allotment Option, the purchase price to be paid for any Option Share is equal to the Closing Purchase Price, the “Option Closing Purchase Price”).

 

(c) The Over-Allotment Option granted pursuant to this Section 2.2 may be exercised by the Representative as to all (at any time) or any part (from time to time) of the Option Shares within 45 days after the Closing Date. An Underwriter will not be under any obligation to purchase any Option Shares prior to the exercise of the Over-Allotment Option by the Representative. This Over-Allotment Option may be exercised by the Underwriters at any time and from time to time on or before the forty-fifth (45th) day following the Closing Date, by the giving of oral notice to the Company from the Representative, followed promptly by written or electronic notice to the Company of such exercise (the “Option Notice”). The Option Notice shall set forth the aggregate number of Option Shares as to which such Over-Allotment Option is being exercised, and the date and time when the Option Shares are to be delivered (such date and time being herein referred to as the “Option Closing Date”); provided, however, that the Option Closing Date shall not be earlier than the Closing Date nor earlier than the first (1st) business day after the date on which the Over-Allotment Option shall have been exercised nor later than the fifth (5th) business day after the date on which such Over-Allotment Option shall have been exercised unless the Company and the Underwriters otherwise agree. If the Underwriters elect to purchase less than all of the Option Shares, the Company agrees to sell to the Underwriters the number of Option Shares obtained by multiplying the number of Option Shares specified in such notice by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of Option Shares set forth opposite the name of the Underwriters in Schedule I hereto under the caption “Number of Option Shares to be Purchased if the Over-Allotment Option is Fully Exercised” and the denominator of which is the total number of Option Shares. The Representative may retract its exercise of such Over-Allotment Option at any time prior to the Option Closing Date by written notice to the Company.

 

(d) Payment of the purchase price for and delivery of the Option Shares shall be made on the Option Closing Date in the same manner and at the same office as the payment for the Closing Shares as set forth in Section 2.1(c) hereof.

 

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2.3 Underwriter’s Securities.

 

(a) Underwriter’s Warrants. On the Closing Date, the Company shall issue to the Representative (and/or its designees), warrants, in the form Exhibit C attached hereto (the “Underwriter’s Warrants”), for the purchase of up to an aggregate of [______] shares of Common Stock (which is equal to an aggregate of 7% of the Closing Shares sold on the Closing Date), (and, in the event that the Underwriters exercise the over-allotment option, on each Option Closing Date, the Company shall issue to the Representative (and/or its designees) Underwriter’s Warrants for the purchase of up to 7% of the Option Shares sold on the Option Closing Date (up to an aggregate of [_______] shares of Common Stock if such over-allotment option is exercised in full), which Underwriter’s Warrants shall be registered in the name or names, and shall be in such denominations, as the Representative may request at least one (1) business day before the Closing Date and Option Closing Date, if any. The shares of Common Stock underlying the Underwriter’s Warrants are referred to herein as the “Underwriter’s Warrant Shares.” The Underwriter’s Warrants shall be exercisable, in whole or in part, commencing on a date which is one hundred eighty (180) days from the commencement of sales of the Closing Shares and Option Shares, as applicable, and expiring on the three-year anniversary of the Effective Date at an initial exercise price per share of Common Stock of $____, which is equal to the Closing Purchase Price. The Representative understand and agree that there are significant lock-up restrictions pursuant to FINRA Rule 5110 against transferring the Underwriter’s Warrants and the Underwriter’s Warrant Shares during the one hundred eighty (180) days from the commencement of sales of the Closing Shares and Option Shares, as applicable, and by its acceptance thereof agrees that it will not sell, transfer, assign, pledge or hypothecate the Underwriter’s Warrants, or any portion thereof, or have such securities be the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of such securities for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days from the commencement of sales of the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as applicable, to anyone except (i) by operation of law or by reason of reorganization of the Company; (ii) to the Representative or any Underwriter or FINRA member firm participating in the Offering, and the respective officers, partners, registered persons or affiliates thereof, if all such securities so transferred remain subject to the lock-up restriction in this Section 4(f) for the remainder of such time period, (iii) if the aggregate amount of securities of the Company held by the Representative or participating FINRA member firm do not exceed 1% of the Company’s securities being offered in connection with the offering of Closing Shares, (iv) such securities are beneficially owned on a pro-rata basis by all equity owners of an investment fund, provided that no participating FINRA member manages or otherwise directs investments by the fund, and participating FINRA members in the aggregate do not own more than 10% of the equity in the fund, (v) of an issuer that meets the registration requirements of Commission Forms S-3, F-3 or F-10, (vi) if such securities are considered non-convertible or non-exchangeable debt securities acquired in a transaction related to the offering and sale of the Closing Shares, (vii) if such securities are considered derivative instruments acquired in connection with a hedging transaction related to the offering and sale of the Securities and at a fair price, (viii) such securities were acquired in a transaction meeting the requirements of FINRA Rule 5110(d), (ix) such securities were received as underwriting compensation, and are registered and sold as part of a firm commitment offering, (x) such securities are “actively-traded” (as defined in Rule 101(c)(1) of Regulation M promulgated by the Commission), (xi) such securities are transferred or sold back to the Company in a transaction exempt from registration with the Commission, or (xii) the exercise of the Underwriter’s Warrants, if such warrants and the Underwriter’s Warrant Shares remain subject to the lock-up restriction in this Section 2.3(a) for the remainder of such time period.

 

(b) Delivery. Delivery of the Underwriter’s Warrants shall be made on the Closing Date and Option Closing Date, as applicable, and shall be issued in the name or names and in such authorized denominations as the Representative may request.

 

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2.4 Deliveries. The Company shall deliver or cause to be delivered to each Underwriter (if applicable) the following:

 

(a) At the Closing Date, the Closing Shares and, as to each Option Closing Date, if any, the applicable Option Shares, which shares of Common Stock shall be delivered via The Depository Trust Company Deposit or Withdrawal at Custodian system for the accounts of the several Underwriters;

 

(b) At the Closing Date, and, as to each Option Closing Date, if any, the Underwriter’s Warrants issuable pursuant to Section 2.3;

 

(c) At the Closing Date, legal opinions of Company Counsel addressed to the Underwriters, including, without limitation, a negative assurance letter, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative and as to the Closing Date and as to each Option Closing Date, if any, bring-down opinions from Company Counsel in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative, including, without limitation, a negative assurance letter, addressed to the Underwriters and in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative;

 

(d) Contemporaneously herewith, a cold comfort letter, addressed to the Underwriters and in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative from the Company Auditor dated as of the date of this Agreement and a bring-down letter dated as of the Closing Date and each Option Closing Date, if any;

 

(e) On the Closing Date and on each Option Closing Date, the duly executed and delivered Officer’s Certificate, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative;

 

(f) On the Closing Date and on each Option Closing Date, the duly executed and delivered Chief Financial Officer’s Certificate, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative;

 

(g) On the Closing Date and on each Option Closing Date, the duly executed and delivered Secretary’s Certificate, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representative;

 

(h) Contemporaneously herewith, the duly executed and delivered Lock-Up Agreements in the Forms attached hereto as Exhibit A and Exhibit B, as applicable; and

 

(i) Such other certificates, opinions or documents as the Underwriters and DW may reasonably request.

 

2.5 Closing Conditions. The respective obligations of each Underwriter hereunder in connection with the Closing and each Option Closing Date are subject to the following conditions being met:

 

(a) the accuracy in all material respects when made and on the date in question of the representations and warranties of the Company contained herein (unless as of a specific date therein, in which case they shall be true and correct only as of such date) (other than representations and warranties of the Company already qualified by materiality, which shall be true and correct in all respects);

 

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(b) all obligations, covenants and agreements of the Company required to be performed at or prior to the date in question shall have been performed;

 

(c) the delivery by the Company of the items set forth in Section 2.4 of this Agreement;

 

(d) the Registration Statement shall be effective on the date of this Agreement and at each of the Closing Date and each Option Closing Date, if any, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for that purpose shall have been instituted or shall be pending or contemplated by the Commission and any request on the part of the Commission for additional information shall have been complied with to the reasonable satisfaction of the Representative;

 

(e) by the Execution Date, if required by FINRA, the Underwriters shall have received a notice of no objections from FINRA as to the amount of compensation allowable or payable to and the terms and arrangements for acting as the Underwriters as described in the Registration Statement;

 

(f) the Closing Shares, the Option Shares, if any, and the Underwriter’s Warrant Shares have been approved for listing on the Trading Market subject only to official notice of issuance; and

 

(g) prior to and on each of the Closing Date and each Option Closing Date, if any: (i) there shall have been no material adverse change in the condition or the business activities, financial or otherwise, of the Company from the latest dates as of which such condition is set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package (as defined in Section 3.1(f) below) and the Prospectus; (ii) no action suit or proceeding, at law or in equity, shall have been pending or, to the Company’s knowledge, threatened against the Company or any Affiliate of the Company before or by any court or federal or state commission, board or other administrative agency wherein an unfavorable decision, ruling or finding may materially adversely affect the business, operations, or financial condition or income of the Company, except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus; (iii) no stop order applicable to the Company shall have been issued under the Securities Act and no proceedings therefor shall have been initiated or threatened by the Commission; (iv) the Company has not incurred any material liabilities or obligations, direct or contingent, nor has it entered into any material transactions not in the ordinary course of business, other than pursuant to this Agreement and the transactions referred to herein; (v) the Company has not paid or declared any dividends or other distributions of any kind on any class of its capital stock; (vi) the Company has not altered its method of accounting, in any material respect; and (vii) the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto shall contain all material statements which are required to be stated therein in accordance with the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder and shall conform in all material respects to the requirements of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, and neither the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package nor the Prospectus nor any amendment or supplement thereto shall contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any 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.

 

If any of the conditions specified in this Section 2.5 shall not have been fulfilled when and as required by this Agreement, or if any of the certificates, opinions, written statements or letters furnished to the Representative or to Representative’s counsel pursuant to this Section 2.5 shall not be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Representative and to Representative’s counsel, all obligations of the Underwriters hereunder may be cancelled by the Representative at, or at any time prior to, the consummation of the Closing. Notice of such cancellation shall be given to the Company in writing or orally. Any such oral notice shall be confirmed promptly thereafter in writing.

 

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Article III.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

3.1 Representations and Warranties of the Company. Except as set forth in the Disclosure Schedules, which Disclosure Schedules shall be deemed a part hereof and shall qualify any representation or warranty otherwise made herein to the extent of the disclosure contained in the corresponding section of the Disclosure Schedules, the Company represents and warrants to the Underwriters as of the Execution Date, as of the Closing Date and as of each Option Closing Date, if any, as follows:

 

(a) Subsidiaries. All of the direct and indirect Subsidiaries of the Company are described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus. Except as set forth on Schedule 3.1(a) hereto, the Company owns, directly or indirectly, all of its capital stock or other equity interests of each Subsidiary free and clear of any Liens, charges, security interests, encumbrances, rights of first refusal, preemptive rights or other restrictions, and all of the issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of each Subsidiary are validly issued and are fully paid, non-assessable and free of preemptive and similar rights to subscribe for or purchase securities.

 

(b) Organization and Qualification. The Company and each of the Subsidiaries is an entity duly incorporated or otherwise organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or organization, with the requisite power and authority to own and use its properties and assets and to carry on its business as currently conducted. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is in violation nor default of any of the provisions of its respective certificate or articles of incorporation, bylaws or other organizational or charter documents, in any material respect. Each of the Company and the Subsidiaries is duly qualified to conduct business and is in good standing as a foreign corporation or other entity in each jurisdiction in which the nature of the business conducted or property owned by it makes such qualification necessary, except where the failure to be so qualified or in good standing, as the case may be, could not have or reasonably be expected to result in: (i) a material adverse effect on the legality, validity or enforceability of any Transaction Document, (ii) a material adverse effect on the results of operations, assets, business, prospects or condition (financial or otherwise) of the Company and the Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (iii) a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to perform in any material respect on a timely basis its obligations under any Transaction Document (any of (i), (ii) or (iii), a “Material Adverse Effect”) and no Proceeding has been instituted in any such jurisdiction revoking, limiting or curtailing or seeking to revoke, limit or curtail such power and authority or qualification.

 

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(c) Authorization; Enforcement. The Company has the requisite corporate power and authority to enter into and to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and each of the other Transaction Documents to which it is a party and otherwise to carry out its obligations hereunder and thereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and each of the other Transaction Documents by the Company and the consummation by it of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of the Company and no further action is required by the Company, the Board of Directors or the Company’s stockholders in connection herewith or therewith other than in connection with the Required Approvals. This Agreement and each other Transaction Document to which the Company is a party has been (or upon delivery will have been) duly executed by the Company and, when delivered in accordance with the terms hereof and thereof, will constitute the valid and binding obligation of the Company enforceable against the Company in accordance with its terms, except (i) as limited by general equitable principles and applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and other laws of general application affecting enforcement of creditors’ rights generally, (ii) as limited by laws relating to the availability of specific performance, injunctive relief or other equitable remedies and (iii) insofar as indemnification and contribution provisions may be limited by applicable law.

 

(d) No Conflicts. The execution, delivery and performance by the Company of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents to which it is a party, the issuance and sale of the Securities and the consummation by it of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby do not and will not (i) conflict with or violate any provision of the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s certificate or articles of incorporation, bylaws or other organizational or charter documents, or (ii) conflict with, or constitute a default (or an event that with notice or lapse of time or both would become a default) under, result in the creation of any Lien upon any of the properties or assets of the Company or any Subsidiary, or give to others any rights of termination, amendment, acceleration or cancellation (with or without notice, lapse of time or both) of, any agreement, credit facility, debt or other instrument (evidencing a Company or Subsidiary debt or otherwise) or other understanding to which the Company or any Subsidiary is a party or by which any property or asset of the Company or any Subsidiary is bound or affected, or (iii) subject to the Required Approvals, conflict with or result in a violation of any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment, injunction, decree or other restriction of any court or governmental authority to which the Company or a Subsidiary is subject (including federal and state securities laws and regulations), or by which any property or asset of the Company or a Subsidiary is bound or affected; except in the case of each of clauses (ii) and (iii), such as could not have or reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(e) Filings, Consents and Approvals. The Company is not required to obtain any consent, waiver, authorization or order of, give any notice to, or make any filing or registration with, any court or other federal, state, local or other governmental authority or other Person in connection with the execution, delivery and performance by the Company of the Transaction Documents, other than: (i) the filing with the Commission of the Prospectus, (ii) such filings as are required to be made under applicable state securities laws and (iii) application(s) to each applicable Trading Market for the listing of the Closing Shares, and the Option Shares, if applicable, for trading thereon in the time and manner required thereby (collectively, the “Required Approvals”).

 

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(f) Registration Statement. The Company has filed with the Commission the Registration Statement, including any related Preliminary Prospectuses or Prospectuses, for the registration of the Securities under the Securities Act, which Registration Statement has been prepared by the Company in conformity with the requirements of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission under the Securities Act. The Common Stock was registered under the Exchange Act by the filing of a Form 10 registration statement with the Commission on or prior to and is effective on the Execution Date. Copies of such Registration Statement and of each amendment thereto, if any, including the related Preliminary Prospectuses, heretofore filed by the Company with the Commission have been delivered to the Underwriters. The term “Registration Statement” means the registration statement on Form S-1, as amended (File No. 333-259197), as of the relevant Effective Date, including financial statements, all exhibits and any information deemed to be included or incorporated by reference therein, including any information deemed to be included pursuant to Rule 430A or Rule 430B of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, as applicable. If the Company files a registration statement to register a portion of the Securities and relies on Rule 462(b) of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder for such registration statement to become effective upon filing with the Commission (the “Rule 462 Registration Statement”), then any reference to the “Registration Statement” shall be deemed to include the Rule 462 Registration Statement, as amended from time to time. The term “Preliminary Prospectus” as used herein means a preliminary prospectus as contemplated by Rule 430 or Rule 430A of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder as included at any time as part of, or deemed to be part of or included in, the Registration Statement. The term “Prospectus” means the final prospectus in connection with this Offering as first filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder or, if no such filing is required, the form of final prospectus included in the Registration Statement at the Effective Date, except that if any revised prospectus or prospectus supplement shall be provided to the Representative by the Company for use in connection with the Securities which differs from the Prospectus (whether or not such revised prospectus or prospectus supplement is required to be filed by the Company pursuant to Rule 424(b)), the term “Prospectus” shall also refer to such revised prospectus or prospectus supplement, as the case may be, from and after the time it is first provided to the Representative for such use. Any reference herein to the terms “amend”, “amendment” or “supplement” with respect to the Registration Statement, any Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus shall be deemed to refer to and include: (i) the filing of any document under the Exchange Act after the Effective Date, the date of such Preliminary Prospectus or the date of the Prospectus, as the case may be, which is incorporated therein by reference, and (ii) any such document so filed. All references in this Agreement to the Registration Statement, a Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus, or any amendments or supplements to any of the foregoing shall be deemed to include any copy thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to its Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval System (“EDGAR”). The term “General Disclosure Package” means, collectively, the most recent preliminary prospectus related to this Offering and the information included on Schedule I hereto.

 

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(g) Issuance of Securities. The Closing Shares and Option Shares are duly authorized and, when issued and paid for in accordance with the applicable Transaction Documents, will be duly and validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, free and clear of all Liens imposed by the Company. The Underwriter’s Securities are duly authorized and, when issued and paid for in accordance with the applicable Transaction Documents, will be duly and validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, free and clear of all Liens imposed by the Company. The Company has reserved from its duly authorized capital stock the maximum number of shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to this Agreement and the Underwriter’s Warrants. No Securities are or will be subject to the preemptive rights of any holders of any security of the Company or similar contractual rights granted by the Company. All corporate action required to be taken for the authorization, issuance and sale of the Securities has been duly and validly taken. The Securities conform in all material respects to all statements with respect thereto contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

(h) Capitalization. The capitalization of the Company as of the Execution Date is as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus. Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company has not issued any capital stock since its most recently filed periodic report under the Exchange Act, other than pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options under the Company’s stock option plans, the issuance of shares of Common Stock to employees pursuant to the Company’s employee stock purchase plans and pursuant to the conversion and/or exercise of Common Stock Equivalents outstanding as of the date of the most recently filed periodic report under the Exchange Act. Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, no Person has any right of first refusal, preemptive right, right of participation, or any similar right to participate in the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Documents, except such rights which have been waived prior to the Execution Date. Except (i) as a result of the purchase and sale of the Securities, (ii) pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options and under the Company’s employee stock purchase plans, the issuance of shares of Common Stock to employees under the Company’s employee stock purchase plans and pursuant to conversion and/or exercise of Common Stock Equivalents outstanding as of the date of the Company’s most recently filed SEC Report, or (iii) as otherwise set forth in the SEC Reports, the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there are no outstanding options, warrants, scrip rights to subscribe to, calls or commitments of any character whatsoever relating to, or securities, rights or obligations convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for, or giving any Person any right to subscribe for or acquire, any shares of Common Stock or the capital stock of any Subsidiary, or contracts, commitments, understandings or arrangements by which the Company or any Subsidiary is or may become bound to issue additional shares of Common Stock or Common Stock Equivalents or the capital stock of any Subsidiary. Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the issuance and sale of the Securities will not obligate the Company or any Subsidiary to issue shares of Common Stock or other securities to any Person (other than the Underwriters). Other than as disclosed in the Company’s SEC Reports, there are no outstanding securities or instruments of the Company or any Subsidiary that contain any redemption or similar provisions, and there are no contracts, commitments, understandings or arrangements by which the Company or any Subsidiary is or may become bound to redeem a security of the Company or such Subsidiary. The Company does not have any stock appreciation rights or “phantom stock” plans or agreements or any similar plan or agreement. All of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company are duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, have been issued in compliance with all federal and state securities laws, and none of such outstanding shares was issued in violation of any preemptive rights or similar rights to subscribe for or purchase securities. The authorized shares of the Company conform in all material respects to all statements relating thereto contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus. The offers and sales of the Company’s securities were at all relevant times either registered under the Securities Act and the applicable state securities or Blue Sky laws or, based in part on the representations and warranties of the purchasers, exempt from such registration requirements. No further approval or authorization of any stockholder, the Board of Directors or others is required for the issuance and sale of the Securities. There are no stockholders agreements, voting agreements or other similar agreements with respect to the Company’s capital stock to which the Company is a party or, to the knowledge of the Company, between or among any of the Company’s stockholders.

 

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(i) SEC Reports; Financial Statements. The Company has filed all reports, schedules, forms, statements and other documents required to be filed by the Company under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, including pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) thereof, for the two years preceding the Execution Date (or such shorter period as the Company was required by law or regulation to file such material) (the foregoing materials, including the exhibits thereto and documents incorporated by reference therein, together with the Prospectus, being collectively referred to herein as the “SEC Reports”) on a timely basis or has received a valid extension of such time of filing and has filed any such SEC Reports prior to the expiration of any such extension. As of their respective dates, the SEC Reports complied in all material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, as applicable, and none of the SEC Reports, when filed, contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The financial statements of the Company included in the SEC Reports comply in all material respects with applicable accounting requirements and the rules and regulations of the Commission with respect thereto as in effect at the time of filing. Such financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis during the periods involved (“GAAP”), except as may be otherwise specified in such financial statements or the notes thereto and except that unaudited financial statements may not contain all footnotes required by GAAP, and fairly present in all material respects the financial position of the Company and its consolidated Subsidiaries as of and for the dates thereof and the results of operations and cash flows for the periods then ended, subject, in the case of unaudited statements, to normal, immaterial, year-end audit adjustments. The agreements and documents described in the Registration Statement, the Preliminary Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus and the SEC Reports conform in all material aspects to the descriptions thereof contained therein and there are no agreements or other documents required by the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder to be described in the Registration Statement, the Preliminary Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus or the SEC Reports or to be filed with the Commission as exhibits to the Registration Statement, that have not been so described or filed. Each agreement or other instrument (however characterized or described) to which the Company is a party or by which it is or may be bound or affected and (i) that is referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus or the SEC Reports, or (ii) is material to the Company’s business, has been duly authorized and validly executed by the Company, is in full force and effect in all material respects and is enforceable against the Company and, to the Company’s knowledge, the other parties thereto, in accordance with its terms, except (x) as such enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally, (y) as enforceability of any indemnification or contribution provision may be limited under the federal and state securities laws, and (z) that the remedy of specific performance and injunctive and other forms of equitable relief may be subject to the equitable defenses and to the discretion of the court before which any proceeding therefore may be brought. None of such agreements or instruments has been assigned by the Company, and neither the Company nor, to the best of the Company’s knowledge, any other party is in default thereunder and, to the best of the Company’s knowledge, no event has occurred that, with the lapse of time or the giving of notice, or both, would constitute a default thereunder. To the best of the Company’s knowledge, performance by the Company of the material provisions of such agreements or instruments will not result in a violation of any existing applicable law, rule, regulation, judgment, order or decree of any governmental agency or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction over the Company or any of its assets or businesses, including, without limitation, those relating to environmental laws and regulations.

 

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(j) Material Changes; Undisclosed Events, Liabilities or Developments. Since the date of the latest audited financial statements included within the SEC Reports, except as specifically disclosed in a subsequent SEC Report filed prior to the Execution Date, (i) there has been no event, occurrence or development that has had or that could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, (ii) the Company has not incurred any liabilities (contingent or otherwise) other than (A) trade payables and accrued expenses incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice and (B) liabilities not required to be reflected in the Company’s financial statements pursuant to GAAP or disclosed in filings made with the Commission, (iii) the Company has not altered its method of accounting in any material respect, (iv) the Company has not declared or made any dividend or distribution of cash or other property to its stockholders or purchased, redeemed or made any agreements to purchase or redeem any shares of its capital stock and (v) the Company has not issued any equity securities to any officer, director or Affiliate, except pursuant to existing Company stock option plans and employee stock purchase plans, the issuance of Common Stock Equivalents as disclosed in the SEC Reports. The Company does not have pending before the Commission any request for confidential treatment of information. Except for the issuance of the Securities contemplated by this Agreement, no event, liability, fact, circumstance, occurrence or development has occurred or exists with respect to the Company or its Subsidiaries or their respective businesses, prospects, properties, operations, assets or financial condition that would be required to be disclosed by the Company under applicable securities laws at the time this representation is made or deemed made that has not been publicly disclosed at least one (1) Trading Day prior to the date that this representation is made. Unless otherwise disclosed in an SEC Report filed prior to the Execution Date, the Company has not: (i) issued any securities or incurred any liability or obligation, direct or contingent, for borrowed money; or (ii) declared or paid any dividend or made any other distribution on or in respect to its capital stock.

 

(k) Litigation. There are no actions, suits, inquiries, notices of violation, proceedings or investigations pending or, to the knowledge of the Company, threatened against or affecting the Company, any Subsidiary or any of their respective properties before or by any court, arbitrator, governmental or administrative agency or regulatory authority (federal, state, county, local or foreign) (collectively, an “Action”) which (i) adversely affects or challenges the legality, validity or enforceability of any of the Transaction Documents or the Securities or (ii) could, if there were an unfavorable decision, have or reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary, nor, to the Company’s knowledge, any director or officer thereof, is or has been the subject of any Action involving a claim of violation of or liability under federal or state securities laws or a claim of breach of fiduciary duty. To the knowledge of the Company, there has not been, and there is not pending or threatened, any investigation by the Commission involving the Company or any current or former director or officer of the Company. There are no Actions required to be disclosed in the SEC Reports that have not been disclosed. The Commission has not issued any stop order or other order suspending the effectiveness of any registration statement filed by the Company or any Subsidiary under the Exchange Act or the Securities Act.

 

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(l) Labor Relations. No labor dispute exists or, to the knowledge of the Company, is imminent with respect to any of the employees of the Company, which could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect. None of the Company’s or its Subsidiaries’ employees is a member of a union that relates to such employee’s relationship with the Company or such Subsidiary, and neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to a collective bargaining agreement and the Company and its Subsidiaries believe that their relationship with their employees are good. To the knowledge of the Company, no executive officer of the Company or any Subsidiary, is in violation of any material term of any employment contract, confidentiality, disclosure or proprietary information agreement or non-competition agreement, or any other contract or agreement or any restrictive covenant in favor of any third party, and the continued employment of each such executive officer does not subject the Company or any of its Subsidiaries to any liability with respect to any of the foregoing matters that would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The Company and its Subsidiaries are in compliance with all U.S. federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to employment and employment practices, terms and conditions of employment and wages and hours, except where the failure to be in compliance could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(m) Compliance. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary: (i) is in default under or in violation of (and no event has occurred that has not been waived that, with notice or lapse of time or both, would result in a default by the Company or any Subsidiary under), nor has the Company or any Subsidiary received notice of a claim that it is in default under or that it is in violation of, any indenture, loan or credit agreement or any other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it or any of its properties is bound (whether or not such default or violation has been waived), (ii) is in violation of any judgment, decree or order of any court, arbitrator or other governmental authority or (iii) is or has been in violation of any statute, rule, ordinance or regulation of any governmental authority, including without limitation all foreign, federal, state and local laws relating to taxes, environmental protection, occupational health and safety, product quality and safety and employment and labor matters, except in each case as could not have or reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(n) Environmental Laws. The Company and its Subsidiaries (i) are in compliance in all material respects with all federal, state, local and foreign laws relating to pollution or protection of human health or the environment (including ambient air, surface water, groundwater, land surface or subsurface strata), including laws relating to emissions, discharges, releases or threatened releases of chemicals, pollutants, contaminants, or toxic or hazardous substances or wastes (collectively, “Hazardous Materials”) into the environment, or otherwise relating to the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, treatment, storage, disposal, transport or handling of Hazardous Materials, as well as all authorizations, codes, decrees, demands, or demand letters, injunctions, judgments, licenses, notices or notice letters, orders, permits, plans or regulations, issued, entered, promulgated or approved thereunder (“Environmental Laws”); (ii) have received all permits licenses or other approvals required of them under applicable Environmental Laws to conduct their respective businesses; and (iii) are in compliance with all terms and conditions of any such permit, license or approval where in each clause (i), (ii) and (iii), the failure to so comply could be reasonably expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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(o) Regulatory Permits. The Company and the Subsidiaries possess all licenses, certificates, authorizations, approvals, clearances, consents, registrations, and permits issued by the appropriate federal, state, local or foreign regulatory authorities applicable to the Company (“Applicable Laws”) necessary to conduct their respective businesses as described in the SEC Reports, except where the failure to possess such permits could not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect (each, an “Authorization”), and neither the Company nor any Subsidiary has received any notice of proceedings relating to the revocation or modification of any Authorization or the noncompliance with any ordinance, law, rule or regulation applicable to the Company. The disclosures in the SEC Reports, Registration Statement the Preliminary Prospectus, and Prospectus concerning the effects of federal, state, local and all foreign regulation on the Company’s business as currently contemplated are correct in all material respects. The Company is and has been in material compliance with any term of any such Authorizations, except for any violations which would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. The Company has not received notice of any claim, action, suit, proceeding, hearing, enforcement, investigation, arbitration or other action from any governmental authority or body or third party alleging that any product, operation or activity is in violation of any Applicable Laws or Authorizations or has any knowledge that any such entity or third party is considering any such claim, litigation, arbitration, action, suit, investigation or proceeding, nor, to the Company’s knowledge, has there been any material noncompliance with or violation of any Applicable Laws by the Company that could reasonably be expected to require the issuance of any such communication or result in an investigation, corrective action, or enforcement action by any governmental body or entity.

 

(p) Title to Assets. The Company and the Subsidiaries have good and marketable title in fee simple to all real property owned by them and good and marketable title in all personal property owned by them that is material to the business of the Company and the Subsidiaries, in each case free and clear of all Liens, except for (i) Liens as do not materially affect the value of such property and do not materially interfere with the use made and proposed to be made of such property by the Company and the Subsidiaries and (ii) Liens for the payment of federal, state or other taxes, for which appropriate reserves have been made therefor in accordance with GAAP and, the payment of which is neither delinquent nor subject to penalties.

 

(q) Intellectual Property. The Company and the Subsidiaries have, or have rights to use, all patents, patent applications, trademarks, trademark applications, service marks, trade names, trade secrets, inventions, copyrights, licenses and other intellectual property rights and similar rights necessary or required for use in connection with their respective businesses as described in the SEC Reports and which the failure to so have could have a Material Adverse Effect (collectively, the “Intellectual Property Rights”). None of, and neither the Company nor any Subsidiary has received a notice (written or otherwise) that any of, the Intellectual Property Rights has expired, terminated or been abandoned, or is expected to expire or terminate or be abandoned, within two (2) years from the date of this Agreement, except where such action would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Other than as specifically described in the SEC Reports, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary has received, since the date of the latest audited financial statements included within the SEC Reports, a written notice of a claim or otherwise has any knowledge that the Company’s products or planned products as described in the SEC Reports violate or infringe upon the rights of any Person, except as could not have or reasonably be expected to not have a Material Adverse Effect. To the knowledge of the Company, all such Intellectual Property Rights are enforceable and there is no existing infringement by another Person of any of the Intellectual Property Rights. The Company and its Subsidiaries have taken reasonable security measures to protect the secrecy, confidentiality and value of all of their intellectual properties, except where failure to do so could not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

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(r) Insurance. The Company and the Subsidiaries are insured by insurers of recognized financial responsibility against such losses and risks and in such amounts as are prudent and customary in the businesses in which the Company and the Subsidiaries are engaged, including, but not limited to, directors and officers insurance coverage. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary has any reason to believe that it will not be able to renew its existing insurance coverage as and when such coverage expires or to obtain similar coverage from similar insurers as may be necessary to continue its business without a significant increase in cost.

 

(s) Transactions With Affiliates and Employees. Except as set forth in the SEC Reports, Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, none of the officers or directors of the Company or any Subsidiary and, to the knowledge of the Company, none of the employees of the Company or any Subsidiary is presently a party to any transaction with the Company or any Subsidiary (other than for services as employees, officers and directors), including any contract, agreement or other arrangement providing for the furnishing of services to or by, providing for rental of real or personal property to or from, providing for the borrowing of money from or lending of money to or otherwise requiring payments to or from, any officer, director or such employee or, to the knowledge of the Company, any entity in which any officer, director, or any such employee has a substantial interest or is an officer, director, trustee, stockholder, member or partner, in each case in excess of $120,000 other than for (i) payment of salary or consulting fees for services rendered, (ii) reimbursement for expenses incurred on behalf of the Company and (iii) other employee benefits, including stock option agreements under any stock option plan of the Company.

 

(t) Sarbanes-Oxley; Internal Accounting Controls. The Company and the Subsidiaries are in material compliance with any and all applicable requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 that are effective as of the Execution Date, and any and all applicable rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission thereunder that are effective as of the Execution Date and as of the Closing Date. The Company and the Subsidiaries maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurance that: (i) transactions are executed in accordance with management’s general or specific authorizations, (ii) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP and to maintain asset accountability, (iii) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management’s general or specific authorization, and (iv) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences. The Company and the Subsidiaries have established disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the Company and the Subsidiaries and designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms. The Company’s certifying officers have evaluated the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures of the Company and the Subsidiaries as of the end of the period covered by the most recently filed periodic report under the Exchange Act (such date, the “Evaluation Date”). The Company presented in its most recently filed periodic report under the Exchange Act the conclusions of the certifying officers about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on their evaluations as of the Evaluation Date. Since the Evaluation Date, there have been no changes in the internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in the Exchange Act) of the Company and its Subsidiaries that have materially adversely affected, or is reasonably likely to materially adversely affect, the internal control over financial reporting of the Company and its Subsidiaries.

 

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(u) Certain Fees. Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, no brokerage or finder’s fees or commissions are or will be payable by the Company, any Subsidiary or Affiliate of the Company to any broker, financial advisor or consultant, finder, placement agent, investment banker, bank or other Person with respect to the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Documents. There are no other arrangements, agreements or understandings of the Company or, to the Company’s knowledge, any of its stockholders that may affect the Underwriters’ compensation, as determined by FINRA. Other than payments to the Underwriters for this Offering (including the issuance to the Representative of the Underwriter’s Warrants, the Company has not made and has no agreements, arrangements or understanding to make any direct or indirect payments (in cash, securities or otherwise) to: (i) any person, as a finder’s fee, consulting fee or otherwise, in consideration of such person raising capital for the Company or introducing to the Company persons who raised or provided capital to the Company; (ii) any FINRA member; or (iii) any person or entity that has any direct or indirect affiliation or association with any FINRA member, within the 180-day period preceding the date on which sales of the Securities in connection with the Offering commences through the 90-day period after such date. None of the net proceeds of the Offering will be paid by the Company to any participating FINRA member or its affiliates, except as specifically authorized herein.

 

(v) Investment Company. The Company is not, and is not an Affiliate of, and immediately after receipt of payment for the Securities will not be or be an Affiliate of, an “investment company” within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The Company shall conduct its business in a manner so that it will not become an “investment company” subject to registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

 

(w) Registration Rights. No Person has any right to cause the Company or any Subsidiary to effect the registration under the Securities Act of any securities of the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

(x) Listing and Maintenance Requirements. The Common Stock is registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act, and the Company has taken no action designed to, or which to its knowledge is likely to have the effect of, terminating the registration of the Common Stock under the Exchange Act nor has the Company received any notification that the Commission is contemplating terminating such registration. Except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the Company has not, in the 12 months preceding the Execution Date, received notice from any Trading Market on which the Common Stock is or has been listed or quoted to the effect that the Company is not in compliance with the listing or maintenance requirements of such Trading Market. The Company is in compliance with all such listing and maintenance requirements. The Common Stock is currently eligible for electronic transfer through the Depository Trust Company or another established clearing corporation and the Company is current in payment of the fees of the Depository Trust Company (or such other established clearing corporation) in connection with such electronic transfer.

 

(y) Application of Takeover Protections. The Company and the Board of Directors have taken or prior to the Initial Closing will have taken all necessary action within its power, if any, in order to render inapplicable any control share acquisition, business combination, poison pill (including any distribution under a rights agreement) or other similar anti-takeover provision under the Company’s certificate of incorporation (or similar charter documents) or the laws of its state of incorporation that is or would become applicable as a result of the Underwriters and the Company fulfilling their obligations or exercising their rights under the Transaction Documents.

 

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(z) Disclosure; 10b-5. The Registration Statement (and any further documents to be filed with the Commission in connection with the Offering) contains and will contain all exhibits and schedules as required by the Securities Act. Each of the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus, Prospectus and any post-effective amendment thereto, if any, at the time it became effective, complied in all material respects with the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and the applicable rules and regulations under the Securities Act and did not and, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will not, contain any 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. The Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus and Prospectus, each as of its respective date, comply in all material respects with the Securities Act and the Exchange Act and the applicable rules and regulations. The Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus, and Prospectus, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, did not and will not contain as of the date thereof any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except for any statements in or omissions from the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus, and Prospectus based upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Company by any Underwriter, it being understood that such information furnished by any Underwriter shall consist of the Underwriters’ Information. As of its date and the Execution Date, the General Disclosure Package did not and does not include any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, except for any statements in or omissions from the General Disclosure Package based upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Company by any Underwriter, it being understood that such information furnished by any Underwriter shall consist of the Underwriters’ Information. The SEC Reports, when they were filed with the Commission, conformed in all material respects to the requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, as applicable, and the applicable rules and regulations, and none of such documents, when they were filed with the Commission, contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein (with respect to the SEC Reports incorporated by reference in the Prospectus), in light of the circumstances under which they were made not misleading; and any further documents so filed and incorporated by reference in the Prospectus, when such documents are filed with the Commission, will conform in all material respects to the requirements of the Exchange Act and the applicable rules and regulations, as applicable, and will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made not misleading. No post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement reflecting any facts or events arising after the date thereof which represent, individually or in the aggregate, a fundamental change in the information set forth therein is required to be filed with the Commission. There are no documents required to be filed with the Commission in connection with the transaction contemplated hereby that (x) have not been filed as required pursuant to the Securities Act or (y) will not be filed within the requisite time period. There are no contracts or other documents required to be described in the Preliminary Prospectus or Prospectus, or to be filed as exhibits or schedules to the Registration Statement, which have not been described or filed as required. The press releases disseminated by the Company during the twelve months preceding the date of this Agreement taken as a whole do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made and when made, not misleading.

 

(aa) No Integrated Offering. Neither the Company, nor any of its Affiliates, nor any Person acting on its or their behalf has, directly or indirectly, made any offers or sales of any security or solicited any offers to buy any security, under circumstances that would cause this offering of the Securities to be integrated with prior offerings by the Company for purposes of any applicable shareholder approval provisions of any Trading Market on which any of the securities of the Company are listed or designated.

 

(bb) Solvency. Based on the consolidated financial condition of the Company as of the Closing Date, after giving effect to the receipt by the Company of the proceeds from the sale of the Securities hereunder, (i) the fair saleable value of the Company’s assets exceeds the amount that will be required to be paid on or in respect of the Company’s existing debts and other liabilities (including known contingent liabilities) as they mature, (ii) the Company’s assets do not constitute unreasonably small capital to carry on its business as now conducted and as proposed to be conducted including its capital needs taking into account the particular capital requirements of the business conducted by the Company, consolidated and projected capital requirements and capital availability thereof, and (iii) the current cash flow of the Company, together with the proceeds the Company would receive, were it to liquidate all of its assets, after taking into account all anticipated uses of the cash, would be sufficient to pay all amounts on or in respect of its liabilities when such amounts are required to be paid. The Company does not intend to incur debts beyond its ability to pay such debts as they mature (taking into account the timing and amounts of cash to be payable on or in respect of its debt). The Company has no knowledge of any facts or circumstances which lead it to believe that it will file for reorganization or liquidation under the bankruptcy or reorganization laws of any jurisdiction within one year from the Closing Date. The SEC Reports sets forth as of the Execution Date all outstanding secured and unsecured Indebtedness of the Company or any Subsidiary, or for which the Company or any Subsidiary has commitments. Other than disclosed in the SEC Reports, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is in default with respect to any Indebtedness.

 

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(cc) Tax Status. The Company and its Subsidiaries each (i) has made or filed all United States federal, state and local income and all foreign income and franchise tax returns, reports and declarations required by any jurisdiction to which it is subject, (ii) has paid all taxes and other governmental assessments and charges that are material in amount, shown or determined to be due on such returns, reports and declarations and (iii) has set aside on its books provision reasonably adequate for the payment of all material taxes for periods subsequent to the periods to which such returns, reports or declarations apply. There are no unpaid taxes in any material amount claimed to be due by the taxing authority of any jurisdiction, and the officers of the Company or of any Subsidiary know of no basis for any such claim. The provisions for taxes payable, if any, shown on the financial statements filed with or as part of the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus and Prospectus are sufficient for all accrued and unpaid taxes, whether or not disputed, and for all periods to and including the dates of such consolidated financial statements. The term “taxes” mean all federal, state, local, foreign, and other net income, gross income, gross receipts, sales, use, ad valorem, transfer, franchise, profits, license, lease, service, service use, withholding, payroll, employment, excise, severance, stamp, occupation, premium, property, windfall profits, customs, duties or other taxes, fees, assessments, or charges of any kind whatsoever, together with any interest and any penalties, additions to tax, or additional amounts with respect thereto. The term “returns” means all returns, declarations, reports, statements, and other documents required to be filed in respect to taxes.

 

(dd) Foreign Corrupt Practices. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary, nor to the knowledge of the Company or any Subsidiary, any agent or other person acting on behalf of the Company or any Subsidiary, has (i) directly or indirectly, used any funds for unlawful contributions, gifts, entertainment or other unlawful expenses related to foreign or domestic political activity, (ii) made any unlawful payment to foreign or domestic government officials or employees or to any foreign or domestic political parties or campaigns from corporate funds, (iii) failed to disclose fully any contribution made by the Company or any Subsidiary (or made by any person acting on its behalf of which the Company is aware) which is in violation of law, or (iv) violated in any material respect any provision of FCPA. The Company has taken reasonable steps to ensure that its accounting controls and procedures are sufficient to cause the Company to comply in all material respects with the FCPA.

 

(ee) Accountants. To the knowledge and belief of the Company, the Company Auditor (i) is an independent registered public accounting firm as required by the Exchange Act and (ii) shall express its opinion with respect to the financial statements to be included in the Company’s Annual Report for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2020 and 2019.

 

(ff) Equity Incentive Awards. Each equity incentive award granted by the Company under the Company’s equity incentive plans was granted (i) in accordance with the terms of such plan and (ii) any option was granted with an exercise price at least equal to the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date such stock option would be considered granted under GAAP and applicable law. No stock option granted under any Company stock option plan has been backdated. The Company has not knowingly granted, and there is no and has been no Company policy or practice to knowingly grant, stock options prior to, or otherwise knowingly coordinate the grant of stock options with, the release or other public announcement of material information regarding the Company or its Subsidiaries or their financial results or prospects.

 

(gg) Office of Foreign Assets Control. Neither the Company nor any Subsidiary nor, to the Company’s knowledge, any director, officer, agent, employee or affiliate of the Company or any Subsidiary is currently subject to any U.S. sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Treasury Department.

 

(hh) U.S. Real Property Holding Corporation. The Company is not and has never been a U.S. real property holding corporation within the meaning of Section 897 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the Company shall so certify upon the Representative’s request.

 

(ii) Bank Holding Company Act. Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates is subject to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the “BHCA”) and to regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve”). Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates owns or controls, directly or indirectly, five percent (5%) or more of the outstanding shares of any class of voting securities or twenty-five percent (25%) or more of the total equity of a bank or any entity that is subject to the BHCA and to regulation by the Federal Reserve. Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates exercises a controlling influence over the management or policies of a bank or any entity that is subject to the BHCA and to regulation by the Federal Reserve.

 

(jj) Money Laundering. The operations of the Company and its Subsidiaries are and have been conducted at all times in compliance with applicable financial record-keeping and reporting requirements of the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act of 1970, as amended, applicable money laundering statutes and applicable rules and regulations thereunder (collectively, the “Money Laundering Laws”), and no action, suit or proceeding by or before any court or governmental agency, authority or body or any arbitrator involving the Company or any Subsidiary with respect to the Money Laundering Laws is pending or, to the knowledge of the Company or any Subsidiary, threatened.

 

(kk) D&O Questionnaires. To the Company’s knowledge, all information contained in the questionnaires most recently completed by each of the Company’s directors and officers is true and correct in all respects and the Company has not become aware of any information which would cause the information disclosed in such questionnaires become inaccurate and incorrect.

 

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(ll) FINRA Affiliation. No officer, director or, to the Company’s knowledge, any beneficial owner of 5% or more of the Company’s outstanding shares of Common Stock or Common Stock Equivalents has any direct or indirect affiliation or association with any FINRA member (as determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of FINRA) that is participating in the Offering. Except for securities purchased on the open market, no Company Affiliate is an owner of stock or other securities of any member of FINRA. No Company Affiliate has made a subordinated loan to any member of FINRA. No proceeds from the sale of the Securities (excluding underwriting compensation as disclosed in the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus) will be paid to any FINRA member, any persons associated with a FINRA member or an affiliate of a FINRA member. Other than the 392,700 shares (on a pre-split basis) of Common Stock issued to the Representative pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, the Company has not issued any warrants or other securities or granted any options, directly or indirectly, to the Representative or any of the Underwriters named on Schedule I hereto within the 180-day period prior to the commencement of sales of the Securities in connection with the Offering. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus, and except securities sold by the Representative on behalf of the Company and the shares of Common Stock issued to the Representative pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, no person to whom securities of the Company have been privately issued within the 180-day period prior to the commencement of the sales of the Securities in connection with the Offering is a FINRA member, is a person associated with a FINRA member or is an affiliate of a FINRA member. To the Company’s knowledge, no FINRA member participating in the Offering has a conflict of interest with the Company. For this purpose, a “conflict of interest” exists when a FINRA member, the parent or affiliate of a FINRA member or any person associated with a FINRA member in the aggregate beneficially own 5% or more of the Company’s outstanding subordinated debt or common equity, or 5% or more of the Company’s preferred equity. “FINRA member participating in the Offering” includes any associated person of a FINRA member that is participating in the Offering, any member of such associated person’s immediate family and any affiliate of a FINRA member that is participating in the Offering. “Any person associated with a FINRA member” means (1) a natural person who is registered or has applied for registration under the rules of FINRA and (2) a sole proprietor, partner, officer, director, or branch manager of a FINRA member, or other natural person occupying a similar status or performing similar functions, or a natural person engaged in the investment banking or securities business who is directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by a FINRA member. When used in this Section 3.1(ll) the term “affiliate of a FINRA member” or “affiliated with a FINRA member” means an entity that controls, is controlled by or is under common control with a FINRA member. The Company will advise the Representative and DW if it learns that any officer, director or owner of 5% or more of the Company’s outstanding shares of Common Stock or Common Stock Equivalents is or becomes an affiliate or associated person of a FINRA member firm.

 

(mm) Officers’ Certificate. Any certificate signed by any duly authorized officer of the Company and delivered to the Representative or DW shall be deemed a representation and warranty by the Company to the Underwriters as to the matters covered thereby.

 

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(nn) Board of Directors. The qualifications of the persons serving as board members and the overall composition of the Board of Directors comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules promulgated thereunder applicable to the Company and the rules of the Trading Market. At least one member of the Board of Directors qualifies as a “financial expert” as such term is defined under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules promulgated thereunder and the rules of the Trading Market. In addition, at least a majority of the persons serving on the Board of Directors qualify as “independent” as defined under the rules of the Trading Market.

 

(oo) ERISA. The Company is not a party to an “employee benefit plan, “as defined in Section 3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), which: (i) is subject to any provision of ERISA and (ii) is or was at any time maintained, administered or contributed to by the Company or any of its ERISA Affiliates (as defined hereafter). These plans are referred to collectively herein as the “Employee Plans.” An “ERISA Affiliate” of any person or entity means any other person or entity which, together with that person or entity, could be treated as a single employer under Section 414(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Each Employee Plan has been maintained in material compliance with its terms and the requirements of applicable law. No Employee Plan is subject to Title IV of ERISA. The SEC Reports, Preliminary Prospectus, Registration Statement and the Prospectus identify each employment, severance or other similar agreement, arrangement or policy and each material plan or arrangement required to be disclosed pursuant to the Rules and Regulations providing for insurance coverage (including any self-insured arrangements), workers’ compensation, disability benefits, severance benefits, supplemental unemployment benefits, vacation benefits or retirement benefits, or deferred compensation, profit-sharing, bonuses, stock options, stock appreciation rights or other forms of incentive compensation, or post-retirement insurance, compensation or benefits, which: (i) is not an Employee Plan; (ii) is entered into, maintained or contributed to, as the case may be, by the Company or any of its ERISA Affiliates; and (iii) covers any officer or director or former officer or director of the Company or any of its ERISA Affiliates. These agreements, arrangements, policies or plans are referred to collectively as “Benefit Arrangements”. Each Benefit Arrangement has been maintained in material compliance with its terms and with the requirements of applicable law. Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus, there is no liability in respect of post-retirement health and medical benefits for retired employees of the Company or any of its ERISA Affiliates, other than medical benefits required to be continued under applicable law. No “prohibited transaction”(as defined in either Section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the Code) has occurred with respect to any Employee Plan; and each Employee Plan that is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code is so qualified, and nothing has occurred, whether by action or by failure to act, which could cause the loss of such qualification.

 

Article IV.

OTHER AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES

 

4.1 Amendments to Registration Statement. The Company has delivered, or will as promptly as practicable deliver, to the Underwriters complete conformed copies of the Registration Statement and of each consent and certificate of experts, as applicable, filed as a part thereof, and conformed copies of the Registration Statement (without exhibits), the Prospectus, as amended or supplemented, and the General Disclosure Package in such quantities and at such places as an Underwriter reasonably requests. Neither the Company nor any of its directors and officers has distributed and none of them will distribute, prior to the Closing Date, any offering material in connection with the offering and sale of the Securities other than the Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package and the Registration Statement. The Company shall not file any such amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement which the Representative shall reasonably object in writing, unless required by applicable securities law.

 

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4.2 Federal Securities Laws.

 

(a) Compliance. During the times when the Registration Statement, Preliminary Prospectus, Prospectus and General Disclosure Package is required to be delivered under the Securities Act, the Company will use its best efforts to comply with all requirements imposed upon it by the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder and the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, as from time to time in force, so far as necessary to permit the continuance of sales of or dealings in the Securities in accordance with the provisions hereof and the Registration Statement and the Prospectus. If at any time when the Registration Statement Preliminary Prospectus, Prospectus and the General Disclosure Package relating to the Securities is required to be delivered under the Securities Act, any event shall have occurred as a result of which, in the opinion of counsel for the Company or counsel for the Underwriters, the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, as then amended or supplemented, includes an untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state any 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, or if it is necessary at any time to amend the Registration Statement or Prospectus to comply with the Securities Act, the Company will notify the Underwriters promptly and prepare and file with the Commission, subject to Section 4.1 hereof, an appropriate amendment or supplement in accordance with Section 10 of the Securities Act.

 

(b) Exchange Act Registration. For a period of twenty-four (24) months from the Execution Date, the Company will use its best efforts to maintain the registration of the Common Stock under the Exchange Act. The Company will not deregister the Common Stock under the Exchange Act without the prior written consent of the Representative, which will not be unreasonably withheld.

 

4.3 Delivery to the Underwriters of Prospectuses. The Company will deliver to the Underwriters, without charge, from time to time during the period when the Registration Statement, the Prospectus and the General Disclosure Package is required to be delivered under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act such number of copies of each Registration Statement, Prospectus and General Disclosure Package as the Underwriters may reasonably request as soon as the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement thereto is declared effective by the Commission.

 

4.4 Effectiveness and Events Requiring Notice to the Underwriters. The Company will use its best efforts to cause the Registration Statement to remain effective with a current prospectus until the later of nine (9) months from the Execution Date and the date on which none of the Underwriter’s Warrants remain outstanding, and will notify the Underwriters and the holders of Underwriter’s Warrants immediately and confirm the notice in writing: (i) the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any amendment thereto; (ii) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order or of the initiation, or the threatening, of any proceeding for that purpose; (iii) of the issuance by any state securities commission of any proceedings for the suspension of the qualification of the Securities for offering or sale in any jurisdiction or of the initiation, or the threatening, of any proceeding for that purpose; (iv) of the mailing and delivery to the Commission for filing of any amendment or supplement to the Registration Statement or Prospectus; (v) of the receipt of any comments or request for any additional information from the Commission; and (vi) of the happening of any event during the period described in this Section 4.4 that, in the judgment of the Company, makes any statement of a material fact made in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus untrue or that requires the making of any changes in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. If the Commission or any state securities commission shall enter a stop order or suspend such qualification at any time, the Company will make every reasonable effort to obtain promptly the lifting of such order.

 

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4.5 Review of Financial Statements. For a period of three (3) years from the Execution Date, the Company, at its expense, shall cause its regularly engaged independent registered public accountants to review (but not audit) the Company’s financial statements for each of the first three fiscal quarters prior to the announcement of quarterly financial information.

 

4.6 Reports to the Underwriters; Expenses of the Offering.

 

(a) Periodic Reports, etc. For a period of twenty-four (24) months from the Execution Date, the Company will furnish or make available to the Underwriters copies of such financial statements and other periodic and special reports as the Company from time to time furnishes generally to holders of any class of its securities and also promptly furnish or make available to the Underwriters: (i) a copy of each periodic report the Company shall be required to file with the Commission; (ii) a copy of every press release and every news item and article with respect to the Company or its affairs which was released by the Company; (iii) a copy of each Form 8-K prepared and filed by the Company; and (iv) a copy of each registration statement filed by the Company under the Securities Act;. Documents filed with the Commission pursuant to its EDGAR system shall be deemed to have been delivered to the Underwriters pursuant to this Section 4.6.

 

(b) Transfer Sheets. For a period of three (3) years from the Execution Date, the Company shall retain the Transfer Agent or a transfer and registrar agent reasonably acceptable to the Representative and will furnish to the Underwriters at the Company’s sole cost and expense such transfer sheets of the Company’s securities as an Underwriter may reasonably request, including the daily and monthly consolidated transfer sheets of the Transfer Agent and the DTC.

 

(c) Trading Reports. During such time as the Closing Shares and the Option Shares, if applicable, are listed on the Trading Market, the Company shall provide to the Underwriters, at the Company’s expense, such reports published by the Trading Market relating to price and trading of such securities, as the Underwriters shall reasonably request.

 

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(d) General Expenses Related to the Offering. The Company hereby agrees to pay on each of the Closing Date and each Option Closing Date, if any, to the extent not paid at the Closing Date, all expenses incident to the performance of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement, including, but not limited to: (a) all filing fees and communication expenses relating to the registration of the Securities to be sold in the Offering (including the Option Shares) with the Commission; (b) all FINRA Public Offering Filing System fees associated with the review of the Offering by FINRA; all fees and expenses relating to the listing of such Closing Shares and Option Shares on the Trading Market and such other stock exchanges as the Company and the Representative together determine; (c) all fees, expenses and disbursements relating to the registration or qualification of the Securities under the “blue sky” securities laws of such states and other foreign jurisdictions as the Representative may reasonably designate (including, without limitation, all filing and registration fees, and the reasonable fees and disbursements of the Company’s “blue sky” counsel, which will be the Representative’s counsel), it being understood that no such fees, expenses or disbursements shall be payable so long as the Common Stock continues to be listed on a Trading Market; (d) all fees, expenses and disbursements relating to the registration, qualification or exemption of the Securities under the securities laws of such foreign jurisdictions to which the Company shall have consented in writing; (e) the costs of all mailing and printing of the underwriting documents relating to the Offering (including, without limitation, the Underwriting Agreement, any Blue Sky Surveys Registration Statements, Prospectuses and all amendments, supplements and exhibits thereto and as many preliminary and final Prospectuses as the Representative may reasonably deem necessary; (e) the costs of preparing, printing and delivering the Securities; (f) fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent for the Securities (including, without limitation, any fees required for same-day processing of any instruction letter delivered by the Company); (g) stock transfer and/or stamp taxes, if any, payable upon the transfer of securities from the Company to the Underwriters; (h) the fees and expenses of the Company’s accountants; (i) necessary, reasonable and documented out-of-pocket fees and expenses of the Underwriters, including “road show”, diligence, and reasonable legal fees and disbursements for the Representative’s counsel in connection with the Offering in a maximum amount of $35,000; (j) the Underwriters’ costs of mailing prospectuses to prospective investors in connection with the Offering; and (k) other miscellaneous marketing costs for the Offering. For the sake of clarity, it is understood and agreed that the Company shall be responsible for the Underwriters’ external counsel legal costs detailed in this Section 4.6(d), irrespective of whether the Offering is consummated or not, subject to a maximum of $35,000 in the event there is not a Closing. Also, if a Closing occurs, one percent (1%) of the gross proceeds of the Offering shall be provided to the Representative for non-accountable expenses. The Representative may deduct from the net proceeds of the Offering payable to the Company on the date of the Closing, or the date of the closing of the Over-Allotment Option, if any, the expenses set forth herein to be paid by the Company to the Underwriters; provided, however, that all costs and expenses pursuant to this Section 4.6(d) that are incurred by the Underwriters in connection with the Offering and for which the Company shall be responsible, other than the fees and expenses described in clause (k) above, shall be evidenced by documentation reasonably satisfactory to the Company and shall not exceed $35,000, in the aggregate, in the event of a Closing of the Offering.

 

4.7 Application of Net Proceeds. The Company will apply the net proceeds from the Offering received by it in a manner consistent with the application described under the caption “Use of Proceeds” in the Prospectus.

 

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4.8 Delivery of Earnings Statements to Security Holders. The Company will make generally available to its security holders as soon as practicable, but not later than the first day of the fifteenth full calendar month following the Execution Date, an earnings statement (which need not be certified by independent public or independent certified public accountants unless required by the Securities Act or the rules and regulations under the Securities Act, but which shall satisfy the provisions of Rule 158(a) under Section 11(a) of the Securities Act) covering a period of at least twelve consecutive months beginning after the Execution Date. For the avoidance of doubt, documents filed with the Commission pursuant to its EDGAR system that contain the earnings statements required by this Section 4.8 shall be deemed to have been delivered to security holders and satisfy the requirements of this Section 4.8.

 

4.9 Stabilization. Neither the Company, nor, to its knowledge, any of its employees, directors or shareholders (without the consent of the Representative) has taken or will take, directly or indirectly, any action designed to or that has constituted or that might reasonably be expected to cause or result in, under the Exchange Act, or otherwise, stabilization or manipulation of the price of any security of the Company to facilitate the sale or resale of the Securities.

 

4.10 Internal Controls. As disclosed in the SEC Reports, the Company intends to make changes necessary to enable it to maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that: (i) transactions are executed in accordance with management’s general or specific authorization; (ii) transactions are recorded as necessary in order to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP and to maintain accountability for assets; (iii) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management’s general or specific authorization; and (iv) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences.

 

4.11 Accountants. For a period of three (3) years from the Execution Date, the Company shall continue to retain an independent registered public accounting firm. The Underwriters acknowledge that the Company Auditor is acceptable to the Underwriters.

 

4.12 FINRA. The Company shall advise the Underwriters (who shall make an appropriate filing with FINRA) if it is aware that any officer, director, 5% or greater shareholder of the Company or Person that received the Company’s unregistered equity securities in the past 180 days is or becomes an affiliate or associated person of a FINRA member firm prior to the earlier of the termination of this Agreement or the conclusion of the distribution of the Offering.

 

4.13 No Fiduciary Duties. The Company acknowledges and agrees that the Underwriters’ responsibility to the Company is solely contractual and commercial in nature, based on arms-length negotiations and that neither the Underwriters nor their affiliates or any selected dealer shall be deemed to be acting in a fiduciary capacity, or otherwise owes any fiduciary duty to the Company or any of its affiliates in connection with the Offering and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the Company acknowledges that the Underwriters may have financial interests in the success of the Offering that are not limited to the difference between the price to the public and the purchase price paid to the Company by the Underwriters for the shares and the Underwriters have no obligation to disclose, or account to the Company for, any of such additional financial interests. The Company hereby waives and releases, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any claims that the Company may have against the Underwriters with respect to any breach or alleged breach of fiduciary duty.

 

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4.14 Intentionally Left Blank.

 

4.15 Board Composition and Board Designations. The Company shall ensure that: (i) the qualifications of the persons serving as board members and the overall composition of the Board of Directors comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules promulgated thereunder and with the listing requirements of the Trading Market and (ii) if applicable, at least one member of the Board of Directors qualifies as a “financial expert” as such term is defined under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules promulgated thereunder.

 

4.16 Securities Laws Disclosure; Publicity. At the request of the Representative, by 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the Execution Date, or, if this Agreement is executed after 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) by the time reasonably requested by the Representative, the Company shall issue a press release disclosing the material terms of the Offering. The Company and the Representative shall consult with each other in issuing any press releases with respect to the Offering, and neither the Company nor any Underwriter shall issue any such press release nor otherwise make any such public statement without the prior consent of the Company, with respect to any other press release of such Underwriter, or without the prior consent of such Underwriter, with respect to any press release of the Company, which consent shall not unreasonably be withheld or delayed, except if such disclosure is required by law, in which case the disclosing party shall promptly provide the other party with prior notice of such public statement or communication. The Company will not issue press releases or engage in any other publicity, without the Representative’s prior written consent, for a period ending at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on the first business day following the 40th day following the Closing Date, other than normal and customary releases issued in the ordinary course of the Company’s business.

 

4.17 Shareholder Rights Plan. No claim will be made or enforced by the Company or, with the consent of the Company, any other Person, that any Underwriter is an “Acquiring Person” under any control share acquisition, business combination, poison pill (including any distribution under a rights agreement) or similar anti-takeover plan or arrangement in effect or hereafter adopted by the Company, or that any Underwriter of Securities could be deemed to trigger the provisions of any such plan or arrangement, by virtue of receiving Securities except if and to the extent required by applicable law.

 

4.18 Reservation of Common Stock. As of the Execution Date, the Company has reserved and the Company shall continue to reserve and keep available at all times, free of preemptive rights, a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock for the purpose of enabling the Company to issue the Option Shares pursuant to the Over-Allotment Option, and pursuant to any exercise of the Underwriter’s Warrant Shares pursuant to any exercise of the Underwriter’s Warrants.

 

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4.19 Listing of Common Stock. The Common Stock has been approved for trading on the Trading Market. The Company agrees to use its best efforts to effect and maintain the trading of the Common Stock on the Trading Market for at least three (3) years after the Closing Date.

 

4.20 Right of First Refusal. Following the Closing, provided that the Closing Shares are sold in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, the Representative shall have an irrevocable right of first refusal (the “Right of First Refusal”), for a period of twelve (12) months after the Closing (the “Right of First Refusal Period”), to act as sole investment banker, sole book-runner, and/or sole placement agent, at the Representative’s sole discretion, for each and every future public and private equity and debt offering, including all equity linked financings (each, a “Subject Transaction”), during such Right of Refusal Period, of the Company or any Subsidiary, or any successor to the Company or any Subsidiary, on terms and conditions to be negotiated by the Representative and the Company for such Subject Transactions, upon the same terms proposed by a third party. Such Right of First Refusal shall be accepted or waived by the Representative, in writing, within thirty (30) days after the date the Company provides written notice to the Representative of a proposed Subject Transaction. The Representative shall have the sole right to determine whether or not any other underwriter or placement agent shall have the right to participate in a Subject Transaction and the economic terms of such participation. For the avoidance of doubt, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary shall retain, engage or solicit any other investment banker, book-runner, financial advisor, underwriter and/or placement agent, in connection with a Subject Transaction, without the prior written consent of the Representative.

 

4.21 Intentionally Left Blank.

 

4.22 Capital Changes. Until nine (9) months after the Closing Date, the Company shall not undertake a reverse or forward stock split or reclassification of the Common Stock without the prior written consent of the Representative, which shall not be unreasonably withheld if such stock split or reclassification is for purposes of maintaining the listing of the Company’s Common Stock on Nasdaq.

 

4.23 Research Independence. The Company acknowledges that each Underwriter’s research analysts and research departments, if any, are required to be independent from their respective investment banking divisions and are subject to certain regulations and internal policies, and that such Underwriter’s research analysts may hold and make statements or investment recommendations and/or publish research reports with respect to the Company and/or the offering that differ from the views of its investment bankers. The Company hereby waives and releases, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any claims that the Company may have against such Underwriter with respect to any conflict of interest that may arise from the fact that the views expressed by their independent research analysts and research departments may be different from or inconsistent with the views or advice communicated to the Company by such Underwriter’s investment banking divisions. The Company acknowledges that each Representative is a full service securities firm and as such from time to time, subject to applicable securities laws, may effect transactions for its own account or the account of its customers and hold long or short position in debt or equity securities of the Company.

 

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Article V.

DEFAULT BY REPRESENTATIVE

 

If on the Closing Date or any Option Closing Date, if any, any Underwriter shall fail to purchase and pay for the portion of the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, which such Underwriter has agreed to purchase and pay for on such date (otherwise than by reason of any default on the part of the Company), the Representative, or if a Representative is the defaulting Underwriter, the non-defaulting Underwriters, shall use their reasonable efforts to procure within 36 hours thereafter one or more of the other Underwriters, or any others, to purchase from the Company such amounts as may be agreed upon and upon the terms set forth herein, the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, which the defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters failed to purchase. If during such 36 hours the Representative shall not have procured such other Underwriters, or any others, to purchase the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, agreed to be purchased by the defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters, then (a) if the aggregate number of Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, with respect to which such default shall occur does not exceed 10% of the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, covered hereby, the other Underwriters shall be obligated, severally, in proportion to the respective numbers of Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, which they are obligated to purchase hereunder, to purchase the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, which such defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters failed to purchase, or (b) if the aggregate number of Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, with respect to which such default shall occur exceeds 10% of the Closing Shares or Option Shares, as the case may be, covered hereby, the Company or the Representative will have the right to terminate this Agreement without liability on the part of the non-defaulting Underwriters or of the Company except to the extent provided in Article VI hereof. In the event of a default by any Underwriter or Underwriters, as set forth in this Article V, the applicable Closing Date may be postponed for such period, not exceeding seven days, as the Representative, or if a Representative is the defaulting Underwriter, the non-defaulting Underwriters, may determine in order that the required changes in the Prospectus or in any other documents or arrangements may be effected. The term “Underwriter” includes any person substituted for a defaulting Underwriter. Any action taken under this Section shall not relieve any defaulting Underwriter from liability in respect of any default of such Underwriter under this Agreement.

 

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Article VI.

INDEMNIFICATION AND CONTRIBUTION

 

6.1 Indemnification of the Underwriters. The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter, its affiliates, the directors, officers, employees and agents of such Underwriter and each person, if any, who controls such Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act from and against any and all losses, claims, liabilities, expenses and damages (including any and all investigative, legal and other expenses reasonably incurred in connection with, and any amount paid in settlement of, any action, suit or proceeding between any of the indemnified parties and any indemnifying parties or between any indemnified party and any third party, or otherwise, or any claim asserted), to which they, or any of them, may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or other federal or state statutory law or regulation, at common law or otherwise, insofar as such losses, claims, liabilities, expenses or damages arise out of or are based on (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement (or any amendment thereto), including the information deemed to be a part of the Registration Statement at the time of effectiveness and at any subsequent time pursuant to Rules 430A and 430B of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, as applicable, or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or (ii) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any preliminary prospectus, any preliminary prospectus supplement, any Permitted Free Writing Prospectus or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement to any of the foregoing) or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading or (iii) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any materials or information provided to investors by, or with the approval of, the Company in connection with the marketing of the offering of the Securities, including any roadshow or investor presentations made to investors by the Company (whether in person or electronically) (collectively, Marketing Materials “) or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading; provided , however , that the Company shall not be liable to the extent that such loss, claim, liability, expense or damage is based on any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in reliance on and in conformity with Underwriters’ Information. This indemnity agreement will be in addition to any liability that the Company might otherwise have. For all purposes of this Agreement, the information set forth in the Prospectus in the “Price Stabilization, and “Electronic Prospectus” sections under the caption “Underwriting” constitutes the only information (the “Underwriters’ Information”) relating to the Underwriters furnished in writing to the Company by the Underwriters through the Representative specifically for inclusion in the preliminary prospectus, the Registration Statement or the Prospectus. With respect to any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in the General Disclosure Package, the indemnity agreements contained in this Section 6.1 shall not inure to the benefit of any Underwriter Indemnified Party to the extent that any loss, liability, claim, damage or expense of such Underwriter Indemnified Party results from the fact that a copy of the Prospectus was not given or sent to the person asserting any such loss, liability, claim, damage at or prior to written confirmation of sale of the Public Securities to such person as required by the Securities Act, and if the untrue statement or omission had been corrected in the Prospectus, unless the failure to deliver the Prospectus was a result of non-compliance by the Company with its obligations under Section 4.3 hereof.

 

6.2 Indemnification of the Company. Each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its affiliates, the directors, officers, employees and agents of the Company and each other person or entity, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act, against any losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses whatsoever, as incurred (including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees and any and all reasonable expenses whatsoever, incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever, and any and all amounts paid in settlement of any claim or litigation), joint or several, to which they or any of them may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act or otherwise, insofar as such losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon an untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement at the time of effectiveness and at any subsequent time pursuant to Rules 430A and 430B of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, any Preliminary Prospectus, the Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement to any of them, or arise out of or are based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, in each case to the extent, but only to the extent, that any such loss, liability, claim, damage or expense (or action in respect thereof) arises out of or is based upon any such untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission made therein in reliance upon the Underwriters’ Information; provided, however, that in no case shall any Underwriter be liable or responsible for any amount in excess of the underwriting discount and commissions applicable to the Securities purchased by such Underwriter hereunder.

 

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6.3 Indemnification Procedures. Any party hereto that proposes to assert the right to be indemnified under this Section 6 shall, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action against such party in respect of which a claim is to be made against an indemnifying party or parties under this Section 6, notify each such indemnifying party of the commencement of such action, enclosing a copy of all papers served, but the omission so to notify such indemnifying party shall not relieve the indemnifying party from any liability that it may have to any indemnified party under the foregoing provisions of this Section 6 unless, and only to the extent that, such omission results in the forfeiture of substantive rights or defenses by the indemnifying party. If any such action is brought against any indemnified party and it notifies the indemnifying party of its commencement, the indemnifying party will be entitled to participate in and, to the extent that it elects by delivering written notice to the indemnified party promptly after receiving notice of the commencement of the action from the indemnified party, jointly with any other indemnifying party similarly notified, to assume the defense of the action, with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party, and after notice from the indemnifying party to the indemnified party of its election to assume the defense, the indemnifying party will not be liable to the indemnified party for any legal or other expenses except as provided below and except for the reasonable out-of-pocket costs of investigation subsequently incurred by the indemnified party in connection with the defense. The indemnified party will have the right to employ its own counsel in any such action, but the fees, expenses and other charges of such counsel will be at the expense of such indemnified party unless (i) the employment of counsel by the indemnified party has been authorized in writing by one of the indemnifying parties in connection with the defense of such action, (ii) the indemnified party has reasonably concluded (based on advice of counsel) that there may be legal defenses available to it or other indemnified parties that are different from or in addition to those available to the indemnifying party, (iii) the indemnified party has reasonably concluded that a conflict or potential conflict exists (based on advice of counsel to the indemnified party) between the indemnified party and the indemnifying party (in which case the indemnifying party shall not have the right to direct the defense of such action on behalf of the indemnified party), (iv) the indemnifying party does not diligently defend the action after assumption of the defense, or (v) the indemnifying party has not in fact employed counsel reasonably satisfactory to the indemnified party to assume the defense of such action within a reasonable time after receiving notice of the commencement of the action, in each of which cases the reasonable fees, disbursements and other charges of counsel shall be at the expense of the indemnifying party or parties. It is understood that the indemnifying party or parties shall not, in connection with any proceeding or related proceedings in the same jurisdiction, be liable for the reasonable fees, disbursements and other charges of more than one separate firm admitted to practice in such jurisdiction at any one time for all such indemnified party or parties. All such fees, disbursements and other charges shall be reimbursed by the indemnifying party promptly as they are incurred. An indemnifying party shall not be liable for any settlement of any action or claim effected without its written consent (which consent will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed). No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of each indemnified party, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment in any pending or threatened claim, action or proceeding relating to the matters contemplated by this Section 6 (whether or not any indemnified party is a party thereto), unless (x) such settlement, compromise or consent (i) includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising or that may arise out of such claim, action or proceeding and (ii) does not include a statement as to or an admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of any indemnified party, and (y) the indemnifying party confirms in writing its indemnification obligations hereunder with respect to such settlement, compromise or judgment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time an indemnified party shall have requested an indemnifying party to reimburse the indemnified party for fees and expenses of counsel, such indemnifying party agrees that it shall be liable for any settlement of the nature contemplated by Section 6(a) effected without its written consent if (A) such settlement is entered into more than 45 days after receipt by such indemnifying party of the aforesaid request, (B) such indemnifying party shall have received notice of the terms of such settlement at least 30 days prior to such settlement being entered into and (iii) such indemnifying party shall not have reimbursed such indemnified party in accordance with such request prior to the date of such settlement.

 

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6.4 Contribution. In order to provide for just and equitable contribution in circumstances in which the indemnification provided for in the foregoing paragraphs of this Section 6 is applicable in accordance with its terms but for any reason is held to be unavailable, the Company and the Underwriters shall contribute to the total losses, claims, liabilities, expenses and damages (including any investigative, legal and other expenses reasonably incurred in connection with, and any amount paid in settlement of, any action, suit or proceeding or any claim asserted, but after deducting any contribution received by the Company from persons other than the Underwriters, such as persons who control the Company within the meaning of the Securities Act, officers of the Company who signed the Registration Statement and directors of the Company, who may also be liable for contribution), to which the Company and the Underwriter may be subject in such proportion as shall be appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Company on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other from the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement. The relative benefits received by the Company and the Underwriters shall be deemed to be in the same proportion as (x) the total proceeds from the Offering (net of underwriting discount and commissions but before deducting expenses) received by the Company bears to (y) the underwriting discount and commissions received by the Underwriters, in each case as set forth in the table on the cover page of the Prospectus. If, but only if, the allocation provided by the foregoing sentence is not permitted by applicable law, the allocation of contribution shall be made in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in the foregoing sentence but also the relative fault of the Company, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other, with respect to the statements or omissions which resulted in such loss, claim, liability, expense or damage, or action in respect thereof, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations with respect to such offering. Such relative fault shall be determined by reference to whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by the Company or the Underwriters, the intent of the parties and their relative knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission. The Company and the Underwriters agree that it would not be just and equitable if contributions pursuant to this Section 6.4 were to be determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation (even if the Underwriters were treated as one entity for such purpose) which does not take into account the equitable considerations referred to herein. The amount paid or payable by an indemnified party as a result of the loss, claim, liability, expense or damage, or action in respect thereof, referred to above in this Section 6.4 shall be deemed to include, for purpose of this Section 6.4, any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in connection with investigating or defending any such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 6.4, no Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the underwriting discounts and commissions received by it. No person found guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. For purposes of this Section 6.4, any person who controls a party to this Agreement within the meaning of the Securities Act will have the same rights to contribution as that party, and each officer of the Company who signed the Registration Statement will have the same rights to contribution as the Company, and each director, officer, employee, counsel or agent of an Underwriter will have the same rights to contribution as such Underwriter, subject in each case to the provisions hereof. Any party entitled to contribution, promptly after receipt of notice of commencement of any action against such party in respect of which a claim for contribution may be made under this Section 6.4, will notify any such party or parties from whom contribution may be sought, but the omission so to notify will not relieve the party or parties from whom contribution may be sought from any other obligation it or they may have under this Section 6.4. The obligations of the Underwriters to contribute pursuant to this Section 6.4 are several in proportion to the respective number of Shares to be purchased by each of the Underwriters hereunder and not joint. No party will be liable for contribution with respect to any action or claim settled without its written consent (which consent will not be unreasonably withheld).

 

6.5 Survival. The indemnity and contribution agreements contained in this Section 6 and the representations and warranties of the Company contained in this Agreement shall remain operative and in full force and effect regardless of (i) any investigation made by or on behalf of any Underwriter or any controlling Person thereof, (ii) acceptance of any of the Securities and payment therefor or (iii) any termination of this Agreement.

 

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Article VII.
MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1 Termination.

 

(a) Termination Right. This Agreement shall terminate at the end of the Engagement Period. In addition, the Representative shall have the right to terminate this Agreement at any time prior to any Closing Date (i) if any domestic or international event, act or occurrence has materially disrupted, or in their reasonable opinion will in the immediate future materially disrupt, general securities markets in the United States, including, but not limited to any event, act or occurrence relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; (ii) if trading on any Trading Market shall have been suspended or materially limited, or minimum or maximum prices for trading shall have been fixed, or maximum ranges for prices for securities shall have been required by FINRA or by order of the Commission or any other government authority having jurisdiction; (iii) if the United States shall have become involved in a new war or an increase in major hostilities, which will, in the Representative’s reasonable opinion, make it inadvisable to proceed with the delivery of any Securities; (iv) if a banking moratorium has been declared by a New York State or federal authority; (v) if a moratorium on foreign exchange trading has been declared which materially adversely impacts the United States securities markets; (vi) if the Company shall have sustained a material loss by fire, flood, accident, hurricane, earthquake, theft, sabotage or other calamity or malicious act which, whether or not such loss shall have been insured, will, in the Representative’s opinion, make it inadvisable to proceed with the delivery of any Securities; (vii) if the Company is in material breach of any of its representations, warranties or covenants hereunder; or (viii) if the Representative shall have become aware after the Execution Date of such a material adverse change in the conditions or prospects of the Company, or such adverse material change in general market conditions as in the Representative’s judgment would make it impracticable to proceed with the offering, sale and/or delivery of any Securities or to enforce contracts made by the Underwriters for the sale of any Securities. The Company shall not have the right to terminate this Agreement other than for “Cause”. “Cause”, for the purpose of this Agreement, shall mean, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction, willful misconduct, gross negligence or a material breach of this Agreement by the Representative. In the event that the Company believes that the Representative has engaged in conduct constituting Cause, the Company must first notify the Representative in writing of the facts and circumstances supporting such an assertion(s), and the Representative shall have twenty (20) days to cure such alleged conduct.

 

(b) Expenses. In the event this Agreement shall be terminated pursuant to Section 7.1(a), within the time specified herein or any extensions thereof pursuant to the terms herein, the Company shall be obligated to pay to the Representative its actual and accountable out-of-pocket expenses related to the transactions contemplated herein then due and payable up to $50,000 (provided, however, that such expense cap in no way limits or impairs the indemnification and contribution provisions of this Agreement).

 

(c) Indemnification. Notwithstanding any contrary provision contained in this Agreement, any election hereunder or any termination of this Agreement, and whether or not this Agreement is otherwise carried out, the provisions of Article VI shall not be in any way effected by such election or termination or failure to carry out the terms of this Agreement or any part hereof.

 

7.2 Entire Agreement. The Transaction Documents, together with the exhibits and schedules thereto, the General Disclosure Package, any Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus, contain the entire understanding of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof and supersede all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, with respect to such matters, which the parties hereto acknowledge have been merged into such documents, exhibits and schedules. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Engagement and Advisory Agreement shall continue to be effective and the terms therein, including, without limitation, Sections 4(c) and 4(d), with respect to any advisory services provided by the Representative to the Company, shall continue to survive and be enforceable by the Representative in accordance with its terms, provided that, in the event of a conflict between the terms of the Engagement and Advisory Agreement and this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail.

 

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7.3 Notices. Any and all notices or other communications or deliveries required or permitted to be provided hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed given and effective on the earliest of: (a) the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via facsimile at the facsimile number or e-mail attachment at the email address set forth on the signature pages attached hereto at or prior to 5:30 p.m. (New York City time) on a Trading Day, (b) the next Trading Day after the date of transmission, if such notice or communication is delivered via facsimile at the facsimile number or e-mail attachment at the e-mail address as set forth on the signature pages attached hereto on a day that is not a Trading Day or later than 5:30 p.m. (New York City time) on any Trading Day, (c) the second (2nd) Trading Day following the date of mailing, if sent by U.S. nationally recognized overnight courier service or (d) upon actual receipt by the party to whom such notice is required to be given. The address for such notices and communications shall be as set forth on the signature pages attached hereto.

 

7.4 Amendments; Waivers. No provision of this Agreement may be waived, modified, supplemented or amended except in a written instrument signed, in the case of an amendment, by the Company and the Representative. No waiver of any default with respect to any provision, condition or requirement of this Agreement shall be deemed to be a continuing waiver in the future or a waiver of any subsequent default or a waiver of any other provision, condition or requirement hereof, nor shall any delay or omission of any party to exercise any right hereunder in any manner impair the exercise of any such right.

 

7.5 Headings. The headings herein are for convenience only, do not constitute a part of this Agreement and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof.

 

7.6 Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their successors and permitted assigns.

 

7.7 Governing Law. All questions concerning the construction, validity, enforcement and interpretation of the Transaction Documents shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York, without regard to the principles of conflicts of law thereof. Each party hereto agrees that all legal proceedings concerning the interpretations, enforcement and defense of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and any other Transaction Documents (whether brought against a party hereto or its respective affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, partners, members, employees or agents) shall be commenced exclusively in the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York. Each party hereto hereby irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan for the adjudication of any dispute hereunder or in connection herewith or with any transaction contemplated hereby or discussed herein (including with respect to the enforcement of any of the Transaction Documents), and hereby irrevocably waives, and agrees not to assert in any action, suit or proceeding, any claim that it is not personally subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, that such suit, action or proceeding is improper or is an inconvenient venue for such proceeding. Each party hereto hereby irrevocably waives personal service of process and consents to process being served in any such suit, action or proceeding by mailing a copy thereof via registered or certified mail or overnight delivery (with evidence of delivery) to such party at the address in effect for notices to it under this Agreement and agrees that such service shall constitute good and sufficient service of process and notice thereof. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to limit in any way any right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law. If either party hereto shall commence an action or proceeding to enforce any provisions of the Transaction Documents, then, in addition to the obligations of the Company under Article VI, the prevailing party in such action, suit or proceeding shall be reimbursed by the other party for its reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs and expenses incurred with the investigation, preparation and prosecution of such action or proceeding.

 

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7.8 Survival. The representations and warranties contained herein shall survive the Closing and the Option Closing, if any, and the delivery of the Securities.

 

7.9 Execution. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, all of which when taken together shall be considered one and the same agreement and shall become effective when counterparts have been signed by each party hereto and delivered to each other party hereto, it being understood that the parties hereto need not sign the same counterpart. In the event that any signature is delivered by facsimile transmission or by e-mail delivery of a “.pdf” format data file, such signature shall create a valid and binding obligation of the party executing (or on whose behalf such signature is executed) with the same force and effect as if such facsimile or “.pdf” signature page were an original thereof.

 

7.10 Severability. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, void or unenforceable, the remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions set forth herein shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated, and the parties hereto shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to find and employ an alternative means to achieve the same or substantially the same result as that contemplated by such term, provision, covenant or restriction. It is hereby stipulated and declared to be the intention of the parties hereto that they would have executed the remaining terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions without including any of such that may be hereafter declared invalid, illegal, void or unenforceable.

 

7.11 Remedies. In addition to being entitled to exercise all rights provided herein or granted by law, including recovery of damages, the Underwriters and the Company will be entitled to specific performance under the Transaction Documents. The parties hereto agree that monetary damages may not be adequate compensation for any loss incurred by reason of any breach of obligations contained in the Transaction Documents and hereby agree to waive and not to assert in any action for specific performance of any such obligation the defense that a remedy at law would be adequate.

 

7.12 Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, etc. If the last or appointed day for the taking of any action or the expiration of any right required or granted herein shall not be a Business Day, then such action may be taken or such right may be exercised on the next succeeding Business Day.

 

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7.13 Construction. The parties hereto agree that each of them and/or their respective counsel have reviewed and had an opportunity to revise the Transaction Documents and, therefore, the normal rule of construction to the effect that any ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of the Transaction Documents or any amendments thereto. In addition, each and every reference to share prices and shares of Common Stock in any Transaction Document shall be subject to adjustment for reverse and forward stock splits, stock dividends, stock combinations and other similar transactions of the Common Stock that occur after the date of this Agreement.

 

7.14 WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. IN ANY ACTION, SUIT, OR PROCEEDING IN ANY JURISDICTION BROUGHT BY ANY PARTY HERETO AGAINST ANY OTHER PARTY HERETO ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, THE PARTIES HERETO EACH KNOWINGLY AND INTENTIONALLY, TO THE GREATEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, HEREBY ABSOLUTELY, UNCONDITIONALLY, IRREVOCABLY AND EXPRESSLY WAIVE FOREVER ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY.

 

(Signature Pages Follow)

 

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If the foregoing correctly sets forth the understanding between the Underwriters and the Company, please so indicate in the space provided below for that purpose, whereupon this letter shall constitute a binding agreement among the Company and the several Underwriters in accordance with its terms.

 

Very truly yours,

 

 BLUE STAR FOODS CORP  
     
By:    
Name: John Keller  
Title: Chairman & CEO  

 

Address for Notice:  
   
3000 NW 109th Avenue  
Miami, FL 33172  
Email:                                           
   
Copies to:  
The Crone Law Group, P.C.  
500 Fifth Avenue, Suite 938  
New York, NY 10010  
Attention: Mark Crone, Esq.  
Email: mcrone@cronelawgroup.com  

 

Accepted by the Representative, acting for itself and as Representative of the Underwriters named on Schedule I hereto, as of the date first above written:  

 

NEWBRIDGE SECURITIES CORPORATION  
                       
By:    
Name:    
Title:    

 

Address for Notice:  
   

1200 North Federal Highway, Suite 400

Boca Raton, FL 33432venue, 39th Floor

 
Email:               

 

Copy to:  
   
Dickinson Wright PLLC  
350 E. Las Olas Blvd, Suite 1750  
Fort Lauderdale, FL 3301  
Attention: Joel D. Mayersohn, Esq.  
Email: jmayersohn@dickinsonwright.com  

 

39

 

 

Schedule I

 

Schedule of Underwriters

 

Underwriter    

Total Number

of Closing

Shares

to be

Purchased

     

Number of

Option Shares

to be

Purchased

if the Over-

Allotment

Option is Fully

Exercised

 
Newbridge Securities Corporation     -       -  
Revere Securities LLC     -       -  
                 
TOTAL     -       -  

 

Schedule-I

 

 

Schedule II

 

List of Lock-Up Parties

 

Officers and Directors

 

Schedule-II

 

 

Exhibit A

 

Form of Lock-Up Agreement

 

                        , 2021

 

Newbridge Securities Corporation
1200 North Federal Highway
Suite 400
Boca Raton, FL 33432

 

Re: Blue Star Foods Corp. - Public Offering

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

The undersigned, a holder of common stock, par value $0.001 per share (“Shares”), Blue Star Foods Corp (the “Company”), or rights to acquire shares of Common Stock, understands that you are the representative (the “Representative”) of the several underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters”) named or to be named in the final form of the underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) to be entered into among the Underwriters and the Company, providing for the public offering (the “Public Offering”) of the Securities pursuant to a registration statement filed or to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings set forth for them in the Underwriting Agreement.

 

In consideration of the Underwriters’ agreement to enter into the Underwriting Agreement and to proceed with the Public Offering of the Securities, and for other good and valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the undersigned hereby agrees, for the benefit of the Company, the Representative and the other Underwriters that, without the prior written consent of the Representative, the undersigned will not, during the period specified in the following paragraph (the “Lock-Up Period”), directly or indirectly, unless otherwise provided herein, (a) offer, sell, agree to offer or sell, solicit offers to purchase, grant any call option or purchase any put option with respect to, pledge, encumber, assign, borrow or otherwise dispose of (each a “Transfer”) any Relevant Security (as defined below) or otherwise publicly disclose the intention to do so, or (b) establish or increase any “put equivalent position” or liquidate or decrease any “call equivalent position” with respect to any Relevant Security (in each case within the meaning of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and the rules and regulations thereunder) with respect to any Relevant Security or otherwise enter into any swap, derivative or other transaction or arrangement that Transfers to another, in whole or in part, any economic consequence of ownership of a Relevant Security, whether or not such transaction is to be settled by the delivery of Relevant Securities, other securities, cash or other consideration, or otherwise publicly disclose the intention to do so. As used herein, the term “Relevant Security” means any Share, warrant to purchase Shares or any other security of the Company or any other entity that is convertible into, or exercisable or exchangeable for, Shares or any other equity security of the Company, in each case owned beneficially or otherwise by the undersigned on the date of closing of the Public Offering or acquired by the undersigned during the Lock-Up Period.

 

Exhibit A-1

 

 

The restrictions in the foregoing paragraph shall not apply to any exercise (including a cashless exercise or broker-assisted exercise and payment of tax obligations) of options or warrants to purchase Shares; provided that any Shares received upon such exercise, conversion or exchange will be subject to this Lock-Up Period. The Lock-Up Period will commence on the date of this Lock-up Agreement and continue and include the date that is one hundred eighty (180) days after the closing of the Public Offering.

 

In addition, the undersigned further agrees that, except for the registration statement filed or to be filed in connection with the Public Offering, during the Lock-Up Period the undersigned will not, without the prior written consent of the Representative: (a) file or participate in the filing with the Commission of any registration statement or circulate or participate in the circulation of any preliminary or final prospectus or other disclosure document, in each case with respect to any proposed offering or sale of a Relevant Security, or (b) exercise any rights the undersigned may have to require registration with the Commission of any proposed offering or sale of a Relevant Security.

 

In furtherance of the undersigned’s obligations hereunder, the undersigned hereby authorizes the Company during the Lock-Up Period to cause any transfer agent for the Relevant Securities to decline to transfer, and to note stop transfer restrictions on the stock register and other records relating to, Relevant Securities for which the undersigned is the record owner and the transfer of which would be a violation of this Lock-Up Agreement and, in the case of Relevant Securities for which the undersigned is the beneficial but not the record owner, agrees that during the Lock-Up Period it will cause the record owner to cause the relevant transfer agent to decline to transfer, and to note stop transfer restrictions on the stock register and other records relating to, such Relevant Securities to the extent such transfer would be a violation of this Lock-Up Agreement.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the undersigned may transfer the undersigned’s Relevant Securities:

 

(i) as a bona fide gift or gifts,

 

(ii) to any trust, partnership, limited liability company or other legal entity commonly used for estate planning purposes which is established for the direct or indirect benefit of the undersigned or a member of members of the immediate family of the undersigned,

 

(iii) if the undersigned is a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, trust or other business entity (1) to another corporation, partnership, limited liability company, trust or other business entity that is a direct or indirect affiliate (as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) of the undersigned, (2) to limited partners, limited liability company members or stockholders of the undersigned, or (3) in connection with a sale, merger or transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of the undersigned or any other change of control of the undersigned, not undertaken for the purpose of avoiding the restrictions imposed by this Lock-Up Agreement,

 

(iv) if the undersigned is a trust, to the beneficiary of such trust,

 

(v) by testate or intestate succession,

 

Exhibit A-2

 

 

(vi) by operation of law, such as pursuant to a qualified domestic order or in connection with a divorce settlement, or

 

(vii) pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement;

 

provided, in the case of clauses (i)-(vi), that (A) such transfer shall not involve a disposition for value, (B) the transferee agrees in writing with the Underwriters and the Company to be bound by the terms of this Lock-Up Agreement, and (C) such transfer would not require any filing under Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act and no such filing is voluntarily made.

 

In addition, the restrictions set forth herein shall not prevent the undersigned from entering into a sales plan pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 under the Exchange Act after the date hereof, provided that (i) a copy of such plan is provided to the Representative promptly upon entering into same and (ii) no sales or transfers may be made under such plan until the Lock-Up Period ends or this Agreement is terminated in accordance with its term.

 

For purposes of this Lock-Up Agreement, “immediate family” shall mean any relationship by blood, marriage or adoption, not more remote than first cousin.

 

The undersigned hereby represents and warrants that the undersigned has full power and authority to enter into this Lock-Up Agreement and that this Lock-Up Agreement has been duly authorized (if the undersigned is not a natural person) and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the undersigned, enforceable in accordance with its terms. Upon request, the undersigned will execute any additional documents necessary in connection with the enforcement hereof. Any obligations of the undersigned shall be binding upon the successors and assigns of the undersigned from the date of this Lock-Up Agreement.

 

The undersigned understands that, if the Underwriting Agreement does not become effective, or if the Underwriting Agreement (other than the provisions thereof which survive termination) shall terminate or be terminated prior to payment for and delivery of the Securities to be sold thereunder, the undersigned shall be released from all obligations under this Lock-Up Agreement.

 

The undersigned, whether or not participating in the Public Offering, understands that the Underwriters are entering into the Underwriting Agreement and proceeding with the Public Offering in reliance upon this Lock-Up Agreement.

 

This Lock-Up Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflict of laws principles thereof. Delivery of a signed copy of this Lock-Up Agreement by facsimile or e-mail/.pdf transmission shall be effective as the delivery of the original hereof.

 

  Very truly yours,
   
  Signature:  
  Name (Printed)
  Title (if applicable):
  Entity (if applicable):
  Entity (if applicable):

 

Exhibit A-3

 

 

exhibit b

 

Form of Underwriter’s Warrant

 

Attached

 

Exhibit - B 

 

 

Schedule 3.1(a)

 

Lighthouse Financial Corp.

 

On March 31, 2021, John Keeler & Co., Inc. and Coastal Pride Company, Inc. entered into a loan and security agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with Lighthouse Financial Corp. (“Lighthouse”) pursuant to the terms of the Loan Agreement, Lighthouse made available to John Keeler & Co., Inc. and Coastal Pride Company, Inc. (together, the “Borrowers”) a $5,000,000 revolving line of credit for a term of thirty-six months, renewable annually for one-year periods thereafter. Amounts due under the line of credit are represented by a revolving credit note issued to Lighthouse by the Borrowers.

 

The advance rate of the revolving line of credit is 85% with respect to eligible accounts receivable and the lower of 60% of the Borrowers’ eligible inventory, or 80% of the net orderly liquidation value, subject to an inventory sublimit of $2,500,000. The inventory portion of the loan will never exceed 50% of the outstanding balance. Interest on the line of credit is the prime rate (with a floor of 3.25%), plus 3.75%. The Borrowers will pay Lighthouse a facility fee of $50,000 in three installments of $16,667 in March, April and May 2021 and will pay an additional facility fee of $25,000 on each anniversary of March 31, 2021.

 

The line of credit is secured by a first priority security interest on all the assets of each Borrower. Pursuant to the terms of a guaranty agreement, the Company guaranteed the obligations of the Borrowers under the note and John Keeler, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, provided a personal guaranty of up to $1,000,000 to Lighthouse. The outstanding balance owed to Lighthouse as of June 30, 2021 amounted to $631,958.

 

Schedule 3.1(a)

 

 

Exhibit 10.56

 

BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.

 

COMMON STOCK PURCHASE WARRANT

 

WARRANT CERTIFICATE

 

THIS WARRANT CERTIFICATE (the “Warrant Certificate”) certifies that for value received, Newbridge Securities Corporation and Revere Securities LLC (each a “Holder” and, together, the “Holders”), are the owners of this warrant (the “Warrant”), which entitles the Holders to purchase at any time on or before the Expiration Date (as defined below) ________________________ (__________) shares (the “Warrant Shares”) of fully paid non-assessable shares of the common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Common Stock”) of BLUE STAR FOODS CORP., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), at a purchase price per Warrant Share of _____________ Dollars ($_______) (the “Exercise Price”), in lawful money of the United States of America by bank or certified check, subject to adjustment as hereinafter provided. This Warrant Certificate is issued in accordance with, and as required by, the terms of that certain Investment Banking Engagement Agreement dated July 8, 2021, as amended, by and among the Company and the Holders.

 

1. WARRANT; EXERCISE PRICE.

 

This Warrant shall entitle the Holders to purchase the Warrant Shares at the Exercise Price. The Exercise Price and the number of Warrant Shares evidenced by this Warrant Certificate are subject to adjustment as provided in Article 6.

 

2. EXERCISE; EXPIRATION DATE.

 

(a) This Warrant is exercisable, at the option of the Holders, in whole or in part, commencing on a date which is one hundred eighty (180) days from the commencement of sales of the Common Stock sold in an offering pursuant to a certain underwriting agreement by and among the Company and the Holders dated __________, 2021 (the “Offering”), and expiring on the three year anniversary of the effective date of the registration statement filed under the Offering. The Warrant may be exercised by delivering to the Company written notice of exercise (the “Exercise Notice”), stating the number of Warrant Shares to be purchased thereby, accompanied by bank or certified check payable to the order of the Company or by bank wire transfer in immediately available funds for the Warrant Shares being purchased. Within ten (10) business days of the Company’s receipt of the Exercise Notice accompanied by the consideration for the Warrant Shares being purchased, the Company shall instruct its transfer agent to issue and deliver to the Holders a certificate representing the Warrant Shares being purchased. In the case of exercise for less than all of the Warrant Shares represented by this Warrant Certificate, the Company shall cancel this Warrant Certificate upon the surrender thereof and shall execute and deliver a new Warrant Certificate for the balance of such Warrant Shares. The Company, or its designee, shall maintain records showing the number of Warrant Shares purchased and the date of such purchases. Upon delivery of the Exercise Notice to the Company pursuant to this Section 2(a), the Holders shall be deemed for all corporate purposes to have become the holders of record of the Warrant Shares with respect to which this Warrant has been exercised pursuant to such Exercise Notice.

 

(b) Expiration. The term “Expiration Date” shall mean 5:00 p.m., New York time, on ____ ___, 2024, or if such date in the State of New York shall be a holiday or a day on which banks are authorized to close, then 5:00 p.m., eastern standard time, the next following day which in the State of New York is not a holiday or a day on which banks are authorized to close.

 

 
 

 

3. TRANSFER.

 

(a) Transferability. In accordance with FINRA Rule 5110(e)(1), neither the Warrants nor the Warrant Shares may be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, or hypothecated, or be the subject of any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of such securities by any person or a period of 180 days immediately following the date of effectiveness or commencement of sales of the Offering pursuant to which the underwriter’s warrants being issued, except the transfer of any security: (i) by operation of law or by reason of reorganization of our company; (ii) to any FINRA member firm participating in the Offering and the officers or partners thereof, if all securities so transferred remain subject to the lock-up restriction described above for the remainder of the time period; (iii) if the aggregate amount of our securities held by either an underwriter or a related person do not exceed 1% of the securities being offered; (iv) that is beneficially owned on a pro-rata basis by all equity owners of an investment fund, provided that no participating member manages or otherwise directs investments by the fund, and participating members in the aggregate do not own more than 10% of the equity in the fund; or (v) the exercise or conversion of any security, if all securities received remain subject to the lock-up restriction set forth above for the remainder of the time period. In order to make any permitted assignment, this Warrant shall be surrendered at the principal office of the Company or its designated agent, together with a written assignment of this Warrant substantially in the form attached hereto duly executed by the Holders or their agent or attorney and funds sufficient to pay any transfer taxes payable upon the making of such transfer. Upon such surrender and, if required, such payment, the Company shall execute and deliver a new Warrant or Warrants in the name of the assignee or assignees, as applicable, and in the denomination or denominations specified in such instrument of assignment, and shall issue to the assignor a new Warrant evidencing the portion of this Warrant not so assigned, and this Warrant shall promptly be cancelled. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Holders shall not be required to physically surrender this Warrant to the Company unless the Holders have assigned this Warrant in full, in which case, the Holders shall surrender this Warrant to the Company within three (3) Trading Days of the date the Holders deliver an assignment form to the Company assigning this Warrant in full. The Warrant, if properly assigned in accordance herewith, may be exercised by a new holder for the purchase of Warrant Shares without having a new Warrant issued.

 

(b) New Warrants. This Warrant may be divided or combined with other Warrants upon presentation hereof at the aforesaid office of the Company, together with a written notice specifying the names and denominations in which new Warrants are to be issued, signed by the Holders or their agent or attorney. Subject to compliance with Section 3(a), as to any transfer which may be involved in such division or combination, the Company shall execute and deliver a new Warrant or Warrants in exchange for the Warrant or Warrants to be divided or combined in accordance with such notice. All Warrants issued on transfers or exchanges shall be dated the initial issuance date of this Warrant and shall be identical with this Warrant except as to the number of Warrant Shares issuable pursuant thereto.

 

(c) Warrant Register. The Company shall register this Warrant, upon records to be maintained by the Company or on behalf of the Company for that purpose (the “Warrant Register”), in the name of the record Holders hereof from time to time. The Company may deem and treat the registered Holders of this Warrant as the absolute owners hereof for the purpose of any exercise hereof or any distribution to the Holders, and for all other purposes, absent actual written notice to the contrary from the Holders. Upon thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the Holders, the Company may appoint a warrant agent (the “Warrant Agent”) to maintain the Warrant Register. Either the transfer agent for the Company or a third party may be appointed by the Company as the Warrant Agent, at the Company’s sole discretion. The Company shall remain responsible for the contents of the Warrant Register, notwithstanding the appointment of a Warrant Agent.

 

4. RESERVATION OF SHARES.

 

The Company covenants that it will at all time reserve and keep available out of its authorized Common Stock, solely for the purpose of issuance upon exercise of this Warrant, such number of shares of Common Stock as shall then be issuable upon the exercise of this Warrant. The Company covenants that all shares of Common Stock which shall be issuable upon exercise of this Warrant shall be duly and validly issued and fully paid and non-assessable and free from all taxes, liens, and charges with respect to the issue thereof.

 

5. LOSS OR MUTILATION.

 

If the Holders lose this Warrant, or if this Warrant is stolen, destroyed or mutilated, the Company shall issue an identical replacement Warrant upon the Holders’ delivery to the Company of a customary agreement to indemnify the Company for any losses resulting from the issuance of the replacement Warrant.

 

 
 

 

6. PROVISIONS REGARDING ADJUSTMENTS TO STOCK.

 

(a) Stock Dividends, Subdivisions and Combinations. If at any time the Company shall:

 

(i) take a record of the holders of its Common Stock for the purpose of entitling them to receive a dividend payable in, or other distribution of, additional shares of Common Stock,

 

(ii) subdivide its outstanding shares of Common Stock into a larger number of shares of Common Stock, or

 

(iii) combine its outstanding shares of Common Stock into a smaller number of shares of Common Stock,

 

then (A) the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable into immediately after the occurrence of any such event shall be adjusted to equal the number of shares of Common Stock which a record holder of the same number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable into immediately prior to the occurrence of such event would own or be entitled to receive after the happening of such event, and (B) the Exercise Price shall be adjusted to equal (x) the current Exercise Price immediately prior to the adjustment multiplied by the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable into immediately prior to the adjustment divided by (y) the number of shares of Common Stock for which this Warrant is exercisable into immediately after such adjustment. Provided that, no Holder shall receive or accrue cash dividends with respect to Warrants that have not been exercised into shares of Common Stock.

 

(b) Certificate as to Adjustments. Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of the Exercise Price, the Company, at its expense, shall promptly, and in any event within two (2) business days, compute such adjustment or readjustment in accordance with the terms hereof and prepare and furnish to the Holders a certificate setting forth such adjustment or readjustment and showing in detail the facts upon which such adjustment or readjustment is based. The Company shall, upon the written request at any time of the Holders, furnish or cause to be furnished to such holder a like certificate setting forth (i) such adjustments and readjustments, (ii) the Exercise Price at the time in effect for this Warrant and (iii) the number of shares of Common Stock and the amount, if any, or other property which at the time would be received upon the exercise of this Warrant.

 

(c) Notices of Record Date. In the event of any fixing by the Company of a record date for the holders of any class of securities for the purpose of determining the holders thereof who are entitled to receive any dividend (other than a cash dividend) or other distribution, any shares of Common Stock or other securities, or any right to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire, or any option for the purchase of, any shares of stock of any class or any other securities or property, or to receive any other right, the Company shall mail to the Holders at least thirty (30) days prior to the date specified therein, a notice specifying the date on which any such record is to be taken for the purpose of such dividend, distribution or rights, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right.

 

(d) Merger, Consolidation, etc. In case of any capital reorganization or any reclassification of the capital stock of the Company or in case of the consolidation or merger of the Company with another corporation (or in the case of any sale, transfer, or other disposition to another corporation of all or substantially all the property, assets, business, and goodwill of the Company), the Holders of this Warrant shall thereafter be entitled to purchase the kind and amount of shares of capital stock which this Warrant entitled the Holders to purchase immediately prior to such capital reorganization, reclassification of capital stock, consolidation, merger, sale, transfer, or other disposition; and in any such case appropriate adjustments shall be made in the application of the provisions of this Section 6 with respect to rights and interests thereafter of the Holders of this Warrant to the end that the provisions of this Section 6 shall thereafter be applicable, as near as reasonably may be, in relation to any shares or other property thereafter purchasable upon the exercise of this Warrant.

 

 
 

 

(e) Fractional Shares. No certificate for fractional shares shall be issued upon the exercise of this Warrant, but in lieu thereof the Company shall purchase any such fractional shares calculated to the nearest cent or round up the fraction to the next whole share.

 

(f) Rights of the Holders. The Holders of this Warrant shall not be entitled to any rights of a shareholder of the Company in respect of any Warrant Shares purchasable upon the exercise hereof until such Warrant Shares have been paid for in full and issued to it. As soon as practicable after such exercise, the Company shall deliver a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable upon such exercise, to the person or persons entitled to receive the same. The Company will not close its shareholder books or records in any manner which prevents the timely exercise of this Warrant, pursuant to the terms hereof.

 

7. NO IMPAIRMENT.

 

The Company shall not by any action including, without limitation, amending its certificate of incorporation or through any 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 of this Warrant, but will at all times in good faith assist in the carrying out of all such terms and in the taking of all such actions as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the rights of Holders against impairment. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Company will (a) not increase the par value of any shares of Common Stock receivable upon the exercise of this Warrant above the amount payable therefore upon such exercise immediately prior to such increase in par value, (b) take all such actions as may be necessary or appropriate in order that the Company may validly and legally issue fully paid and non assessable shares of Common Stock upon the exercise of this Warrant, and (c) use its best efforts to obtain all such authorizations, exemptions or consents from any public regulatory body having jurisdiction thereof as may be necessary to enable the Company to perform its obligations under this Warrant. Upon the request of Holders, the Company will at any time during the period this Warrant is outstanding acknowledge in writing, in form satisfactory to Holders, the continuing validity of this Warrant and the obligations of the Company hereunder.

 

8. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.

 

No provision hereof, in the absence of affirmative action by Holders to purchase shares of Common Stock, and no enumeration herein of the rights or privileges of Holders hereof, shall give rise to any liability of Holders for the purchase price of any Common Stock or as a stockholder of the Company, whether such liability is asserted by the Company or by creditors of the Company.

 

9. MISCELLANEOUS.

 

(a) Transfer Taxes; Expenses. The Holders shall pay any and all underwriters’ discounts, brokerage fees, and transfer taxes incident to the sale or exercise of this Warrant or the sale of the underlying shares issuable hereunder, and shall pay the fees and expenses of any special attorneys or accountants retained by it.

 

(b) Successors and Assigns. Subject to compliance with the provisions of Section 3, this Warrant and the rights evidenced hereby shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the successors of the Company and the successors and assigns of Holders. The provisions of this Warrant are intended to be for the benefit of all Holders from time to time of this Warrant and shall be enforceable by any such Holder.

 

 
 

 

(c) Certain Covenants. The Company covenants that all shares of Common Stock issued upon exercise of this Warrant will be fully paid and non-assessable by the Company and free from all taxes, liens and charges with respect to the issue thereof. If any shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise hereof require registration with or approval of any governmental authority under any federal or state law before such shares of Common Stock may be validly issued upon exercise, the Company will, to the extent then permitted by the rules and interpretations of the applicable government authority, use its best efforts to secure such registration or approval, as the case may be. The Company further covenants that if at any time the Common Stock shall be listed on any national securities exchange or automated quotation system, the Company will list and keep listed, so long as the Common Stock shall be so listed on such exchange or automated quotation system, any Common Stock issuable upon exercise of this Warrant.

 

(d) Limitation of Liability. No provision hereof, in the absence of any affirmative action by the Holders to exercise this Warrant to purchase Warrant Shares, and no enumeration herein of the rights or privileges of the Holders, shall give rise to any liability of the Holders for the purchase price of any Common Stock or as a shareholder of the Company, whether such liability is asserted by the Company or by creditors of the Company.

 

(e) Notice. Any notice or other communication required or permitted to be given to the Company shall be in writing and shall be delivered by certified mail with return receipt or delivered in person against receipt, addressed to the Company at its address listed in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

(f) Governing Law. This Warrant shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the internal laws of the State of Delaware, without reference to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

 

(g) Amendment. This Warrant may be modified or amended or the provisions hereof waived only with the written consent of the Company and the Holders.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Warrant to be duly executed as of the date set forth below.

 

  BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.
     
  By:  
  Name: John R. Keeler
  Title: Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

 
 

 

BLUE STAR FOODS CORP.

 

FORM OF EXERCISE OF WARRANT

 

The undersigned hereby elects to exercise this Warrant as to _____________ shares of the Common Stock of BLUE STAR FOODS CORP., a Delaware corporation, covered thereby. Enclosed herewith is a bank or certified check in the amount of $_____________ payable to the Company.

 

The shares should be sent to me at the address provided below.

 

Date:________________    
    (Signature)
     
       
    Name (Printed):  
       
    Address:  
     
     
       
    Social Security Number (for individual holder) or Employer Identification Number (Tax ID) (for entity):
     
     

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 23.1

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

We consent to the inclusion in this Registration Statement on Form S-1/A of our report dated April 15, 2021 with respect to the audited consolidated financial statements of Blue Star Foods Corp. for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. Our report contains an explanatory paragraph regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

 

We also consent to the references to us under the heading “Experts” in such Registration Statement.

 

/s/ MaloneBailey, LLP

www.malonebailey.com

Houston, Texas

October 25, 2021