Applica Incorporated
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Filed by the registrant x
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Preliminary proxy statement |
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Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2) |
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Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12 |
APPLICA INCORPORATED
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
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(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
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identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
SCHEDULE 14D-9
(RULE 14d-101)
SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT UNDER SECTION 14(d)(4)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Applica Incorporated
(Name of Subject Company)
Applica Incorporated
(Name of Person(s) Filing Statement)
Common Stock, Par Value $0.10 Per Share
(Title of Class of Securities)
03815A106
(CUSIP Number of Class of Securities)
Harry D. Schulman
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
Applica Incorporated
3633 Flamingo Road
Miramar, Florida 33027
(954) 883-1000
(Name, Address and Telephone Number of Person Authorized to Receive
Notices and Communications on Behalf of the Person(s) Filing Statement)
Copies To:
Paul Berkowitz, Esq.
Barbara Oikle, Esq.
Greenberg Traurig, P.A.
1221 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL 33131
Telephone: (305) 579-0500
Facsimile: (305) 961-5722
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Check the box if the filing relates solely to preliminary communications made before the
commencement of a tender offer. |
Item 1. Subject Company Information.
(a) The name of the subject company is Applica Incorporated, or Applica, which is a Florida
corporation. The address and telephone number of Applicas principal executive offices are 3633
Flamingo Road, Miramar, Florida 33027 and (954) 883-1000.
(b) This Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14d-9 relates to Applicas common
stock, par value $0.10. As of November 27, 2006, there were 25,001,100 shares of Applicas common
stock outstanding and an additional 1,098,546 shares of common stock reserved for issuance under
Applicas equity compensation plans.
Item 2. Identity and Background of Filing Person.
(a) Applica is the person filing this Statement and is the subject company. The information
about Applicas address and business telephone number in Item 1(a) above is incorporated herein by
reference. Applicas website is www.applicainc.com. The information on Applicas website should
not be considered a part of this Statement.
(b) This Statement relates to the tender offer by Apex Acquisition Corporation, or NACCO Sub,
which is a newly formed Florida corporation and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of NACCO
Industries, Inc., or NACCO, which is a Delaware corporation, to purchase all of the issued and
outstanding shares of Applicas common stock at a purchase price of $6.50 per share, net to the
seller in cash, without interest. The tender offer is being made on the terms and subject to the
conditions set forth in the Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO and the exhibits thereto filed by
NACCO and NACCO Sub with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 15, 2006. The value of
the consideration offered, together with all of the terms and conditions applicable to the tender
offer, is referred to in this Statement as the NACCO offer. The Schedule TO states that NACCO
intends, as soon as practicable after successful completion of the NACCO offer, to seek to have
NACCO Sub merge with and into Applica in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Florida
Business Corporation Act, or the FBCA.
According to the Schedule TO, the business address and telephone number of each of NACCO and
NACCO Sub is 5875 Landerbrook Drive, Cleveland, Ohio 44124 and (440) 449-9600.
Item 3. Past Contacts, Transactions, Negotiations and Agreements.
(a) Arrangements with Executive Officers and Directors of Applica.
Except as described in this Statement or in the excerpts from Applicas Definitive Proxy
Statement on Schedule 14A that was filed with the SEC on March 31, 2006, which excerpts are filed
as Exhibit (e)(1) to this Statement, relating to Applicas annual meeting of shareholders,
or in excepts from Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A that was filed with the SEC
on December 4, 2006, as supplemented by Applicas Supplement to Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
that was filed with the SEC on December 15, 2006, relating to the proposed
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merger with Harbinger, which excerpts are filed as Exhibit (e)(2) to this Statement,
or as otherwise incorporated herein by reference, to the knowledge of Applica, as of the date of
this Statement, there are no material agreements, arrangements or understandings, nor any actual or
potential conflicts of interest, between Applica or its affiliates and (i) Applicas executive
officers, directors or affiliates or (ii) the NACCO Sub, NACCO or their respective executive
officers, directors or affiliates. The exhibits filed as Exhibit (e)(1) and Exhibit
(e)(2) to this Statement are incorporated herein by reference, and include the information on
the following pages and with the following headings from the annual meeting proxy statement and the
Harbinger merger proxy statement:
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Pages 5 and 6 of the annual meeting proxy statement, Stock Ownership; |
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Pages 8 and 9 of the annual meeting proxy statement, How are directors
compensated?; |
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Pages 14 and 15 of the annual meeting proxy statement, Executive Compensation; |
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Pages 15 through 17 of the annual meeting proxy statement, Report of the
Compensation Committee on Executive Compensation; |
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Pages 19 and 20 of the annual meeting proxy statement, Employment Agreements; |
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Page 21 of the annual meeting proxy statement, Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions; |
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Pages 37 through 41 of the Harbinger merger proxy statement, Interests of Our
Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger; |
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Page 45 of the Harbinger merger proxy statement, Consideration To Be Received in
the Merger; and |
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Pages 62 and 63 of the Harbinger merger proxy statement, Security Ownership of
Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. |
Any information contained in the pages incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed
modified or superseded for purposes of this Statement to the extent that any information contained
herein modifies or supersedes such information, or to the extent any information contained in the
Harbinger merger proxy statement modifies or supersedes information contained in the annual meeting
proxy statement.
In considering the recommendation of the Applica board with respect to the NACCO offer,
Applicas shareholders should be aware that certain executive officers and directors of Applica
have interests in the NACCO offer that are described below and, with respect to the Harbinger
merger and change of control transactions generally, in the Harbinger merger proxy statement.
The Applica board was aware of any such agreements, arrangements or understandings and any actual
or potential conflicts of interest and considered them along with
other matters described below in Item 4: The Solicitation or Recommendation Reasons for
Recommendation.
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Applicas directors and executive officers have entered into, or participate in, as
applicable, the various agreements and arrangements discussed below. In the case of each plan or
agreement discussed in the exhibits filed as Exhibit (e)(1) and Exhibit (e)(2) to
this Statement that are incorporated herein by reference to which the term change of control
applies, the consummation of the NACCO offer would constitute a change of control.
Cash Consideration Payable Pursuant to the NACCO Offer. If Applicas directors and executive
officers were to tender any shares of Applicas common stock they own for purchase pursuant to the
NACCO offer, they would receive the same cash consideration on the same terms and conditions as the
other Applica shareholders. As of November 27, 2006, Applicas directors and executive officers
and their affiliates beneficially owned in the aggregate approximately 2,753,985 shares of
Applicas common stock (excluding options to purchase such shares). If the directors and executive
officers were to tender all of their shares for purchase pursuant to the NACCO offer and those
shares were accepted for purchase and purchased by NACCO Sub, the directors and officers would
receive an aggregate of $17,900,902.50 in cash.
As discussed below in Item 4(d), to the knowledge of Applica, none of Applicas executive
officers, directors, affiliates or subsidiaries currently intends to tender shares of Applicas
common stock held of record or beneficially by such person for purchase pursuant to the NACCO
offer.
As of November 27, 2006, Applicas directors and executive officers held options to purchase
842,500 shares of Applicas common stock, 623,667 of which were vested and exercisable as of that
date. The outstanding options have exercise prices ranging from $2.86 to $31.6875 and an aggregate
weighted average exercise price of $5.08 per share. Of the total options outstanding as of
November 27, 2006, options to purchase 770,000 shares of Applicas common stock had exercise prices
that were less than NACCOs $6.50 offer price, 549,667 of which were vested and exercisable as of
November 27, 2006. The weighted average exercise price of these in the money options was $4.31.
All of the unvested options would fully vest upon the consummation of the NACCO offer pursuant to
the terms of Applicas 1988 Directors Stock Option Plan, 1992 Employees Incentive Stock Option
Plan, 1996 Stock Option Plan, the 1998 Stock Option Plan and the 2000 Stock Option Plan.
(b) NACCO Ownership and Trading in Applica Common Stock.
According to the Schedule TO, as of December 15, 2006, NACCO, directly and indirectly,
beneficially owned 1,001 shares of Applicas common stock, or less than 1% of the 25,001,100 shares
of Applicas common stock outstanding on November 27, 2006, the record date for Applicas special
meeting of shareholders. Furthermore, according to the Schedule TO, neither NACCO, NACCO Sub nor
any of their respective directors or executive officers effected any transactions in such shares
during the 60 days prior to December 15, 2006.
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Item 4. The Solicitation or Recommendation.
(a) Solicitation/Recommendation.
As described in subsection (c) below, after careful consideration, the Applica board
determined at a meeting on December 18, 2006 to recommend that Applicas shareholders reject the
NACCO offer and not tender their shares in the NACCO offer.
Accordingly, the Applica board recommends that Applicas shareholders reject the NACCO offer
and not tender their shares in the NACCO offer.
In addition, the Applica board reaffirms the Harbinger merger and recommends that Applicas
shareholders vote FOR the adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 19,
2006, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto, dated as of December 14, 2006, among Applica and
certain affiliates of Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd., which are collectively
referred to in this Statement as Harbinger.
A letter communicating the Applica boards recommendation and a press release relating to such
recommendation are filed as Exhibit (a)(1) and Exhibit (a)(2), respectively.
The Applica board also recommends that, even if a shareholder does not vote with respect to
the Harbinger merger agreement at this time, that such shareholder vote FOR the proposal to
adjourn or postpone the special meeting of Applicas shareholders, if necessary or appropriate, to
solicit additional proxies if there are insufficient shares present or represented at the meeting
to constitute a quorum or insufficient votes at the time of the meeting to adopt the Harbinger
merger agreement. The ability to adjourn or postpone the special meeting will give the Applica
board the flexibility to preserve the existing transaction with Harbinger should the vote not be
obtained by December 28, 2006.
(b) Background.
In recent years, the small household appliance industry in which Applica competes has come
under significantly increasing competitive pressures. Consolidation in the retail industry,
product price deflation, increased raw material prices and competition from higher-priced brands
have all impacted the competitive landscape. These pressures have combined to increase the need
for Applica to improve its operations and to consider potential transactions with strategic
partners. In response to these pressures, the Applica board regularly evaluated Applicas
operations and financial plan and discussed ways to maximize shareholder value.
Over the past few years, Applicas senior management had informal, high level conversations
with the management teams of certain third parties in the household appliance industry regarding
potential strategic transactions. In the spring of 2005, Alfred M. Rankin, Jr., Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of NACCO contacted Harry Schulman, Applicas Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, to express NACCOs preliminary interest in pursuing discussions regarding a strategic
transaction between Applica and Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, a subsidiary of NACCO. In April
2005, NACCO and Applica entered into a confidentiality agreement in connection with preliminary
discussions between management of NACCO and
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Applica in connection with a potential transaction. Representatives of NACCO and Applica
continued to have high-level discussions regarding a potential transaction from time to time
throughout the second half of 2005. In the fall of 2005, Mr. Schulman advised Mr. Rankin that
Applica was pursuing an internal restructuring aimed at maximizing shareholder value and expressed
his view that, until Applica had an opportunity to more fully explore the potential benefits of the
internal restructuring, he believed that it was premature to discuss a potential business
combination transaction. Mr. Schulman indicated he intended to discuss the possibility of pursuing
a transaction with NACCO with the Applica board and encouraged Mr. Rankin to contact him in 2006 if
NACCO remained interested in pursuing further discussions.
As part of its restructuring efforts, Applica decided to close its remaining manufacturing
operations in Mexico, which occurred in October 2005. In addition, the Applica board retained
Alvarez & Marsal, LLC, a global professional services firm specializing in turnaround management,
to work with the board of directors and management team to identify actions to accelerate Applicas
financial turnaround. Alvarez & Marsal assisted senior management in evaluating Applicas
strategic plan, implementing various business initiatives and driving performance improvement. The
Applica board also appointed an employee of Alvarez & Marsal as interim Chief Operating Officer,
who served in such position until May 2006.
In the second half of 2005, Applica was contacted by another industry participant, Salton,
Inc., which expressed a preliminary interest in exploring a merger transaction with Applica. On
November 1, 2005, an Applica board meeting was held, which was attended by Applicas senior
management and financial advisor, Banc of America Securities. Mr. Schulman informed the Applica
board members of his conversations with Salton. Applicas financial advisor discussed with the
Applica board certain publicly available information relating to Saltons recent financial and
stock price performance. At this meeting, the Applica board authorized Applicas senior management
and financial advisor to have an initial meeting with Salton to preliminarily discuss the
possibility of a combination. Members of senior management updated the Applica board members on
the conversations with Salton at a meeting held on December 7, 2005.
On January 9, 2006, Mr. Rankin called Mr. Schulman to express NACCOs continued interest in
pursuing discussions regarding a potential transaction with Applica and advised Mr. Schulman that
NACCO was considering a structure that NACCO believed would be attractive to Applica and its
shareholders. Mr. Schulman advised Mr. Rankin that he would discuss NACCOs interest with the
Applica board at the next meeting.
On January 20, 2006, a meeting of the Applica board was held, which was attended by Applicas
senior management and financial advisor. Representatives of Alvarez & Marsal, LLC were also
present at the meeting. Applicas financial advisor provided the Applica board with a general
update on the small household appliance industry and discussed various issues that could
potentially impact Applicas ability to effect certain strategic alternatives that might provide
shareholder value. These included Applicas ability to finance stock repurchases, dividends or
acquisitions and to achieve Applicas business plan as an independent company given, among other
things, Applicas leverage and recent financial and stock price performance. Applicas financial
advisor then updated the Applica board on its recent conversations with Salton and discussed with
the Applica board the potential pro forma equity ownership in a combination with
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Salton and the potential debt structure of the resulting entity. The Applica board members
discussed the advantages and disadvantages of a combination with Salton with Applicas senior
management and financial advisor.
The representatives of Alvarez & Marsal discussed with the Applica board members their views
with respect to the small household appliance industry and Applicas position in it. They also
discussed their views of the strategic alternatives available to Applica, including selling the
company, continuing as an independent company, undertaking further restructuring and then selling
the company, and the sale of portions of Applicas business.
Additionally, during the January 20, 2006 meeting, Mr. Schulman advised the Applica board of
the details of his call with Mr. Rankin regarding NACCOs interest in pursuing a strategic
transaction with Applica through a spin-off of its Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex business followed
by a merger with Applica. The Applica board engaged in a general discussion regarding the
potential merger transactions with NACCO and Salton. The directors noted Saltons financial
performance and the significant leverage of the combined entity that would result from a
transaction with Salton. They also discussed the potential synergies available in a transaction
with either party. The Applica board authorized Applicas senior management and financial advisor
to meet with NACCO, to continue discussions with Salton and to report back to the Applica board
regarding each.
During a regular meeting of the Applica board held on February 17, 2006, attended by Applicas
senior management and Alvarez & Marsal, representatives of Alvarez & Marsal engaged in further
discussion with the Applica board regarding its analysis of Applicas potential strategic
alternatives given the challenges and opportunities presented by the changing competitive landscape
and industry trends. Alvarez & Marsal informed the Applica board members that it recommended that
Applica continue its restructuring efforts while simultaneously commencing a process to sell or
merge the company. The Applica board discussed the potential benefits and risks of the strategic
alternatives available to Applica, including those that did not involve a sale of the company. In
deciding whether to formally pursue potential strategic alternatives, the directors discussed the
risks that would be involved in moving forward with a sale process, including the potential
disruption to the business arising from the uncertainty experienced by employees, suppliers and
customers. The Applica board also discussed Applicas business and financial prospects if Applica
remained independent in light of the potential effects of consolidation of the industry and the
possibility that no attractive bids for Applica would materialize if the decision to commence a
sale process were delayed. Following this discussion, the independent Applica board members met in
executive session to discuss theses issues. Following the executive session, the full Applica
board resumed its meeting and unanimously determined that it would be in the best interests of
Applicas shareholders to engage in an organized process to explore possible strategic alternatives
for the sale or merger of the company in order to enhance shareholder value.
On February 21 and 22, 2006, senior representatives of NACCO met with Applicas senior
management and financial advisor to explore a potential transaction. On February 28, 2006, Applica
publicly announced that it was exploring possible strategic alternatives to enhance shareholder
value.
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On March 7, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting, which was attended by Applicas senior
management and financial advisor. At the meeting, Applicas financial advisor discussed with the
Applica board matters pertaining to the strategic alternative process, including possible
transaction structures and potential entities to be contacted in such process (including NACCO and
Salton), and outlined for the Applica board the mechanics for soliciting indications of interest
from potential partners and a possible transaction timeline. Applicas General Counsel also
reviewed with the Applica board its fiduciary duties in evaluating merger and acquisition
transactions.
On March 13, 2006, Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. filed a Schedule 13G
indicating that it had acquired beneficial ownership of 2,079,330 shares, or 8.6% of the
outstanding shares of Applicas common stock, and certain other reporting persons named therein had
acquired beneficial ownership of 2,154,600 shares (including the 2,079,330 shares beneficially
owned by Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd.), or 8.9% of the outstanding shares of
Applicas common stock.
In March 2006, at the direction of the Applica board, 20 potential financial buyers and 26
potential strategic buyers (including Salton and NACCO) were contacted by Banc of America
Securities to determine their interest in a potential transaction with Applica. Of the 46 parties
contacted, seven expressed initial indications of interest (three of which expressed interest in
all of Applicas assets (including NACCO and Salton) and four of which expressed interest in parts
of Applicas business.
On March 31, 2006, NACCOs financial advisor contacted Applicas financial advisor to discuss
the strategic alternative process. NACCOs initial indication of interest dated April 19, 2006
proposed a transaction in which NACCO would spin off the holding company for Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silex, which would immediately thereafter merge with Applica. The indication
provided that the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock would be converted into the right to
receive a number of shares of the combined entity equal to 25% of the aggregate number of shares of
the combined entity outstanding immediately following the spin off and merger. The proposal also
included the payment of a cash dividend of between $100 million and $125 million from Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silex to NACCO immediately preceding the spin off and merger, which was based on the
pro forma capital structure of the combined company and the equity value of the merger
consideration. Saltons initial indication of interest proposed a stock-for-stock merger of Salton
with Applica at an exchange ratio to be determined at the closing of such transaction based on
Saltons 30-day average trading price prior to the closing date of the transaction and assuming a
value of $2.75 to $3.25 per share for Applica common stock. According to Saltons initial
indication of interest, based on a trading price for Salton common stock of between $3.00 and
$4.00, prices that were significantly above the then-current Salton trading price, and assuming a
value of between $2.75 to $3.25 per share for Applica common stock, Applica shareholders would have
received approximately 40% to 48% of the common stock of the combined entity outstanding
immediately following the merger. The third party that submitted an initial indication of interest
for all of the company proposed an all cash transaction.
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The Applica board met on April 4, 2006 and April 19, 2006 and received updates from Applicas
financial advisor regarding the indications of interest that had been received.
On April 13, 2006, Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. filed an amendment to its
Schedule 13G indicating that it had increased its beneficial ownership in Applica to 3,739,730
shares, or 15.5% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock, and that certain other
reporting persons named therein had increased their beneficial ownership in Applica to 3,815,000
shares (including the 3,739,730 shares beneficially owned by Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund
I, Ltd.), or 15.8% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock.
In April and May 2006, Applicas management made five separate presentations to parties that
had expressed initial indications of interest. Three presentations were made to parties that had
expressed interest in a transaction involving the entire company (including NACCO and Salton) and
two presentations were made to those parties expressing interest in acquiring only certain of
Applicas businesses. Following these management presentations, each party was asked to confirm
its initial views on value after participating in the management presentation. After the
management presentations, the two parties expressing interest in acquiring only certain of
Applicas assets maintained their initial indications of interest, NACCO confirmed its proposal and
Salton submitted a revised indication of interest that improved its initial merger proposal.
Saltons revised indication of interest proposed a stock-for-stock merger of Salton with us at an
exchange ratio to be determined at the closing of such transaction based on Saltons 30-day average
trading price prior to the closing date of the transaction and assuming a value of $3.25 to $4.00
per share for Applica common stock. According to Saltons revised indication of interest, based on
a trading price for Salton common stock of between $3.00 and $4.50, prices that were significantly
above the then-current Salton trading price, and assuming a value of between $3.25 to $4.00 per
share for Applica common stock, Applica shareholders would have received approximately 43% to 52%
of the common stock of the combined entity outstanding immediately following the merger. As an
alternative structure, Salton indicated that it would consider a transaction in which the
consideration would consist of a combination of stock and cash in which each outstanding share of
Applicas common stock would convert into the right to receive one share of Salton common stock
plus a cash amount equal to the lesser of $0.75 or the difference between Applicas and Saltons
30-day average stock prices prior to closing. According to Saltons revised indication of
interest, under this alternative based on a trading price for Salton common stock of between $3.00
and $4.50, prices that were significantly above the then-current Salton trading price, and assuming
a value of between $3.25 to $4.25 per share for Applica common stock, Applica shareholders would
have received approximately 42% to 51% of the common stock of the combined entity outstanding
immediately following the merger. The other party interested in acquiring the company verbally
lowered its cash offer and also informed Applicas financial advisor that it was likely to have
difficulty completing a transaction on the terms proposed given that it was not currently a
participant in the small household appliance industry and, consequently, there would be no
potential for material synergies.
On May 2, 2006, a regular meeting of the Applica board was held, at which the directors
received an update from senior management on the strategic alternatives process and the management
presentations. Additionally, on May 5, 2006, a meeting of the Applica board was held, which was
attended by Applicas senior management and financial advisor. At this
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meeting, Applicas management and financial advisor further updated the Applica board members
on the strategic alternative process and the indications of interest that had been received.
Applicas financial advisor reviewed each of the proposals with the Applica board and discussed
certain publicly available financial and other information relating to the potential bidders.
The Applica board discussed the implications of selling certain of Applicas businesses, as
proposed in two of the indications of interest, and concluded that it was unlikely that a partial
sale would meaningfully improve the market price of Applicas common stock. The Applica board
members also discussed the three proposals regarding the sale or merger of the entire company. The
Applica board was informed by Applicas financial advisor that the party offering to purchase the
company for cash had indicated that it was likely to have difficulty completing a transaction on
the terms proposed. Applicas financial advisor also relayed to the directors the reasons
articulated by such party. The Applica board then discussed various aspects of the proposals made
by NACCO and Salton. The Applica board also discussed the fact that a merger transaction would
require diligence reviews by Applica of the proposed merger partner and that it would not be
feasible to conduct diligence reviews of both Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex and Salton
simultaneously. After comparing the proposals from NACCO and Salton with respect to the strategic
fit with Applica, each partys historical and projected financial performance, the strategic
rationale of each companies brand channels and the potential pro forma leverage of the combined
company following a merger transaction, the Applica board decided to pursue a potential transaction
with NACCO. The directors instructed Applicas financial advisor to inform NACCO that it could
commence detailed due diligence and that the Applica board would further assess the merits of its
transaction proposal. The Applica board also instructed Applicas financial advisor to inform the
other parties which had provided indications of interest (including Salton) that Applica would be
focusing on another proposal.
Following the May 5, 2006 meeting of the Applica board, Applicas senior management and legal
and financial advisors began to discuss and negotiate a possible transaction with NACCO. Applica
also began to conduct detailed due diligence investigations with respect to business, legal, tax
and other matters.
On May 9, 2006, the Applica board held its annual meeting. Mr. Schulman updated the directors
on the status of the negotiations with NACCO and discussed a projected timeline for a possible
transaction with NACCO. The directors discussed the due diligence process and the need to
undertake extensive due diligence of Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex. Senior management reported to
the directors that Greenberg Traurig P.A., Applicas legal advisor, and an acquisition team from
Deloitte & Touche were assisting Applica in its due diligence investigation. The directors also
discussed strategic alternatives available to Applica in the event that an agreement relating to
the NACCO transaction was not executed, including the proposal by Salton, remaining a stand-alone
organization, selling certain divisions of the company and liquidating the company.
The independent directors on Applicas board met in executive session on May 9, 2006 and
discussed Applicas pursuit of strategic alternatives. At this meeting, the non-management
directors decided to engage Capitalink, L.C. as an independent financial advisor to the Applica
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board to assist the board in its review of strategic alternatives. Capitalink was
subsequently engaged as a financial advisor to the independent members of the board and received a
fixed monthly fee for its services.
On May 17, 2006, Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. filed a Schedule 13D
indicating that it had increased its ownership in Applica to 6,000,000 shares, or 24.7% of the
outstanding shares of Applicas common stock. Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. and
the other reporting persons named therein disclosed in such Schedule 13D that the shares were
acquired for, and being held for, investment purposes and that the acquisitions were made in the
ordinary course of the reporting persons business or investment activities, as the case may be.
On May 18, 2006, the Applica board held a special meeting, which was attended by Applicas
senior management and financial advisor, to discuss the status of negotiations with NACCO and the
exploration of strategic alternatives generally. Various matters with respect to the NACCO merger
were discussed at this meeting, including, among other things, the structure of the proposed
transaction, the status of the due diligence investigations and the proposed dual class common
stock structure.
On May 24, 2006, Applicas senior management and legal and financial advisors attended a
presentation by Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silexs senior management. Following this presentation and
during the remainder of the week, Applica conducted initial due diligence of Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silexs operations. Throughout June, Applicas management and advisors visited
various Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex facilities and conducted diligence reviews. Members of
Applicas management also engaged in extensive conversations with NACCO and Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silex regarding their business and operations.
On June 6, 2006, NACCOs legal advisor provided draft merger documentation to Greenberg
Traurig and, over the next several weeks, the parties and their respective counsel negotiated the
terms of the merger agreement, the spin-off agreement and other transaction documents while due
diligence investigations continued.
Also on June 6, 2006, Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. and the other reporting
persons named therein filed an amended Schedule 13D indicating that they had increased their
ownership in Applica to 7,502,800 shares, or 30.8% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common
stock.
On June 15, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting, which was attended by Applicas senior
management and financial advisor. At the meeting, Applicas senior management provided the
directors with the preliminary results of the due diligence investigation of Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silex and discussed the status of the negotiations with NACCO.
On June 21, 2006, Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. and the other reporting
persons named therein filed an amended Schedule 13D indicating that they had increased their
ownership in Applica to 7,789,100 shares, or 32.0% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common
stock. The reporting persons disclosed in such amended Schedule 13D that the shares
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of Applica had been acquired for investment, and that the reporting persons would evaluate
such investment on a continual basis including, without limitation, for possible synergies with
their other current investments. The reporting persons also reserved the right to contact
Applicas management and members of Applicas board regarding alternatives that Applica could
employ to maximize shareholder value and to act in concert with any other Applica shareholders for
a common purpose, should they decide to do so and/or to recommend courses of action to Applicas
management, the Applica board and Applicas shareholders.
On June 28, 2006, a meeting was held in order to update the board on the progress made to date
with respect to the NACCO merger. Applicas senior management and legal and financial advisors
participated in the meeting, as well as representatives of Capitalink. Senior management and
representatives from Banc of America Securities provided the Applica board with an overview of the
proposed transaction with Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex. The directors, together with Applicas
management and financial advisor, also reviewed the strategic rationale for the NACCO merger.
On July 7, 2006, Mr. Schulman contacted Mr. Rankin to discuss the possible transaction and
tasks that had to be completed. Over the next few weeks, NACCOs and Hamilton
Beach/Proctor-Silexs legal advisors and Greenberg Traurig continued to negotiate definitive
transaction documentation and finalize their respective due diligence reviews.
In mid-July, NACCO requested a change in the proposed dual class structure contemplated for
the combined company. The original transaction provided that in the spin off, each holder of NACCO
Class A common stock would receive a share of Hamilton Beach Class A common stock and each holder
of NACCO Class B common stock would receive a share of Hamilton Beach Class B common stock.
However, as the result of certain provisions of the NACCO Certificate of Incorporation which
required all holders of NACCO shares to receive equal consideration in the spin off, NACCO
requested that the transaction be revised such that each holder of NACCO Class A common stock and
Class B common stock both receive one half of a share of Hamilton Beach Class A common stock and
one half of a share of Hamilton Beach Class B common stock.
In mid-July, a representative of Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. contacted
Applicas financial advisor concerning the exploration of a possible strategic transaction.
However, Applica was unable to reach agreement on the terms of a confidentiality and standstill
agreement and it did not participate in Applicas review of strategic alternatives.
On July 17, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting which was attended by Applicas senior
management and Banc of America Securities, as well as representatives of Capitalink. At this
meeting, Applicas senior management reported on the results of the due diligence investigation and
one of Applicas directors reported on the results of an earlier conversation with Mr. Rankin and
other persons regarding the proposed operation of the newly combined company. Also at this
meeting, Banc of America Securities informed the Applica board members of the modification
requested by NACCO of the dual class structure contemplated for the combined company and discussed
the revised structure with the Applica board. Members of senior management discussed the current
status of negotiations with NACCO and the terms of
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the current drafts of the merger agreement, spin-off agreement and other transaction
documents. Mr. Schulman reported to the directors that Applicas senior management supported the
proposed transaction. After a comprehensive discussion, the directors instructed Banc of America
Securities to request that NACCO enhance the financial terms of the transaction, in an effort to
assure that the proposed terms represented the best value reasonably obtainable, and to confirm
that the amount of the dividend to be paid to NACCO immediately prior to the spin-off and merger
would be limited to $110 million. In connection with this request, Banc of America Securities
subsequently proposed to NACCOs financial advisor the payment of a $25 million dividend to
Applicas shareholders immediately prior to the consummation of the merger. This proposal was
rejected by NACCO.
During the week of July 17, 2006, substantial progress was made in negotiating the terms and
conditions of the merger agreement, spin-off agreement and other transaction documents for the
NACCO merger.
On July 19, 2006, Applica received a letter from Salton reconfirming its interest in a
stock-for-stock merger with Applica. However, the letter did not specify the terms of an offer.
In subsequent conversations with Applicas financial advisor on that same day, Saltons financial
advisor indicated that Salton might consider making a revised proposal that would permit Applicas
shareholders to elect to receive cash instead of Salton common stock. Salton was advised that any
revised proposal should be made as soon as possible. Applica did not receive a revised proposal
from Salton.
Also on July 19, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting, which was attended by Applicas
senior management and legal and financial advisors, as well as representatives of Capitalink, to
discuss in detail the terms of the NACCO merger. Applicas financial advisor updated the directors
with respect to the status of the merger discussions with NACCO and informed the directors that
NACCO had indicated that it was unwilling to modify the financial terms of the merger and would not
pay a dividend to Applicas shareholders, but had confirmed that the dividend to be paid to NACCO
immediately prior to the spin-off and merger would be limited to $110 million. Applicas financial
advisor also informed the directors of the letter that had been received earlier in the day from
Salton and the subsequent discussions with Saltons financial advisor regarding a revised proposal.
The directors proceeded to discuss the terms of the NACCO merger and matters pertaining to Salton.
A lengthy and detailed discussion ensued regarding Salton and the Applica boards initial
rationale for not exploring a potential transaction with Salton at that point in time. Following
extensive discussion, the directors determined that the concerns initially expressed that led to a
decision not to pursue a transaction with Salton remained primarily that the board believed that
it was unlikely that Salton could match or exceed the value believed to be inherent in the NACCO
merger and that no formal response to the letter was necessary, absent receipt of a revised
proposal. The members of senior management then advised the directors on the status of the
negotiations concerning the transaction documents.
On July 21, 2006, the Applica board met to consider the NACCO merger. Applicas senior
management and legal and financial advisors, as well as representatives of Capitalink, attended the
meeting. Senior management reviewed for the directors the course of discussions
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and negotiations with NACCO following the last meeting of the Applica board and summarized the
terms and conditions of the NACCO merger agreement, the regulatory approval process and the
financial and strategic implications of the merger. Also at this meeting, Banc of America
Securities and Capitalink discussed with the Applica board financial aspects of the NACCO merger.
In addition, representatives of Greenberg Traurig discussed the fiduciary obligations of the
directors in connection with their consideration of the proposed merger agreement.
After an extensive discussion of the proposed transaction, the Applica board resolved that the
NACCO merger agreement and the NACCO merger were advisable for, fair to and in the best interest of
Applicas shareholders and voted to approve and adopt the NACCO merger agreement and the NACCO
merger.
Over the next few days, representatives of Applica, Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex and NACCO, as
well as their legal and financial advisors, worked to finalize the transaction documentation. Late
in the evening of July 23, 2006, NACCO, HB-PS Holding Company, Inc., and Applica executed the
merger agreement. On July 24, 2006, prior to the opening of trading on the NYSE, NACCO and Applica
issued a joint press release announcing the NACCO merger.
On July 31, 2006, a representative of Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. contacted
a member of Applicas senior management regarding the merger announcement and expressed
dissatisfaction with the terms of the NACCO merger. The senior executive responded that management
intended to promote acceptance of the NACCO merger and that a proxy statement would be filed
shortly containing additional information about the proposed transaction. He further noted that
Applica would meet with shareholders after the filing of the initial proxy statement to seek
shareholder support for the NACCO merger.
On August 1, 2006, the Applica board held its previously scheduled quarterly meeting to review
Applicas second quarter results. At such meeting, the directors discussed the timeline for the
NACCO merger and employee and customer reactions to the announcement. The Applica board also
discussed Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd.s expressed dissatisfaction with the NACCO
merger.
On August 2, 2006, the Harbinger Funds and certain other persons delivered an Acquiring Person
Statement and an accompanying letter to us pursuant to the Florida Control Share Act. Such persons
sought at Applicas next annual or special shareholders meeting to have restored any voting rights
which may have been lost as a result of the application of the Florida Control Share Act to the
shares of Applicas common stock then owned, or acquired in the future, by the Harbinger Funds and
the other persons named in the Acquiring Person Statement.
On August 3, 2006, the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein filed an
amended Schedule 13D indicating that they had increased their aggregate ownership in Applica to
7,921,200 shares, or 32.55% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock. In addition, the
Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons disclosed that, during the July 31 call with one of
Applicas senior executives described above, the issue of the Florida Control Shares Act was
discussed. Finally, the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons reported that they had
filed the Acquiring Person Statement described above.
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The reporting persons also reserved the right to be in contact with members of Applicas
management, the members of the Applica board, other significant shareholders, NACCOs management
and directors and others regarding alternatives that Applica could employ to maximize shareholder
value. The reporting persons also reserved the right to effect transactions that would change the
number of shares they may be deemed to beneficially own and they also reserved the right to act in
concert with any of Applicas other shareholders, or other persons, for a common purpose should
they determine to do so, and/or to recommend courses of action to Applicas management, Applicas
board and Applicas shareholders.
On August 8, 2006, a representative of Greenberg Traurig had a discussion with counsel for the
Harbinger Funds and acknowledged Applicas receipt of the Acquiring Person Statement. Among other
things discussed, Applicas counsel informed the Harbinger Funds counsel that Applica intended to
include the issue on the agenda at the next special meeting of Applicas shareholders, at which the
NACCO merger would also be considered. The Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named
therein filed an amendment to their Schedule 13D on the same date reflecting their view of such
conversation. The amendment also indicated that the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting
persons named therein had increased their aggregate ownership in Applica to 8,621,100 shares, or
35.20% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock. The reporting persons also reserved
the right to be in contact with members of Applicas management, the members of the Applica board,
other significant shareholders, NACCOs management and directors and others regarding alternatives
that Applica could employ to maximize shareholder value. The reporting persons also reserved the
right to effect transactions that would change the number of shares they may be deemed to
beneficially own and they also reserved the right to act in concert with any of Applicas other
shareholders, or other persons, for a common purpose should they determine to do so, and/or to
recommend courses of action to Applicas management, the Applica board and Applicas shareholders.
On August 9, 2006, Applicas counsel sent a letter to the Harbinger Funds counsel confirming
the conversation of August 8 and clarifying Applicas view of certain matters disclosed in the
amended Schedule 13D filed by the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein on
August 2, including statements by Applicas executive officer regarding the Florida Control Share
Act. The Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein filed the letter on August
11, 2006 as an exhibit to an amendment to their Schedule 13D, which amendment also indicated that
the reporting persons had increased their aggregate ownership in Applica to 9,201,000 shares, or
37.57% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock.
On August 17, 2006, the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein filed an
amendment to their Schedule 13D indicating that they had sent a letter to Applica requesting
inspection of Applicas shareholder list and certain other records and that they had increased
their aggregate ownership in Applica to 9,611,600 shares, or 39.24% of the outstanding shares of
Applicas common stock. Applica provided the Harbinger Funds with a copy of a shareholder list as
of the record date of Applicas 2006 annual meeting of shareholders, which was March 20, 2006.
14
On August 31, 2006, the Applica board met to discuss the disclosures included in the proxy
statement/prospectus/information statement to be filed in connection with the NACCO merger, and the
inclusion of the proposal by the Harbinger Funds and certain other persons under the Florida
Control Share Act for the restoration of voting rights on the agenda of the special shareholders
meeting to be held to consider the NACCO merger.
On September 12, 2006, HB-PS Holding Company, Inc. filed a registration statement on Form S-4
containing a preliminary proxy statement for Applicas special shareholders meeting to consider the
proposal to approve and adopt the NACCO merger, as well as the proposal by the Harbinger Funds and
certain other persons under the Florida Control Share Act.
On the evening of September 13, 2006, a representative of the Harbinger Funds contacted a
member of Applicas senior management team and expressed continued dissatisfaction with the terms
of the NACCO merger following a review of the preliminary proxy statement.
In the morning on September 14, 2006, a representative from the Harbinger Funds contacted a
member of Applicas senior management team and advised such person that Philip Falcone, Senior
Managing Director of the Harbinger Funds, would be contacting Mr. Schulman prior to 9:00 a.m. that
morning. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Falcone initiated a phone call and spoke to Mr. Schulman and two
other members of Applicas senior management. Mr. Falcone indicated that a letter from the
Harbinger Funds to Applica setting forth the Harbinger Funds offer to acquire the shares of
Applicas common stock that they did not currently own for $6.00 per share in cash would shortly be
delivered to Applica and thereafter be released publicly. Upon receipt, Applica provided written
notice to NACCO that Applica had received the unsolicited, bona fide written offer from the
Harbinger Funds. The Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein filed an
amendment to their Schedule 13D indicating that they had made such offer and that they had
increased their aggregate ownership in Applica to 9,830,800 shares, or 40.14% of the outstanding
shares of Applicas common stock, and included a copy of a second Acquiring Person Statement
delivered to Applica by the Harbinger Funds and certain other persons named therein.
Later on September 14, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting to discuss the Harbinger Funds
offer and its obligations under the NACCO merger agreement. The meeting was attended by Applicas
senior management and legal and financial advisors, as well as representatives of Capitalink and
the Applica boards independent legal counsel, Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP. At the meeting, the
Applica board reviewed and discussed the offer from the Harbinger Funds with management and the
legal and financial advisors. The Applica board also discussed with the legal advisors the
provisions of the NACCO merger agreement relating to competing transactions. After consultation
with the legal and financial advisors, the Applica board determined that there was a reasonable
likelihood that the Harbinger Funds offer would constitute a superior proposal (as defined in the
NACCO merger agreement). After further consultation with the legal advisors, the Applica board
also determined that it was required by its fiduciary duties to engage in discussions and
negotiations with the Harbinger Funds in response to their offer. The Applica board then
authorized senior management, subject to Applicas compliance with the terms of the NACCO merger
agreement, to negotiate and enter into a confidentiality agreement with the Harbinger Funds and to thereafter engage in discussions and
negotiations with them.
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On September 15, Greenberg Traurig notified NACCOs legal advisor in writing that the Applica
board had determined that there was a reasonable likelihood that the Harbinger Funds offer would
constitute a superior proposal (as defined in the NACCO merger agreement).
Over the next few days, members of Applicas senior management and representatives of
Greenberg Traurig negotiated a confidentiality agreement with the Harbinger Funds and their legal
advisor, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, which was executed on September 21, 2006. A
copy of such agreement was provided to NACCOs counsel later that day. Thereafter, the Harbinger
Funds and their legal and financial representatives commenced detailed due diligence on Applica and
Applica commenced due diligence on the ability of the Harbinger Funds to pay the merger
consideration. Over the next few weeks, members of senior management and Applicas legal and
financial advisors met with, and Applica responded to due diligence questions from, Harbinger and
its legal and financial advisors.
On September 22, 2006, the Harbinger Funds and the other reporting persons named therein filed
an amendment to their Schedule 13D including a copy of the confidentiality agreement.
On October 4, 2006, Paul Weiss provided a draft merger agreement to Applica and Greenberg
Traurig and, over the next few days, the parties and their respective counsel negotiated the terms
of the merger agreement while due diligence investigations continued.
On October 9, 2006, the Applica board met to review the terms of the merger agreement.
Applicas senior management and legal and financial advisors, as well as representatives of
Capitalink, attended the meeting. Senior management reviewed with the directors the course of
discussions and negotiations with the Harbinger Funds following the last meeting of the Applica
board and summarized the terms and conditions of the proposed merger agreement, the regulatory
approval process and the financial and strategic implications of the merger. Also at this meeting,
Banc of America Securities and Capitalink discussed with the Applica board financial aspects of the
merger. The Applica board members also discussed financial aspects and terms of the NACCO merger
with senior management and the legal and financial advisors, and compared the two transactions.
Applicas legal advisor also discussed with the Applica board the contractual requirements in the
NACCO merger agreement that needed to be followed by Applica in accepting a superior proposal (as
defined in the NACCO merger agreement).
On October 10, 2006, the Applica board met again with senior management and Applicas legal
and financial advisors and the independent directors legal and financial advisors. At this
meeting, the Applica board reviewed and discussed the terms of the proposed merger agreement with
senior management and the legal and financial advisors and determined that the Harbinger Funds
offer, as further reflected in the proposed merger agreement, constituted a superior proposal (as
defined in the NACCO merger agreement). The Applica board further determined that Applica should
provide NACCO with notice as to Applicas intent to terminate the NACCO merger agreement in order
to enter into an agreement with Harbinger with respect to its superior proposal if all of the conditions for terminating the NACCO merger agreement
were satisfied.
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Following the meeting, Mr. Schulman provided NACCO with written notice of the boards
intention to terminate the NACCO merger agreement in four business days pursuant to the terms of
such agreement. The notice included a copy of the proposed merger agreement.
On October 11, 2006, representatives of Greenberg Traurig had conversations with NACCOs legal
representatives in which NACCO alleged that Applica had not complied with certain of the
requirements of the NACCO merger agreement relating to a competing transaction. Applica strongly
disagreed with this assertion. However, to attempt to satisfy NACCOs stated concerns, on October
12, 2006, Harbinger provided Applica with a letter confirming their offer to enter into the
proposed merger agreement. On October 12, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting to review such
letter. Applicas senior management and legal advisors, as well as representatives of the
independent directors legal and financial advisors, attended the meeting. At the meeting, the
Applica board reconfirmed (i) that the offer constituted a superior proposal (as defined in the
NACCO merger agreement) and (ii) its current intent to terminate the NACCO merger agreement if all
of the conditions for terminating the NACCO merger agreement were satisfied. The Applica board
discussed NACCOs allegations with the legal advisors and, although it believed in good faith that
Applica had properly complied with all requirements under the NACCO merger agreement, the Applica
board agreed to re-notify NACCO of its conclusions and provide NACCO with a new four business day
period in which to propose changes to the terms of the NACCO merger and the NACCO merger agreement.
Applica provided NACCO with written notification of such matters on October 12, 2006 and informed
NACCO that Applica was available to engage in good faith negotiations with respect to such changes
as NACCO and HB-PS Holding Company, Inc. may propose to the terms of the NACCO merger agreement.
At no time did NACCO or HB-PS Holding Company, Inc. propose to modify the terms of the NACCO merger
agreement.
On the morning of October 19, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting, in which members of
senior management and Applicas legal and financial advisors, as well as the independent directors
legal and financial advisors, participated. At the meeting:
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senior management reviewed for the directors the course of discussions and
negotiations with the Harbinger Funds following the last meeting; |
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the Applica board reviewed the terms of the merger agreement with Applicas
legal and financial advisors and the independent directors legal and financial
advisors; |
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the Applica board noted that at no time did NACCO or HB-PS Holding Company, Inc.
propose to modify the terms of the NACCO merger agreement; |
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Banc of America Securities reviewed with the Applica board its financial
analysis of the $6.00 per share merger consideration and delivered an oral opinion,
which was confirmed by delivery of a written opinion, dated October 19, 2006, to
the |
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effect that, as of that date and based on and subject to various assumptions and
limitations described in its opinion, the $6.00 per share merger consideration to be
received by holders of Applicas common stock, other than Harbinger and its
affiliates, pursuant to the merger agreement was fair, from a financial point of
view, to such holders;
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Capitalink provided the Applica board with their observations regarding the
proposed transaction and the financial analyses performed by Banc of America
Securities and advised the directors that they believed that the financial analyses
performed by, and the conclusion of, Banc of America Securities appeared to be
reasonable; |
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the directors discussed the potential interests of certain of Applicas officers
and directors in the proposed transaction that were different from Applicas
shareholders generally; |
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the Applica board determined that the Harbinger Funds offer remained a superior
proposal (as defined in the NACCO merger agreement) following the expiration of a
period during which NACCO could propose changes to the NACCO merger agreement of
which was in excess of that required by the NACCO merger agreement, and that
terminating the NACCO merger agreement was reasonably required by the Applica
boards fiduciary obligations under applicable law; and |
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the Applica board approved the termination of the NACCO merger agreement and the
payment of the termination fee and termination expenses to NACCO under the NACCO
merger agreement. |
After lengthy discussions and a thorough review with senior management and the legal and
financial advisors, the Applica board determined that the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated by the merger agreement, including the merger, were advisable for, fair to and in the
best interest of Applicas shareholders (other than Harbinger and its affiliates) and voted to
approve and adopt the merger agreement and the merger.
Following the meeting, Applica provided NACCO with written notice of the termination and paid
to NACCO a termination fee and expense reimbursement of $6 million pursuant to the terms of the
NACCO merger agreement. After payment of such fees and expenses and delivery of the notice of
termination, Applica executed the Harbinger merger agreement and thereafter issued a press release
announcing the termination of the NACCO merger agreement and the execution of the merger agreement
with Harbinger.
Late in the evening of December 13, 2006, Applica received a letter from NACCO offering to
acquire Applicas common stock for $6.50 per share in cash (and on December 15, 2006, NACCO
publicly announced that, through a subsidiary, it had commenced a tender offer to purchase all of
Applicas outstanding common stock at an offer price of $6.50 per share). In accordance with the
terms of the merger agreement, Applica promptly notified Harbinger on December 14, 2006 of
Applicas receipt of the offer from NACCO.
18
Subsequently, on December 14, 2006, Harbinger submitted to Applica a definitive binding offer
to enter into an amendment to its merger agreement that provides for Applicas shareholders to
receive $6.50 in cash per share if the Harbinger merger is completed. The Applica board held a
meeting that same day and discussed the offers from NACCO and Harbinger and its obligations under
the Harbinger merger agreement. The meeting was attended by Applicas senior management and legal
and financial advisors, as well as a representative of the Applica boards independent legal
counsel. The Applica board discussed with the legal advisors the provisions of the Harbinger
merger agreement relating to competing transactions.
At the meeting, the Applica board reviewed and discussed the offers from NACCO and Harbinger
with management and the legal and financial advisors and unanimously determined on December 14,
2006 that the merger agreement, as amended, is at least as favorable to Applicas shareholders as
the offer made by NACCO. After lengthy discussions and a thorough review with management and the
legal and financial advisors, the Applica board also unanimously determined that the merger
agreement, as amended, is advisable for, fair to and in the best interests of Applicas
shareholders (other than Harbinger and its affiliates) and voted to approve and adopt, and
authorized senior management to enter into, the amendment proposed by Harbinger. On December 14,
2006, Applica executed Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement and Plan of Merger with Harbinger and
thereafter issued a press release announcing the amendment. On December 15, 2006, Applica filed
with the SEC a supplement to the Harbinger merger proxy statement that describes, among other
things, the amendment to the Harbinger merger agreement.
On December 15, 2006, Greenberg Traurig sent a letter to NACCO on Applicas behalf informing
NACCO of Harbingers increase to $6.50 of its per share purchase price and the Applica boards
determination that the Harbinger merger agreement, as amended, is at least as favorable to
Applicas shareholders as the NACCO offer.
Also on December 15, 2006, NACCO and NACCO Sub filed the Schedule TO with the SEC and
delivered a request pursuant to Rule 14d-5, purportedly commencing the NACCO offer.
On December 18, 2006, the Applica board held a meeting during which it reviewed and discussed
the terms and conditions of the NACCO offer set forth in the Schedule TO with management and the
legal and financial advisors. After careful consideration, the Applica board determined at such
meeting to recommend that Applicas shareholders reject the NACCO offer and not tender
their shares in the NACCO offer.
(c) Reasons for the Recommendation.
In evaluating NACCOs offer, the Applica board consulted with Applicas management and legal
and financial advisors and, in reaching its determination to recommend that Applicas shareholders
reject the NACCO offer, the Applica board considered, among other things, the following material
factors and information:
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No Premium. The $6.50 per share offer price of the NACCO offer does not offer any
premium over the per share price, which is also $6.50, set forth in the Harbinger merger
agreement, as amended on December 14, 2006. |
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Harbinger Agreement at Least as Favorable. After consultation with its legal and
financial advisors, the Applica board determined in accordance with the Harbinger
merger agreement, that the Harbinger merger agreement, as amended, is at least as
favorable to Applicas shareholders as the NACCO offer. |
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NACCO Offer is Highly Conditional. The NACCO offer is highly conditional and
includes extensive broadly drafted and subjective conditions that could provide
significant obstacles to completion of the NACCO offer or the other aspects of the
NACCO merger and result in uncertainty that the NACCO offer will be consummated.
Unlike the closing conditions contained in the Harbinger merger agreement, NACCO Sub,
within its reasonable discretion, has the ability to determine whether certain of the
closing conditions to the NACCO offer have been satisfied. In addition, there are many
conditions precedent to the NACCO offer that are either not conditions precedent to the
Harbinger merger or are broader in scope than similar closing conditions contained in
the Harbinger merger agreement, including, among others: |
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Minimum Condition. Applicas shareholders shall have validly tendered and
not properly withdrawn prior to the expiration of the NACCO offer a number of
shares of common stock that constitute a majority of the outstanding shares of
Applicas common stock, calculated on a fully diluted basis as of the date the
shares are accepted for payment pursuant to the NACCO offer. |
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Takeover Statute Condition. The Applica board shall have irrevocably taken
all action necessary to render sections 607.0901 and 607.0902 of the FBCA
inapplicable to NACCO Sub. |
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Recommendation Condition. The Applica board shall have recommended that
Applicas shareholders accept the NACCO offer and tender their shares in the
NACCO offer. |
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Termination of Harbinger Merger Condition. The Harbinger merger agreement
shall have been terminated, or a court of competent jurisdiction shall have
entered an order satisfactory to NACCO Sub that the Harbinger merger agreement
is not legally valid and binding on the parties thereto. |
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No Adverse Change Condition. No change shall have occurred or be threatened
in the business, properties, assets, liabilities, capitalization, shareholders
equity, condition (financial or otherwise), cash flows, licenses, franchises,
permits, authorizations, operations, results of operations or prospects of
Applica that NACCO Sub determines in good faith has or might reasonably be
expected to have a material adverse effect on Applica, or results or might
reasonably be expected to result in a material diminution in the value |
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of Applicas common stock or the benefits expected to be derived by NACCO Sub as
a result of the transactions contemplated by the NACCO offer or the NACCO
merger.
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No Action Condition. There shall not have been any statute, rule,
regulation, law, order or injunction or any action, proceeding, application,
claim or counterclaim or any judgment, ruling, or injunction or any other
action taken, promulgated, enacted, entered, enforced, issued or amended by any
government authority that is applicable to NACCO, NACCO Sub, Applica, the NACCO
offer or the NACCO merger that (i) makes the acceptance for payment of, or
payment for or purchase of some or all of the shares of Applicas common stock
illegal, (ii) imposes material limitations on the ability of NACCO, NACCO Sub
or any of their respective subsidiaries to acquire or hold, transfer or dispose
of, or effectively to exercise all rights of ownership of, some or all of the
shares of Applicas common stock, (iii) imposes any limitations on the ability
of NACCO or NACCO Sub or any of their respective affiliates effectively to
control the business or operations of Applica, NACCO, NACCO Sub or any of their
respective subsidiaries, (iv) otherwise prohibits the NACCO offer or the NACCO
merger, (v) seeks to require divestiture by NACCO Sub (or any affiliate of
NACCO) of any or all of the shares of Applicas common stock, (vi) otherwise
has or NACCO Sub determines in good faith might reasonably be expected to have
an adverse effect, or results or might reasonably be expected to result in a
diminution in value, or (vii) seeks to impose any condition to the NACCO
offer unacceptable to NACCO Sub. |
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No Unusual Event Condition. There shall not have occurred (i) any general
suspension of trading in, or limitation on times or prices for, securities on
any United States national securities exchange, or in the over-the-counter
market, (ii) any extraordinary or material adverse change in the United States
financial markets generally, including without limitation, a decline of at
least 20% in either the Dow Jones average of industrial stocks or the Standard
& Poors 500 index from December 14, 2006, (iii) any declaration of a banking
moratorium or any suspension of payments in respect of banks in the United
States, (iv) any material limitation by any governmental entity or any court
that materially affects the extension of credit generally by lenders that
regularly participate in the United States market in loans, (v) any
commencement or escalation of war, terrorist acts, armed hostilities or other
national or international calamity, directly or indirectly, involving the
United States, (vi) a suspension of, or limitation (whether or not mandatory)
on, the currency exchange markets or the imposition of, or material changes in,
any currency or exchange control laws in the United States, or (vii) in the
case of any of the foregoing occurrences existing on or at the time of the
commencement of the NACCO offer, a material acceleration or worsening thereof. |
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No Change in Capital Structure Condition. Applica shall not have (i)
issued, distributed, pledged, sold or authorized, or proposed the issuance of
or distribution, pledge or sale to any person of any (A) shares of its capital
stock pursuant to employee stock options outstanding on November 27, 2006 of
any class or securities convertible into or exchangeable for any such shares of
capital stock, or any rights, warrants or options to acquire any such shares or
convertible securities or any other securities of Applica, (B) other securities
in respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for shares of Applicas common
stock outstanding on November 27, 2006, or (C) debt securities or any
securities convertible into or exchangeable for debt securities or any rights,
warrants or options entitling the holder thereof to purchase or otherwise
acquire any debt securities, (ii) purchased or otherwise acquired, or proposed
or offered to purchase or otherwise acquire, any outstanding shares of
Applicas common stock or other securities, (iii) proposed, recommended,
authorized, declared, issued or paid any dividend or distribution on any shares
or any other security, whether payable in cash, securities or other property,
(iv) altered or proposed to alter any material term of any outstanding
security, (v) incurred, agreed to incur or announced its intention to incur,
any debt other than in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past
practice, (vi) authorized, recommended, proposed or publicly announced its
intent to enter into any merger, consolidation, liquidation, dissolution,
business combination, acquisition or disposition of assets or securities other
than in the ordinary course of business, any material change in its
capitalization or business operations, any release or relinquishment of any
material contractual or other rights or any comparable event, or taken any
action to implement any such transaction previously authorized, recommended,
proposed or publicly announced, or (vii) entered into or amended any other
agreement or otherwise effected any other arrangement with any other party or
with its officers or other employees of Applica that NACCO Sub determines in
good faith might, individually or in the aggregate, have an adverse effect or
result in a diminution in value. |
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No Extraordinary Transaction Condition. A tender or exchange offer for some
portion or all of the shares of Applicas common stock shall not have been
commenced or publicly proposed to be made by another person, and it must not
have been publicly disclosed or NACCO Sub must have learned that (i) any person
has acquired or proposed to acquire more than five percent of the outstanding
shares of Applicas common stock, or has been granted any option or right,
conditional or otherwise, to acquire more than five percent of the outstanding
shares of Applicas common stock, other than acquisitions for bona fide
arbitrage purposes and other than acquisitions by persons or groups who have
publicly disclosed in a Schedule 13D or 13G such ownership on or prior to
December 14, 2006, (ii) any such person who has publicly disclosed any such
ownership of more than five percent of the outstanding shares of Applicas
common stock prior to such date has acquired or proposed to acquire additional
shares constituting more than one percent of the |
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outstanding shares of Applicas common stock, or has been granted any option or
right to acquire more than one percent of the outstanding shares of Applicas
common stock, (iii) any such person has entered into a definitive agreement or
an agreement in principle, in each case, other than the existing Harbinger
merger agreement, as in effect on December 14, 2006 or made a proposal with
respect to a tender offer or exchange offer for some portion or all of the
outstanding shares of Applicas common stock or a merger, consolidation or other
business combination or sale of assets with or involving Applica, or (iv) any
person, other than Harbinger, in connection with the existing Harbinger merger
agreement, has filed a Notification and Report Form under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvement Act of 1976, as amended, or made a public announcement
reflecting an intent to acquire Applica or assets or securities of Applica. |
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Global Markets Condition. No change shall have occurred or be threatened in
the general economic, financial, currency exchange or market conditions in the
United States or abroad that Applica determines in good faith has or might have
an adverse effect or results or might result in a diminution in value. |
The Harbinger merger agreement does not contain closing conditions analogous to the
Minimum Condition, the Takeover Statute Condition, the No Unusual Event Condition, the
No Change in Capital Structure Condition, the No Extraordinary Transaction Condition or
the Global Markets Condition. In addition, the No Adverse Change Condition (due in part
to the lack of standard carve-outs) and the No Action Condition are significantly
broader and more general than their more narrowly tailored counterparts in the Harbinger
merger agreement. The broad range and scope of the NACCO offer closing conditions
create uncertainty regarding whether NACCO will elect to consummate the NACCO offer
given that any number of otherwise insignificant events or circumstances could be deemed
by NACCO to cause any one of these conditions to not be satisfied. This is especially
true of the No Unusual Event Condition, which, among other things, requires as a
condition to the NACCO offer that no commencement or escalation of war, terrorist acts,
armed hostilities or other national or international calamity, directly or indirectly,
involving the United States will have occurred.
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Restrictions Imposed by Harbinger Merger Agreement. Given certain provisions
contained in the Harbinger merger agreement, it is not possible to satisfy various
closing conditions to the NACCO offer at this time. |
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The Recommendation Condition is not capable of being satisfied. The Applica
board does not intend to change its recommendation that Applicas shareholders
reject the NACCO offer and not tender their shares of Applicas common
stock in the NACCO offer. If the Applica board modifies or withdraws its
recommendation that Applicas shareholders vote for the Harbinger merger,
Applica must pay APN Mergersub, Inc., or Harbinger |
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Buyer, a fee equal to $4.0 million plus up to $2.0 million of reasonable,
documented, third party, out-of-pocket expenses.
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The Termination of Harbinger Merger Condition is not capable of being
satisfied. The terms of the Harbinger merger agreement prohibit Applica from
terminating such agreement to accept a competing proposal that is not a
superior proposal. |
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Conditional Financing. Although the NACCO offer is not subject to a financing
closing condition, it is uncertain whether NACCO Sub will have access to sufficient
cash to complete the NACCO offer. According to the Schedule TO, NACCO Sub, a newly
created shell company apparently having no assets, will require approximately
$162,500,644, plus any related transaction fees and expenses, to complete the NACCO
offer. The Schedule TO further states that NACCO Sub will rely on two senior credit
facilities to finance completion of the NACCO offer. According to the Schedule TO,
NACCO Sub and certain of its affiliates as additional borrowers and certain of its
affiliates as guarantors have obtained commitments from certain lenders to provide
senior bank financing. Borrowings under the senior credit facilities are subject to
various conditions. As copies of the commitment letters were not provided in the
Schedule TO, the Applica board does not know the identity of the potential lenders, and
it is uncertain whether NACCO Sub will have access to the senior credit facilities in
time to consummate the NACCO offer. Even if NACCO Sub closes on the senior credit
facilities, it is uncertain whether all of the conditions precedent to draw downs will
be met. With respect to the Harbinger merger, the Harbinger Buyer received equity
funding letters from the Harbinger Funds, that, subject to the conditions therein,
provide for an aggregate amount of up to $275 million of equity financing for
completion of the merger, including the approximately $97 million required to pay the
merger consideration. Copies of the equity funding letters are attached as Annexes C1
and C2 to the Harbinger merger proxy statement. |
Given (i) the equal $6.50 price per share in cash being offered in each of the NACCO offer and
the Harbinger merger agreement, as amended, (ii) the Applica board has determined that the
Harbinger merger agreement, as amended, is at least as favorable as the NACCO offer, (iii) the
uncertainty as to whether the conditions precedent to the NACCO offer can be satisfied, (iv) the
risks to Applica associated with terminating the Harbinger merger agreement or the Applica board
changing its recommendation of the Harbinger merger agreement and (v) the questions surrounding
NACCO Subs access to sufficient cash to consummate the NACCO offer, the Applica board believes it
serves the interests of Applicas shareholders to reject the NACCO offer.
In light of the above factors, the Applica board determined that the NACCO offer is not in the
best interests of Applica and Applicas shareholders. Accordingly, the Applica board recommends
that Applicas shareholders reject the NACCO offer and not tender their shares pursuant to
the NACCO offer.
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The preceding discussion of the information and factors considered by the Applica board
includes all material factors and information considered by the Applica board in making its
recommendation, but is not, and is not intended to be, exhaustive. In light of the
variety of factors considered in connection with its evaluation of the NACCO offer and the
complexity of these matters, the Applica board did not find it practicable to, and did not,
quantify or otherwise attempt to assign relative weights to the various factors considered in
reaching its determination, and individual directors may have given different weight to different
factors.
The Applica board reserves the right to revise this recommendation in the event of changed
circumstances, if any. Any such change in the recommendation of the Applica board will be
communicated to shareholders as promptly as practicable in the event that such a determination is
reached.
(d) Intent to Tender.
To Applicas current knowledge, none of Applicas executive officers, directors, affiliates or
subsidiaries currently intends to sell or tender for purchase pursuant to the NACCO offer any
shares of Applicas common stock owned of record or beneficially owned.
Item 5. Person/Assets, Retained, Employed, Compensated or Used.
Applica has engaged Georgeson Inc. to, among other things, assist in connection with Applicas
communications with its shareholders with respect to the NACCO offer and will pay Georgeson a fee
of up to $66,500, plus reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses for its services.
Except as set forth above, neither Applica nor any person acting on its behalf has or
currently intends to employ, retain or compensate any person to make solicitations or
recommendations to the shareholders of Applica on its behalf with respect to the NACCO offer.
Item 6. Interest in Securities of the Subject Company.
During the past 60 days, no transactions with respect to shares of Applicas common stock have
been effected by Applica or, to Applicas best knowledge, by any of its executive officers,
directors, affiliates or subsidiaries.
Item 7. Purposes of the Transaction and Plans or Proposals.
As discussed elsewhere in this Statement and in the Harbinger merger proxy statement, Applica
is presently party to the Harbinger merger agreement. Unless and until the Harbinger merger
agreement is terminated, Applica has agreed to immediately cease, terminate and discontinue any
discussions or negotiations with any person conducted before the date of the Harbinger merger
agreement with respect to any competing transaction, which is defined to include any merger,
consolidation, share exchange, business combination or other transaction or series of transactions
involving Applica. Applica has also agreed that it would request the return or destruction of all
confidential information provided by Applica or on Applicas behalf to all persons who have had
such negotiations or discussions or who have entered into confidentiality agreements with Applica
pertaining to a competing transaction. Applica has also agreed that it will not, and will cause
its affiliates and representatives not to, directly or indirectly, solicit,
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initiate or encourage any inquiries or proposals from, discuss or negotiate with, or provide
any non-public information to, any person relating to any competing transaction. Applica must
promptly (and in any event within 24 hours) notify APN Holding Company Inc., or Harbinger Buyer, of
any receipt of any inquiry or proposal (and the terms thereof) relating to a competing transaction.
Applica is permitted to engage in discussions or negotiations with, or provide information to,
any person in response to an unsolicited bona fide written offer regarding a competing transaction
only if all of the following conditions exist:
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Applicas shareholders have not yet approved the Harbinger merger; |
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the Applica board received an unsolicited bona fide written offer regarding a
competing transaction from a third party (which has not been withdrawn) and the board
determines in good faith that there is a reasonable likelihood that such competing
transaction would constitute a superior proposal; |
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the Applica board, after consultation with its outside counsel, determines in good
faith that such action is required by its fiduciary duties; |
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prior to providing any information or data to any person in connection with such
competing transaction by any such person, Applica receives from such person an executed
confidentiality agreement containing terms Applica determines to be substantially
similar as the confidentiality agreement entered into with Harbinger Buyer (but
permitting certain disclosures to Harbinger Buyer and its affiliates relating to the
name of the bidder and the terms of the offer); and |
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prior to providing any information or data to any person or entering into
discussions or negotiations with any person, Applica promptly notify Harbinger Buyer of
such competing transaction in accordance with the Harbinger merger agreement. |
The Harbinger merger agreement provides that it may be terminated by the parties and, in
certain circumstances, may require a termination fee to be paid by one party to the other.
Specifically, the Harbinger merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the completion of
the Harbinger merger:
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by mutual written consent of Harbinger Buyer and Applica; |
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by Applica (provided it is not then in material breach of any covenant or in breach
of any representation or warranty or other agreement) if: |
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Harbinger Buyer or APN Mergersub, Inc. (which is referred to in this
Statement as Harbinger Sub) breaches any of their respective representations,
warranties, covenants or agreements under the Harbinger merger agreement or any
such representation and warranty has become untrue, in either case such that
certain conditions to closing are incapable of being satisfied, and such breach
or condition either by its terms cannot be cured or if reasonably
capable of being cured has not been cured within 30 calendar days following
receipt by Harbinger Buyer of notice of such breach; or |
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Applica represents to Harbinger Buyer in writing that it has a bona fide
good faith belief that the Harbinger Funds will not have sufficient cash on
hand or capital commitments to satisfy their respective obligations under the
equity funding letters on the anticipated closing of the Harbinger merger
agreement, and Applica requests from Harbinger Buyer evidence reasonably
satisfactory to it that the Harbinger Funds will have sufficient cash on hand
or capital commitments to satisfy their respective obligations under the equity
funding letters on the anticipated closing of the Harbinger merger agreement,
and within 30 calendar days following Harbinger Buyers receipt of such
request, Applica does not receive from Harbinger Buyer evidence reasonably
satisfactory to it that the Harbinger Funds will have sufficient cash on hand
or capital commitments to satisfy their respective obligations under the equity
funding letters on the anticipated closing of the Harbinger merger agreement; |
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by Harbinger Buyer (provided neither Harbinger Buyer nor Harbinger Sub is then in
material breach of any covenant or in breach of any representation or warranty or other
agreement) if there has been a breach by Applica of any of its representations,
warranties, covenants or agreements under the merger agreement or any such
representation and warranty has become untrue, in either case such that certain
conditions to closing are incapable of being satisfied, and such breach or condition
either by its terms cannot be cured or if reasonably capable of being cured has not
been cured within 30 calendar days following receipt by Applica of notice of such
breach; |
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by either Harbinger Buyer or Applica if any order preventing or prohibiting
consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Harbinger merger agreement has
become final and non-appealable; |
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by either Harbinger Buyer or Applica if the Harbinger merger is not completed by May
1, 2007; |
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by either Harbinger Buyer or Applica if their respective shareholders do not approve
the Harbinger merger at the special meeting; |
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by Harbinger Buyer if the Applica board modifies, withdraws or fails to confirm its
recommendation that Applicas shareholders vote in favor of adopting the Harbinger
merger agreement within four business days after Harbinger Buyers request to do so; |
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by Applica if the Applica board authorizes it, subject to complying with the terms
of the Harbinger merger agreement, to enter into a written agreement with respect to a
competing transaction proposal regarding a transaction that, if consummated, would
result in a transaction more favorable to Applicas shareholders than the Harbinger
merger, provided that Applica shall have, among other things: |
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not solicited, initiated or encouraged a competing transaction; |
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requested the return or destruction of all confidential information provided
by or on behalf of Applica to all persons (including NACCO and its affiliates)
who have had discussions or negotiations or who have entered into
confidentiality agreements with Applica pertaining to a competing transaction; |
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promptly notified Harbinger Buyer of its or any of its officers, directors
or representatives receipt of any inquiry or proposal relating to, a competing
transaction; |
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given Harbinger Buyer and Harbinger Sub at least four business days prior
written notice of its intention to terminate the merger agreement, attaching a
description of all material terms and conditions of such competing transaction; |
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engaged in good faith negotiations with Harbinger Buyer and Harbinger Sub
during the above mentioned four business day notice period with respect to such
changes as Harbinger Buyer and Harbinger Sub may propose to the terms of merger
and the merger agreement; |
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had the Applica board determine in good faith, after the Applica board has
consulted with its legal and financial advisors, that Harbinger Buyer and
Harbinger Sub have not made a definitive, binding offer which is at least as
favorable to Applicas shareholders as the competing transaction; and |
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paid a termination fee in the amount of $4.0 million plus up to $2.0 million
of reasonable, documented, third party, out of pocket expenses. |
Applica must pay Harbinger Buyer a fee equal to $4.0 million plus up to $2.0 million of
reasonable, documented, third party, out-of-pocket expenses if the Harbinger merger agreement is
terminated:
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by Applica or Harbinger Buyer if (i) the Harbinger merger is not completed by May 1,
2007 (unless the failure of the merger to have occurred by such date is due to the
failure of Harbinger Buyer or Harbinger Sub to perform in all material respects their
respective covenants and agreements) or (ii) Applica shareholder approval is not
received at the special meeting and before such termination Applica has received a
competing transaction proposal that has not been withdrawn, and within nine months
Applica enters into an agreement to complete or completes a competing transaction; or |
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by Harbinger Buyer if the Applica board modifies or withdraws its recommendation
that Applicas shareholders vote for the Harbinger merger or fails to confirm the
recommendation within four days of Harbinger Buyers request to do so; or |
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by Applica if Applica terminates the merger agreement because the Applica board
authorizes Applica, subject to complying with the terms of the Harbinger merger
agreement, to enter into a superior proposal. |
Except as set forth in the Harbinger merger proxy statement and as set forth in this
Statement, Applica is not undertaking or engaged in any negotiations in response to the NACCO offer
that relate to: (i) a tender offer or other acquisition of Applicas securities by Applica, any of
its subsidiaries or any other person; (ii) any extraordinary transaction, such as a merger,
reorganization or liquidation, involving Applica or any of its subsidiaries; (iii) any purchase,
sale or transfer of a material amount of assets of Applica or any of its subsidiaries; or (iv) any
material change in the present dividend rate or policy, indebtedness or capitalization of Applica.
Except as set forth in the Harbinger merger proxy statement and as set forth in this
Statement, there are no transactions, board resolutions, agreements in principle or signed
contracts entered into in response to the NACCO offer that relate to or would result in one or more
of the matters referred to in this Item 7.
Item 8. Additional Information.
The information contained in all of the Exhibits referred to in Item 9 below is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
(a) Legal Matters.
Affiliated Transactions Statute
Because Applica is incorporated under the laws of the State of Florida, Applica is subject to
Section 607.0901, or the affiliated transactions statute, of the FBCA. The affiliated
transactions statute generally prohibits a Florida corporation from engaging in an affiliated
transaction with an interested shareholder, unless the affiliated transaction is approved by a
majority of the disinterested directors or by the affirmative vote of the holders of two-thirds of
the voting shares other than the shares beneficially owned by the interested shareholder, the
corporation has not had more than 300 shareholders of record at any time for three years prior to
the public announcement relating to the affiliated transaction or the corporation complies with
certain statutory fair price provisions.
Subject to certain exceptions, under the FBCA an interested shareholder is a person who
beneficially owns more than 10% of the corporations outstanding voting shares. In general terms,
an affiliated transaction includes: (i) any merger or consolidation with an interested
shareholder; (ii) the transfer to any interested shareholder of corporate assets with a fair market
value equal to 5% or more of the corporations consolidated assets or outstanding shares or
representing 5% or more of the corporations earning power on net income; (iii) the issuance to any
interested shareholder of shares with a fair market value equal to 5% or more of the aggregate fair
market value of all outstanding shares of the corporation; (iv) any reclassification of securities
or corporate reorganization that will have the effect of increasing by more than 5% the percentage
of the corporations outstanding voting shares beneficially owned by any interested shareholder;
(v) the liquidation or dissolution of the corporation if proposed by any
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interested shareholder; and (vi) any receipt by the interested shareholder of the benefit of
any loans, advances, guaranties, pledges or other financial assistance or any tax credits or other
tax advantages provided by or through the corporation.
The NACCO offer is conditioned upon, among other things, the Applica board irrevocably taking
all action necessary to render Section 607.0901 of the FBCA inapplicable to NACCO Sub, the
acquisition by NACCO Sub of the Applicas outstanding shares of common stock pursuant to the NACCO
offer and the NACCO merger. If such approval is obtained, neither NACCO Sub nor NACCO, nor their
respective affiliates, would be considered interested shareholders for purposes of Section
607.0901 of the FBCA. The Applica board does not currently anticipate taking such action.
Control Share Acquisition Statute
Applica is also subject to Section 607.0902, or the control share acquisition statute, of
the FBCA. The control share acquisition statute provides that shares of publicly held Florida
corporations that are acquired in a control share acquisition generally will have no voting
rights unless such rights are conferred on those shares by the vote of the holders of a majority of
all the outstanding shares other than interested shares. A control share acquisition is defined,
with certain exceptions, as the acquisition of the ownership of voting shares which would cause the
acquiror to have voting power within the following ranges or to move upward from one range into
another: (i) 20%, but less than 33 1/3%; (ii) 33 1/3%, but less than 50%; or (iii) 50% or more of
such votes.
The control share acquisition statute does not apply to an acquisition of shares of a publicly
held Florida corporation (i) pursuant to a merger or share exchange effected in compliance with the
FBCA if the publicly held Florida corporation is a party to the merger or share exchange agreement,
or (ii) if such acquisition has been approved by the board of directors of that corporation before
the acquisition.
The NACCO offer is conditioned upon, among other things, the Applica board irrevocably taking
all action necessary to render Section 607.0902 of the FBCA inapplicable to NACCO Sub, the
acquisition by NACCO Sub of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock pursuant to the NACCO
offer and the NACCO merger and irrevocably resolving to elect, to the extent permitted by law, not
to be subject to any other moratorium, control share acquisition, business combination, fair
price, interested stockholder or other form of anti-takeover law or regulation. If such
approval is obtained, and all shares acquired pursuant to the NACCO offer will have full voting
rights notwithstanding Section 607.0902 of the FBCA. The Applica board does not currently
anticipate taking such action.
Short-Form
The FBCA provides generally that, if a parent corporation owns at least 80% of the outstanding
shares of each class of a subsidiary corporation, the parent corporation may merge into the
subsidiary corporation by a plan of merger adopted by the board of directors of the parent
corporation and the appropriate filings with the Florida Department of State, without the
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approval of the shareholders of the subsidiary corporation. In accordance with the FBCA, if
NACCO Sub acquires at least 80% of the outstanding shares of Applicas common stock, NACCO Sub will
be able to effect the NACCO merger without a vote of Applicas board or other shareholders of
Applica.
Appraisal Rights
Holders of shares of Applicas common stock do not have appraisal rights as a result of the
NACCO offer. However, if the NACCO merger is consummated, holders of shares of Applicas common
stock may have certain rights pursuant to the provisions of Sections 607.1301 through 607.1333 of
the FBCA to dissent and obtain payment of the fair value of their shares (excluding any
appreciation or depreciation in anticipation of the NACCO merger unless exclusion would be
inequitable). However, pursuant to the FBCA, appraisal rights will not be available if on the
record date fixed to determine the shareholders entitled to vote at the meeting of shareholders at
which the NACCO merger is to be acted upon or to consent to any such action without a meeting,
Applicas common stock is either (i) registered on a national securities exchange or designated as
a national market system security on an interdealer quotation system by the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held of record by not fewer than 2,000 shareholders.
If appraisal rights were available and the statutory procedures were complied with, such
rights could lead to a judicial determination of the fair value required to be paid in cash to such
dissenting holders for their shares of Applicas common stock. Any such judicial determination of
the fair value of shares of Applicas common stock could be based upon considerations other than or
in addition to the NACCO offer price or the market value of the shares. Shareholders should
recognize that the value so determined could be higher or lower than the NACCO offer price or the
NACCO merger consideration.
If any Applica shareholder who demands appraisal under Section 607.1302 of the FBCA fails to
perfect, or effectively withdraws or loses such holders right to appraisal, as provided in the
FBCA, the shares of common stock held by such holder will be converted into the NACCO merger
consideration in accordance with the NACCO merger agreement.
The foregoing discussion is not a complete statement of law pertaining to appraisal rights
under the FBCA and is qualified in its entirety by the full text of Sections 607.1301 through
607.1333 of the FBCA.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE STEPS REQUIRED BY SECTIONS 607.1301 THROUGH 607.1333 OF THE FBCA FOR
PERFECTING APPRAISAL RIGHTS MAY RESULT IN THE LOSS OF ANY SUCH RIGHTS.
Litigation
On November 13, 2006, NACCO and Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex filed a complaint in the Delaware
Chancery Court, naming Applica and Harbert Management Corporation, HMC Investors, L.L.C., Harbinger
Capital Partners Offshore Manager, L.L.C., Harbinger Capital
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Partners Master Fund I, Ltd., HMC- New York, Inc., Harbinger Capital Partners Special
Situations GP, LLC, Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations Fund, L.P., Harbinger Buyer,
Harbinger Sub, Philip Falcone, Raymond J. Harbert and Michael D. Luce (collectively referred to in
this Statement as the Harbinger defendants) as defendants. The case is assigned to Vice Chancellor
Stephen P. Lamb.
The complaint alleges Applica breached the NACCO merger agreement. On September 14, 2006, the
Harbinger defendants offered to purchase all outstanding common stock of Applica (that they did not
already own) for $6.00 a share. The complaint alleges that Applica failed to keep NACCO informed
of the possibility of this offer before it was made, and of developments after the Harbinger
defendants offer had been publicly announced. The complaint further alleges that the Harbinger
defendants made certain false and misleading filings with the SEC in connection with their prior
acquisitions of Applica stock that allegedly facilitated the Harbinger defendants acquisition of
Applicas common stock at a substantial discount and created an uneven playing field in any
subsequent contest for control of Applica.
NACCO and Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex request in the complaint, among other things, that the
Delaware Chancery Court: (i) declare that Applica breached the NACCO merger agreement; (ii)
specifically enforce the NACCO merger agreement in accordance with its terms; (iii) restrain
Applica from consummating the Harbinger merger agreement (in its then-existing form, prior to
Amendment No. 1 thereto); (iv) order the Harbinger defendants to divest themselves of their shares
of Applica stock; and (v) in the alternative, award damages that would include, but not be limited
to, the lost benefit of the bargain inherent in the NACCO merger agreement.
The court held a scheduling conference on November 20, 2006, and directed that a preliminary
injunction hearing be held on December 13, 2006. The parties undertook expedited discovery. On
December 1, 2006, NACCO and Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex withdrew their request for a preliminary
injunction to enjoin the Harbinger transaction, but did not withdraw the complaint.
In response to the complaint, on December 1, 2006, the Harbinger defendants filed a Motion to
Dismiss and For Summary Judgment. The Harbinger defendants raise a number of grounds on which they
believe that the complaint should be dismissed, including that: (i) the complaint fails to state a
claim on which relief can be granted; (ii) the complaint fails to plead fraud with particularity;
(iii) the expedited discovery exchanged by the parties disproves the claims in the complaint; (iv)
the court lacks personal jurisdiction over certain defendants; (v) there was insufficient process
and service of process over certain defendants; (vi) the complaint fails to join indispensable
parties; and (vii) the claims are barred by certain affirmative defenses and equitable doctrines,
including but not limited to acquiescence, waiver, equitable estoppel, laches and unclean hands.
On December 4, 2006, all of the Harbinger defendants filed an answer to the complaint, in which
they denied the material allegations of the complaint and asserted a number of defenses. Also on
December 4, 2006, Applica filed a Motion to Dismiss and For Summary Judgment, in which Applica
raises a number of arguments, including that: (i) the complaint fails to state a claim on which
relief can be granted; (ii) Applica is entitled to judgment as a matter of law; (iii) NACCO and
Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex are not entitled to
32
specific performance or damages; and (iv) the claims are barred by certain affirmative
defenses and equitable doctrines, including accord and satisfaction, payment, acquiescence, waiver,
equitable estoppel, laches and unclean hands.
On December 18, 2005, NACCO filed a second complaint in the United States District Court,
Northern District of Ohio, Eastern Division against Applica, Harbinger Capital Partners and certain
of its affiliates alleging violations of various securities laws and regulations. The complaint
seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, including, but not limited to, enjoining Harbinger Capital
Partners from proceeding with its proposed acquisition of Applica, ordering Applica to correct alleged
material misstatements and omissions in the Harbinger merger proxy statement dated December 4,
2006, and enjoining Applica from proceeding with the proposed merger with affiliates of Harbinger.
(b) Forward-Looking Statements.
Certain statements made in this Statement indicating Applicas or managements intentions,
beliefs, expectations or predictions for the future are forward-looking statements. These
statements are only predictions and may differ materially from actual or future events or results.
Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and may involve known and
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
from those expressed or implied. They also include other factors discussed herein and those
detailed from time to time in Applicas filings with the SEC.
Item 9. Exhibits.
|
|
|
Exhibit |
|
|
No. |
|
Document |
(a)(1)
|
|
Letter to Applicas shareholders dated December 19, 2006* |
|
|
|
(a)(2)
|
|
Press release issued by Applica on December 19, 2006* |
|
|
|
(a)(3)
|
|
Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A relating to
the Special Meeting of Shareholders to consider the Harbinger
merger, as supplemented on December 15, 2006 (filed on December 4,
2006, as supplemented on December 15, 2006, and incorporated by
reference) |
|
|
|
(e)(1)
|
|
Excerpts from Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
filed March 31, 2006 relating to the Applica 2006 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders |
|
|
|
(e)(2)
|
|
Excerpts from Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
filed relating to the Special Meeting of Shareholders to consider
Applicas proposed merger with Harbinger Capital Partners |
33
|
|
|
(e)(3)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated May 1, 2004 between Applica and Harry
D. Schulman (incorporated by reference to Applicas Current Report
on Form 8-K filed on October 15, 2004) |
|
|
|
(e)(4)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated August 2, 1999
between Applica and Harry D. Schulman (incorporated by reference
to exhibit 10.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed
October 15, 2004) |
|
|
|
(e)(5)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated July 1, 2000 between Applica and Terry
Polistina (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 of Applicas
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
2000) |
|
|
|
(e)(6)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated July 1, 2000 between
Applica and Terry Polistina (incorporated by reference to exhibit
10.2 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 19, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(7)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated September 16, 2004 between Applica and
Brian Guptill (incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.4 to
Applicas Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 16, 2005) |
|
|
|
(e)(8)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated September 16, 2004
between Applica and Brian Guptill (incorporated by reference to
exhibit 10.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed April
19, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(9)
|
|
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between HB-PS Holding Company,
Inc. and Applica Incorporated and joined in by NACCO Industries,
Inc. dated July 23, 2006 (incorporated by reference to exhibit 2.1
to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 26, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(10)
|
|
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 19, 2006 by and
among APN Holding Company, Inc., APN Mergersub, Inc., and Applica
Incorporated (incorporated by reference to exhibit 2.1 to
Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 20, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(11)
|
|
Amendment No. 1, dated December 14, 2006, to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
October 19, 2006 by and among APN Holding Company, Inc., APN
Mergersub, Inc., and Applica Incorporated (incorporated by
reference to exhibit 2.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K
filed December 15, 2006) |
|
|
|
(g)
|
|
Inapplicable |
|
|
|
* |
|
Included in the Schedule 14d-9 mailed to Applicas shareholders. |
34
SIGNATURE
After due inquiry and to the best of my knowledge and belief, I certify that the information
set forth in this Statement is true, complete and correct.
|
|
|
|
|
December 19, 2006 |
APPLICA INCORPORATED
|
|
|
By: |
/s/ Harry D. Schulman
|
|
|
|
Name: |
Harry D. Schulman |
|
|
|
Title: |
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief
Executive Officer |
|
35
EXHIBIT INDEX
|
|
|
Exhibit |
|
|
No. |
|
Document |
(a)(1)
|
|
Letter to Applicas shareholders dated December 19, 2006* |
|
|
|
(a)(2)
|
|
Press release issued by Applica on December 19, 2006* |
|
|
|
(a)(3)
|
|
Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A relating to
the Special Meeting of Shareholders to consider the Harbinger
merger, as supplemented on December 15, 2006 (filed on December 4,
2006, as supplemented on December 15, 2006, and incorporated by
reference) |
|
|
|
(e)(1)
|
|
Excerpts from Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
filed March 31, 2006 relating to the Applica 2006 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders |
|
|
|
(e)(2)
|
|
Excerpts from Applicas Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A
filed relating to the Special Meeting of Shareholders to consider
Applicas proposed merger with Harbinger Capital Partners |
|
|
|
(e)(3)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated May 1, 2004 between Applica and Harry
D. Schulman (incorporated by reference to Applicas Current Report
on Form 8-K filed on October 15, 2004) |
|
|
|
(e)(4)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated August 2, 1999
between Applica and Harry D. Schulman (incorporated by reference
to exhibit 10.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed
October 15, 2004) |
|
|
|
(e)(5)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated July 1, 2000 between Applica and Terry
Polistina (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 of Applicas
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
2000) |
|
|
|
(e)(6)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated July 1, 2000 between
Applica and Terry Polistina (incorporated by reference to exhibit
10.2 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 19, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(7)
|
|
Employment Agreement dated September 16, 2004 between Applica and
Brian Guptill (incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.4 to
Applicas Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 16, 2005) |
|
|
|
(e)(8)
|
|
First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated September 16, 2004
between Applica and Brian Guptill (incorporated by reference to
exhibit 10.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed April
19, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(9)
|
|
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between HB-PS Holding Company,
Inc. and Applica Incorporated and joined in by NACCO Industries,
Inc. dated July 23, 2006 (incorporated by reference to exhibit 2.1
to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 26, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(10)
|
|
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 19, 2006 by and
among APN Holding Company, Inc., APN Mergersub, Inc., and Applica
Incorporated (incorporated by reference to exhibit 2.1 to
Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 20, 2006) |
|
|
|
(e)(11)
|
|
Amendment No. 1, dated December 14, 2006, to Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
October 19, 2006 by and among APN Holding Company, Inc., APN
Mergersub, Inc., and Applica Incorporated (incorporated by
reference to exhibit 2.1 to Applicas Current Report on Form 8-K
filed December 15, 2006) |
|
|
|
(g)
|
|
Inapplicable |
|
|
|
* |
|
Included in the Schedule 14d-9 mailed to Applicas shareholders. |
APPLICA INCORPORATED
3633 Flamingo Road
Miramar, Florida 33027
Dear Fellow Shareholder:
December 19, 2006
I am writing today to ensure that you are aware of several recent developments, as well as the
specific steps you should take to protect and maximize the value of your investment in Applica.
On October 19, 2006, we entered into a definitive merger agreement with APN Holding Company,
Inc. and APN Mergersub, Inc. (which are subsidiaries of Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I,
Ltd. and Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations Fund, L.P., and which we refer to, along
with such funds, as Harbinger) under which Harbinger agreed to acquire all outstanding shares of
Applica that it does not currently own for $6 per share in cash. Harbinger is our largest
shareholder, with ownership of approximately 40% of the common stock of Applica.
On December 14, 2006, Harbinger submitted a definitive binding offer to enter into an
amendment to its merger agreement that provides for our shareholders to receive $6.50 in cash per
share, without interest, if the merger is completed. Our board of directors unanimously accepted
Harbingers increased offer of $6.50 per share, and, on December 14, 2006, we entered into an
amendment to the merger agreement.
The increased offer and amendment followed our receipt on December 13, 2006 of an unsolicited
offer by NACCO Industries, Inc. to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Applica for $6.50 per
share in cash. On the morning of December 15, 2006, Apex Acquisition Corporation, which is a newly
formed Florida corporation and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of NACCO, purportedly commenced
a tender offer to purchase all outstanding shares of our common stock at a purchase price of $6.50
per share.
It is important that you know the boards position on these matters. In particular, after
careful consideration, the board:
(i) recommends that our shareholders reject the NACCO offer and not tender their
shares in the NACCO offer; and
(ii) reaffirms the Harbinger merger and recommends that our shareholders vote FOR the
adoption of the amended merger agreement between Applica and Harbinger.
The board also recommends that, even if a shareholder does not vote with respect to the
Harbinger merger agreement at this time, that such shareholder vote FOR the proposal to adjourn
or postpone the special meeting of our shareholders, if necessary or appropriate, to solicit
additional proxies if there are insufficient shares present or represented at the meeting to
constitute a quorum or insufficient votes at the time of the meeting to adopt the Harbinger merger
agreement. The ability to adjourn or postpone the special meeting will give the board the
flexibility to preserve the existing transaction with Harbinger should the vote not be obtained by
December 28, 2006.
In evaluating the NACCO offer, the board consulted with our management and legal and financial
advisors and, in reaching its determination to recommend that our shareholders reject the NACCO
offer, the board considered, among other things, the following material factors and information:
1
|
|
|
No Premium. NACCOs $6.50 per share offer price does not offer any premium over the
per share price, which is also $6.50, set forth in the amended Harbinger merger
agreement. |
|
|
|
|
Harbinger Merger Agreement at Least as Favorable. The Harbinger merger agreement is
at least as favorable to our shareholders as the NACCO offer. |
|
|
|
|
NACCO Offer is Highly Conditional. The NACCO offer is highly conditional and
includes extensive broadly drafted and subjective conditions that could provide
significant obstacles to completion of the NACCO offer or the other aspects of the
NACCO merger and result in significant uncertainty that the NACCO offer will be
consummated. |
|
|
|
|
Restrictions Imposed by Harbinger Merger Agreement. Given certain provisions
contained in the Harbinger merger agreement, it is not possible to satisfy various
closing conditions to the NACCO offer at this time. In particular, the terms of the
Harbinger merger agreement prohibit Applica from terminating such agreement (which is a
condition to the NACCO offer) to accept a competing proposal that is not a superior
proposal. In addition, if the board modifies or withdraws its recommendation that our
shareholders vote for the Harbinger merger (the board must recommend the NACCO offer as
a condition to such offer), we must pay Harbinger a fee equal to $4.0 million plus up
to $2.0 million of reasonable, documented, third party, out-of-pocket expenses. |
|
|
|
|
Conditional Financing. Although the NACCO offer is not subject to a financing
closing condition, it is uncertain whether Apex Acquisition Corporation will have
access to sufficient cash to complete the NACCO offer. |
In light of the above factors, the board determined that the NACCO offer is not in the best
interests of Applica and our shareholders. Accordingly, the board recommends that our shareholders
reject the NACCO offer and not tender their shares pursuant to the NACCO offer.
The Harbinger transaction is not subject to any financing condition. The purchasing
affiliates of Harbinger Capital Partners received equity funding letters from Harbinger Capital
Partners that, subject to the conditions therein, provide for an aggregate amount sufficient to
complete the transaction. Completion of the transaction is subject only to standard regulatory
approvals and other customary closing conditions.
We have enclosed a Schedule 14d-9 recommendation statement and have filed with the SEC a
definitive proxy statement and a proxy supplement. You are urged to read the Schedule 14d-9, the
definitive proxy statement, the proxy supplement and any other relevant documents filed with the
SEC in connection with the proposed transaction because they contain important information about
us, the proposed transaction with Harbinger, the NACCO tender offer and related matters. You may
obtain free copies of these documents as they become available through the website maintained by
the SEC at www.sec.gov.
A meeting is scheduled for December 28, 2006 for the purpose of approving the amended merger
agreement between Applica and Harbinger. This meeting will be convened as planned and completion
of the transaction is expected to occur shortly thereafter.
TO VOTE YOUR SHARES IN FAVOR OF THE HARBINGER MERGER AGREEMENT, PLEASE COMPLETE, DATE, SIGN
AND RETURN THE PROXY CARD ENCLOSED WITH THE PREVIOUSLY DISTRIBUTED DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT AS
SOON AS POSSIBLE. Please contact our proxy solicitor, Georgeson Inc. at 17 State Street, New York,
New York 10004 or call them toll-free at (866) 857-2624 if you have any questions about the boards
recommendation, the definitive proxy statement, the proxy supplement or the merger or need
assistance with the voting procedures.
We look forward to your support as we work to complete this transaction.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sincerely,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Harry D. Schulman Chairman of the Board, |
|
|
President and Chief Executive Officer |
|
|
2
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Contact:
|
|
Investor Relations Department
(954) 883-1000
investor.relations@applicamail.com |
APPLICA BOARD OF DIRECTORS URGES SHAREHOLDERS
TO REJECT NACCO TENDER OFFER
Reaffirms Harbinger Capital Partners Merger and Recommends That Shareholders
Vote FOR Adoption of Amended Merger Agreement
Miramar, Florida (December 19, 2006) Applica Incorporated (NYSE: APN) today announced that
it has filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission its Board of Directors
formal response to the unsolicited tender offer to purchase all outstanding shares of Applicas
common stock at a purchase price of $6.50 per share that was commenced by Apex Acquisition
Corporation, a newly formed Florida corporation and an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of NACCO
Industries, Inc.
In a filing on Schedule 14D-9, and in a letter to be mailed to shareholders, Applicas Board
recommended that shareholders reject the NACCO offer and NOT tender their shares in the NACCO
offer.
The Board also reaffirmed Applicas amended merger agreement with affiliates of Harbinger
Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. and Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations Fund, L.P.
(together, Harbinger Capital Partners) under which Harbinger Capital Partners will acquire all
outstanding shares of Applica that it does not currently own for $6.50 per share and recommended
that Applicas shareholders vote FOR the adoption of the amended merger agreement between Applica
and affiliates of Harbinger Capital Partners.
In evaluating the NACCO offer and in reaching its determination to recommend that the Applica
shareholders reject the NACCO offer, the Applica board considered, among other things, the
following material factors and information: (i) NACCOs per share offer price does not offer
any premium over the Harbinger Capital Partners $6.50 per share price; (ii) the Harbinger Capital Partners amended merger agreement
is at least as favorable to Applicas shareholders as the NACCO offer; (iii) the NACCO offer is
highly conditional and includes extensive broadly drafted and subjective conditions; (iv) given
certain provisions contained in the Harbinger Capital Partners agreement, it is not possible to
satisfy various closing conditions to the NACCO offer at this time; (v) although the NACCO offer is
not subject to a financing closing condition, it is uncertain whether Apex Acquisition Corporation
will have access to sufficient cash to complete the NACCO offer.
A meeting is scheduled for December 28, 2006 for the purpose of approving the amended merger
agreement between Applica and the affiliates of Harbinger Capital Partners. This meeting will be
convened as planned and completion of the transaction is expected to occur shortly thereafter.
In order to vote their shares in favor of the Harbinger Capital Partners agreement,
shareholders should complete, date, sign and return the proxy card enclosed with the previously
distributed definitive proxy statement as soon as possible. Shareholders who have any questions
about the recommendation statement, the definitive proxy statement, the proxy supplement or the
merger or need assistance with the voting procedures, should contact Applicas proxy solicitor,
Georgeson Inc., at 17 State Street, New York, New York 10004 or call toll-free at (866) 857-2624.
About Applica Incorporated:
Applica and its subsidiaries are marketers and distributors of a broad range of branded and
private-label small household appliances. Applica markets and distributes kitchen products, home
products, pest control products, pet care products and personal care products. Applica markets
products under licensed brand names, such as Black & Decker®; its own brand names, such as
Windmere®, LitterMaid®, Belson® and Applica®; and other private-label brand names. Applicas
customers include mass merchandisers, specialty retailers and appliance distributors primarily in
North America, Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean. Additional information about Applica is
available at www.applicainc.com.
About Harbinger Capital Partners:
The Harbinger Capital Partners investment team located in New York City manages in excess of
$4 billion in capital through two complementary strategies. Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund
I, Ltd. is focused on restructurings, liquidations, event-driven situations, turnarounds and
capital structure arbitrage, including both long and short positions in highly leveraged and
financially distressed companies. Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations Fund, L.P. is
focused on distressed debt securities, special situation equities and private loans/notes in a
predominantly long-only strategy.
* * * * *
The statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are
forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995. These forward-looking statements are made subject to certain risks and uncertainties, which
could cause actual results to differ materially from those presented in these forward-looking
statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements,
which speak only as of the date hereof. Applica undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these
forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.
Among the factors that could cause plans, actions and results to differ materially from current
expectations are, without limitation:
|
|
|
the ability to obtain governmental approvals of the merger on the proposed terms and schedule; |
|
|
|
|
the failure to obtain approval of the merger from Applica shareholders; |
|
|
|
|
disruption from the merger making it more difficult to maintain relationships with
customers, employees or suppliers; |
|
|
|
|
claims by NACCO Industries, Inc. and HB-PS Holding Company, Inc. related to the
termination of their merger agreement with Applica; |
|
|
|
|
changes in the sales prices, product mix or levels of consumer purchases of small household appliances; |
|
|
|
|
bankruptcy of or loss of major retail customers or suppliers; |
|
|
|
|
changes in costs, including transportation costs, of raw materials, key component parts
or sourced products; |
|
|
|
|
fluctuation of the Chinese currency; |
|
|
|
|
delays in delivery or the unavailability of raw materials, key component parts or sourced products; |
|
|
|
|
changes in suppliers; |
|
|
|
|
exchange rate fluctuations, changes in the foreign import tariffs and monetary policies,
and other changes in the regulatory climate in the foreign countries in which Applica buys,
operates and/or sell products; |
|
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|
|
product liability, regulatory actions or other litigation, warranty claims or returns of products; |
|
|
|
|
customer acceptance of changes in costs of, or delays in the development of new products; |
|
|
|
|
increased competition, including consolidation within the industry; and |
|
|
|
|
other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in Applicas Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. |
Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should
underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or achievements of Applica may
vary materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking
statements. Applica undertakes no obligation to publicly revise any forward-looking statements to
reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.
2
In connection with the proposed transaction with Harbinger Capital Partners, Applica has filed
a definitive proxy statement, a proxy supplement and a Schedule 14d-9 recommendation statement with
the SEC. Investors and security holders are urged to read the definitive proxy statement, the proxy
supplement, the Schedule 14d-9 recommendation statement and any other relevant documents filed with
the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction because they contain important information
about Applica, the proposed transaction with Harbinger Capital Partners, the NACCO tender offer and
related matters.
Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of these documents as they become
available through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. In addition, the documents
filed with the SEC may be obtained free of charge by directing such requests to Applica
Incorporated, 3633 Flamingo Road, Miramar, Florida 33027, Attention: Investor Relations ((954)
883-1000), or from Applica Incorporateds website at www.applicainc.com.
Applica Incorporated and its directors, executive officers and certain other members of
Applica management may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Applica
shareholders with respect to the proposed transaction. Information regarding the interests of
these officers and directors in the proposed transaction has been included in the proxy statement
filed with the SEC. In addition, information about Applicas directors, executive officers and
members of management is contained in Applicas most recent proxy statement and annual report on
Form 10-K, which are available on Applicas website and at www.sec.gov.
|
|
|
Black & Decker® is a trademark of The Black & Decker Corporation, Towson, Maryland. |
|
|
3
Exhibit (e)(1)
EXCERPTS FROM DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT DATED MARCH 31, 2006
(FILED WITH THE SEC ON MARCH 31, 2006)
RELATING TO THE 2006 ANNUAL MEETING OF
SHAREHOLDERS OF APPLICA INCORPORATED
STOCK OWNERSHIP
The following table shows the number of shares of Applica common stock beneficially owned by:
|
|
|
our directors; |
|
|
|
|
the executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table on page
14, except Michael J. Michienzi who resigned in December 2005; and |
|
|
|
|
all of the directors and executive officers of Applica as a group. |
All information is as of the record date. Unless otherwise indicated, each person has sole voting
and investment power with respect to all such shares. The address of each of the beneficial owners
identified below is c/o Applica Incorporated, 3633 Flamingo Road, Miramar, Florida 33027-2467.
David J. Coles, Applicas interim Chief Operating Officer, is an employee of Alvarez & Marsal, a
professional service firm, and is not included in the following table. Mr. Coles does not own any
shares of common stock of Applica.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount and Nature of |
|
|
|
|
Common Stock |
|
|
|
|
Beneficially Owned (1) |
|
|
Directors and Executive Officers |
|
No. of Shares |
|
Percent |
Susan J. Ganz |
|
|
93,300 |
(2) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leonard Glazer |
|
|
14,552 |
(3) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ware H. Grove |
|
|
5,000 |
(4) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brian Guptill |
|
|
57,334 |
(5) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
J. Maurice Hopkins |
|
|
20,000 |
(6) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thomas J. Kane |
|
|
31,269 |
(7) |
|
|
* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Christopher B. Madison |
|
|
2,328,200 |
(8) |
|
|
9.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terry Polistina |
|
|
131,472 |
(9) |
|
|
* |
|
(e)(1)-1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount and Nature of |
|
|
|
|
Common Stock |
|
|
|
|
Beneficially Owned (1) |
|
|
Directors and Executive Officers |
|
No. of Shares |
|
Percent |
Jerald I. Rosen |
|
|
52,416 |
(10) |
|
|
* |
|
|
Harry D. Schulman |
|
|
416,407 |
(11) |
|
|
1.7 |
% |
|
Paul K. Sugrue |
|
|
9,660 |
(12) |
|
|
* |
|
|
All directors and executive
officers as a group (11
persons) |
|
|
3,161,610 |
|
|
|
12.9 |
% |
|
|
|
* |
|
Less than 1%. |
|
(1) |
|
Includes options to acquire shares that are exercisable within 60
days of the record date. |
|
(2) |
|
Includes options to purchase 13,500 shares of common stock and 79,500
shares owned by a corporation. Does not include options to purchase
1,500 shares of common stock exercisable in June 2006. |
|
(3) |
|
Includes options to purchase 12,000 shares of common stock. Does not
include options to purchase 1,500 shares of common stock exercisable
in June 2006. |
|
(4) |
|
Does not include options to purchase 1,500 shares of common stock
exercisable in June 2006. |
|
(5) |
|
Includes options to purchase 31,334 shares of common stock. Does not
include options to purchase 9,833 shares exercisable in August and
September 2006 or options to purchase 8,333 shares of common stock
exercisable in September 2007. |
|
(6) |
|
Includes options to purchase 9,000 shares of common stock. Does not
include options to purchase 1,500 shares of common stock exercisable
in June 2006. |
|
(7) |
|
Includes options to purchase 13,500 shares of common stock. Does not
include options to purchase 1,500 shares of common stock exercisable
in June 2006. |
|
(8) |
|
These shares are held by a fund managed by Mast Capital Management,
LLC, of which Mr. Madison is a manager. |
|
(9) |
|
Includes 25,338 shares of common stock held in a 401(k) plan and
options to purchase 83,334 shares of common stock. Does not include
options to purchase 33,333 shares of common stock exercisable in
September 2006 or options to purchase 33,333 shares of common stock
exercisable in September 2007. |
|
(10) |
|
Includes options to purchase 15,000 shares of common
stock and 1,565 shares of common stock owned by Mr.
Rosens wife. Does not include options to purchase
1,500 shares of common stock exercisable in June
2006. |
(e)(1)-2
|
|
|
(11) |
|
Includes options to purchase 219,667 shares of common
stock and 34,856 shares of common stock held in a
401(k) plan. Does not include options to purchase
166,666 shares of common stock exercisable in October
2006 and options to purchase 166,667 shares of common
stock exercisable in October 2007. |
|
(12) |
|
Includes options to purchase 7,500 shares of common
stock. Does not include options to purchase 1,500
shares of common stock exercisable in June 2006. |
Who are the other large owners of Applicas stock?
Except as set forth below, we know of no single person or group that is the beneficial owner
of more than 5% of Applicas common stock.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount and Nature of |
|
|
|
|
Common Stock |
|
|
|
|
Beneficially Owned |
|
|
Name and Address of 5% Beneficial Owners |
|
No. of Shares |
|
Percent |
Mast Capital Management, LLC
Mast Credit Opportunities I Master Fund, Ltd
535 Boylston Street, Suite 1101
Boston, Massachusetts 02116 |
|
|
2,328,200 |
(1) |
|
|
9.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd.(2)
Harbinger Capital Partners Offshore Manager, L.L.C.
Harbinger Management Corporation
One Riverchase Parkway South
Birmingham, Alabama 35244 |
|
|
2,154,600 |
(2) |
|
|
8.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dimensional Fund Advisors Inc
1299 Ocean Avenue, 11th Floor
Santa Monica, California 90401 |
|
|
2,082,872 |
(3) |
|
|
8.6 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ourimbah Investments Limited
9/F., Yue Thai Commercial Bldg.
128 Connaught Road
Central, Hong Kong |
|
|
1,739,000 |
(4) |
|
|
7.2 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments
a division of Robeco USA, L.L.C.
909 Third Avenue, 32nd Floor
New York, New York 10022 |
|
|
1,375,640 |
(5) |
|
|
5.7 |
% |
(e)(1)-3
|
|
|
(1) |
|
As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 13,
2006. |
|
(2) |
|
As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on March 13, 2006.
Also included in such reporting group are HMC Investors, L.L.C., Philip Falcone,
Raymond J. Harbert and Michael D. Luce. |
|
(3) |
|
As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 6, 2006. |
|
(4) |
|
As reported by the shareholder to Applica. |
|
(5) |
|
As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 15, 2006. |
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires Applicas directors and
executive officers and persons who own more than 10% of the outstanding common stock to file with
the Securities and Exchange Commission initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in
ownership of Applica common stock. Such persons are required by SEC regulation to furnish Applica
with copies of all such reports they file. To our knowledge, based solely on a review of the copies
of such reports furnished to us and verbal confirmations that no other reports were required, all
Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and greater than 10%
beneficial owners have been met, except for one initial report of ownership on Form 3 relating to
the reporting of Mr. Brian Guptill as an executive officer of Applica.
How are directors compensated?
Base Compensation. Applica pays a retainer to directors of $4,000 per month for service on the
Board of Directors. We also pay a fee of $1,500 for each Board of Directors meeting attended, as
well as each continuing director education seminar attended. Jerald Rosen, who serves as the
presiding director, receives a monthly retainer of $8,000 and a meeting fee of $2,500. Salaried
employees of Applica do not receive any additional cash compensation for serving as a director or
committee member.
Committee Meetings. Applica pays a fee of $1,250 to committee members for each committee
meeting attended and a fee of $1,750 to the chairman of the committee. Members of the Audit
Committee, however, receive a fee of $1,500 per meeting and the Chairman of the Audit Committee
receives a fee of $2,000 per meeting.
Stock Options. On June 1, 2005, each non-employee director of Applica received options to
acquire 1,500 shares of common stock at a price of $2.86 per share, the fair market value of the
common stock on such date. Applica intends to grant its non-employee directors options to acquire
1,500 shares of common stock on June 1st of this year.
(e)(1)-4
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Summary Compensation Table. The following table sets forth the aggregate compensation
paid during 2005, 2004 and 2003 to our President and Chief Executive Officer (the CEO) and three
other executive officers. The CEO and such executive officers are sometimes referred to herein as
the Named Executive Officers. David J. Coles, Applicas interim Chief Operating Officer, is an
employee of Alvarez & Marsal, a professional service firm, and is not compensated by Applica.
Therefore, he is not considered a Named Executive Officer.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-Term |
|
|
|
|
Annual Compensation |
|
Compensation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underlying |
|
|
Name and Principal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other Annual |
|
Options/SARs |
|
All Other |
|
|
Position |
|
Year |
|
Salary ($) |
|
Bonus ($) |
|
Compensation ($) |
|
(#)(1) |
|
Compensation ($) |
Harry D. Schulman |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
$ |
700,024 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
37,931 |
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
11,828 |
(3) |
Chairman, President and |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
649,532 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
72,105 |
|
|
|
500,000 |
|
|
|
8,710 |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
536,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23,049 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,376 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terry Polistina |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
$ |
300,396 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
11,371 |
(4) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
4,785 |
(5) |
Senior Vice President and |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
275,002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10,800 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
2,674 |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
265,005 |
|
|
|
250,000 |
|
|
|
10,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
6,646 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brian Guptill |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
$ |
251,360 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
184,019 |
(6) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
5,654 |
(7) |
Senior Vice President - |
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
245,024 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
82,808 |
|
|
|
25,000 |
|
|
|
2,590 |
|
Engineering of Applica |
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
235,014 |
|
|
|
40,000 |
|
|
|
80,078 |
|
|
|
2,000 |
|
|
|
6,590 |
|
Consumer Products, Inc. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael J. Michienzi (8) |
|
|
2005 |
|
|
$ |
354,664 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
21,196 |
(9) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
6,592 |
(10) |
|
|
|
2004 |
|
|
|
345,358 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
20,574 |
|
|
|
75,000 |
|
|
|
8,642 |
|
|
|
|
2003 |
|
|
|
339,312 |
|
|
|
290,000 |
|
|
|
18,435 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,617 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
See Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises and Year-End Option/SAR Value
Table below for additional information about these options. Applica
has not granted any SARs. |
|
(2) |
|
This amount includes a car allowance of $24,341; legal fees of
$1,400; golf club membership dues of $9,091; and tax preparation
expenses of $3,099. |
|
(3) |
|
This amount represents life insurance premiums paid by Applica and
matching contributions made by Applica of $4,000 to its 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan. |
|
(4) |
|
This amount represents a car allowance. |
|
(5) |
|
This amount represents life insurance premiums paid by Applica and
matching contributions made by Applica of $4,000 to its 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan. |
|
(6) |
|
This amount includes a car allowance of $10,800 and ex patriot
benefits of $173,219 in connection with Mr. Guptills assignment in
Hong Kong. |
|
(7) |
|
This amount includes life insurance premiums paid by Applica and
matching contributions made by Applica of $4,000 to its 401(k) Profit
Sharing Plan. |
|
(8) |
|
Mr. Michienzi served as the President Household Products Division
of Applica Consumer Products, Inc. until his resignation in December
2005. |
|
(9) |
|
This amount includes a car allowance of $11,700; golf club membership
dues and expenses of $8,616; and accounting expenses of $880. |
|
(10) |
|
This amount represents life insurance and long term disability
premiums paid by Applica and matching contributions made by Applica
of $4,000 to its 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan. |
(e)(1)-5
Option/SAR Grants Table. There were no grants of stock options made during 2005 to any of the
Named Executive Officers. Applica does not grant any stock appreciation rights.
Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises and Year-End Option/SAR Value Table. The following table sets
forth certain information concerning stock options exercised during 2005 and unexercised stock
options held by the Named Executive Officers as of the end of 2005.
Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises in Fiscal Year 2005 and Fiscal Year-End
Option/SAR Values
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Securities |
|
Value of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underlying |
|
Unexercised |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unexercised |
|
In-the-Money |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options/SARs at |
|
Options/SARs at |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2005 Fiscal |
|
2005 Fiscal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year-End (#) |
|
Year-End ($)(1) |
|
|
Shares Acquired |
|
Value |
|
Exercisable (E) |
|
Exercisable (E) |
Name |
|
on Exercise (#) |
|
Realized ($) |
|
Unexercisable (U) |
|
Unexercisable (U) |
Harry D. Schulman |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
219,667 |
(E) |
|
$ |
0 |
(E) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
333,333 |
(U) |
|
$ |
0 |
(U) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Terry Polistina |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
83,334 |
(E) |
|
$ |
0 |
(E) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
66,666 |
(U) |
|
$ |
0 |
(U) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brian Guptill |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
31,334 |
(E) |
|
$ |
0 |
(E) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18,166 |
(U) |
|
$ |
0 |
(U) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael J. Michienzi |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
95,000 |
(E) |
|
$ |
0 |
(E) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0 |
(U) |
|
$ |
0 |
(U) |
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Based on the closing price of Applicas common stock on December 30,
2005, which was $1.58. |
|
(2) |
|
Value Realized is the difference between the exercise price and the
market price on the exercise date multiplied by the number of options
exercised. Value Realized numbers do not necessarily reflect what
the executive might receive if he sells the shares acquired by the
option exercise, because the market price of the shares at the time of
sale may be higher or lower than the price on the exercise date of the
option. |
(e)(1)-6
REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE ON
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following Report of the Compensation Committee and the performance graph which follows do
not constitute soliciting material and should not be deemed filed or incorporated by reference into
any other filing of Applica under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, except to the extent Applica specifically incorporates this Report or the performance graph
by reference therein.
Role and Composition of the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee (a) approves
Applicas overall compensation philosophy, (b) administers Applicas short-term and long-term
incentive plans and other stock or stock-based plans, and (c) reviews and approves general employee
pension benefit plans and other benefit plans. In connection with its review of executive
compensation, the Committee:
|
|
|
Periodically reviews Applicas philosophy regarding executive
compensation and counsels with the President and Chief Executive
Officer relative to different compensation approaches; |
|
|
|
|
Reviews market data to assess Applicas competitive position for the
three components of executive compensation (base salary, annual
incentives, and long-term incentives) by reviewing executive
compensation surveys, compiled by third-party consultants, of
companies in the small household appliance industry and reviews
supplemental general industry compensation information; and |
|
|
|
|
Adopts or amends incentive compensation plans and stock-related plans
in which the President and Chief Executive Officer and other senior
executives may be participants. |
(e)(1)-7
A more complete description of the Committees functions is set forth in the Committees
written charter, which can be accessed through Applicas website at www.applicainc.com.
Each member of the Compensation Committee is an independent director as determined by the
Board of Directors, based on the New York Stock Exchange listing rules.
The Committee makes use of Applica resources and has retained independent legal counsel and an
independent compensation consultant to assist it in fulfilling certain of its duties.
Philosophy. The Committees executive compensation philosophy is to attract, motivate and
retain high quality executives necessary to enable Applica to achieve its business goals and derive
profitable growth and superior long-term shareholder value. To accomplish this goal, Applica
strives to provide competitive levels of total target compensation. The Committees policy is that
a significant portion of the executives total target compensation should be tied both to
achievement of Applicas annual and long-term performance goals, and achievement of identified
personal goals.
The Committee believes that Applicas compensation philosophy should be measured over a
sufficiently long period to enable it to determine whether its compensation programs are in line
with, and responsive to, shareholder expectations. The Compensation Committee does not rely solely
on predetermined formulas or a limited set of criteria when it determines appropriate compensation
for the President and Chief Executive Officer. It also relies on its judgment.
Components of Executive Compensation. In order to establish total target compensation levels
for Applica executives, the Committee considers total compensation in the competitive market. The
total compensation package for Applica executives consists of the three basic components of salary,
annual incentive and long-term incentives, as discussed below. Base Salary and target bonus levels
are generally set at the market median with differences where warranted. Information about
appropriate salary levels has been determined by reviewing executive compensation surveys of
companies in the small household appliance industry, public disclosures of other companies in the
household appliance and other industries and Applicas recruiting activities.
Base Salaries. Base salary is the only fixed portion of an executives compensation.
Base salaries are determined based upon relative responsibilities and functions, as well as the
executives experience and skills. Base salaries are reviewed annually and any additional increases
are based on competitive practices, as well as the performance of Applica and the executive
officer, including the executives contribution to the achievement of financial performance and
other key goals established for Applica during the year.
The salaries paid to the Named Executive Officers for the past three years are shown in the
table on page 14. Three of the Named Executive Officers are currently parties to employment
agreements with Applica.
Annual Incentive Bonuses. Annual bonus payments to executive officers are generally
tied to Applicas achievement of identified objective goals and the executives achievement of
(e)(1)-8
identified personal performance goals. Bonuses are generally paid in the first quarter of the
following year. The personal goals for senior management are evaluated and approved by the
Committee each year. Maximum annual performance bonuses range from 50% to 200% of base salary
measured as of the end of the preceding year. The percentage is determined by the executives
position and responsibilities.
The corporate goals for 2005 were contribution margin of $159.5 million and EBITDA of $51.8
million. Contribution margin is gross profit minus direct expenses and EBITDA is earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Applica did not meet the goals established for
2005; as a result no cash bonuses were paid to executive officers. The bonuses paid to the Named
Executive Officers for the past three years are shown in the table on page 14.
Long-Term Incentive Compensation. The Committee supports awards of equity based
compensation in order to align the interests of Applica executives with Applica shareholders. At
the current time, the Committee is authorized to grant stock options to Applicas executive
officers pursuant to the 1996 Stock Option Plan, the 1998 Stock Option Plan and the 2000 Stock
Option Plan. The Compensation Committee has the authority to determine the individuals to whom
stock options are awarded, the terms upon which option grants are made, the duration of the options
and the number of shares subject to each option. Historically, it was the Compensation Committees
intention that, over time, compensation opportunities from option grants would constitute a
significant portion of each executive officers total compensation. However, the Committee is
re-evaluating the role of stock options as a component of long-term compensation. The Compensation
Committee is also in the process of reviewing other alternative forms of long-term compensation
that will motivate Applicas executives and align their interests with those of the shareholders.
The size of the stock option grant is generally based on the position of the recipient. The
Compensation Committee reviews the overall performance of Applica and of each individual executive
officer, as well as past option grants to each executive officer, and makes decisions about
recipients and grant sizes for the year. Stock options are granted at the market price of Applicas
stock on the grant date, generally vest over a period of two to five years and expire after five,
six or ten years. Stock options will only have value if the stock appreciates after the options are
granted. No stock options were granted to the Named Executive Officers in 2005.
Compensation of President and Chief Executive Officer. In 2004, Applica entered into an
employment agreement with Harry D. Schulman, Applicas President and Chief Executive Officer. The
employment agreement sets the current terms and conditions of Mr. Schulmans employment and is
described on page 19. Mr. Schulman did not receive an increase in his base salary in 2005.
Mr. Schulman is eligible to receive an annual performance bonus based upon the achievement by
Applica of certain objective earnings goals and the completion of personal performance goals set by
the Compensation Committee each year. The performance bonus can range from 100% to 200% of his base
salary, depending on his performance and the performance of Applica. Mr. Schulman did not receive
an annual performance bonus in 2005 because the corporate and
individual performance goals established for 2005 were not met. In addition, Mr. Schulman was not
granted any stock options in 2005.
(e)(1)-9
This report on executive compensation for 2005 is provided by the undersigned, who constitute
the members of the Compensation Committee:
The Compensation Committee
Jerald I. Rosen (Chairman)
Leonard Glazer
J. Maurice Hopkins
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors consists of Jerald I. Rosen, Leonard
Glazer and J. Maurice Hopkins. Messrs. Rosen, Glazer and Hopkins are independent directors of
Applica and are not affiliated with any principal shareholder of Applica.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
Harry D. Schulman. Applica Incorporated and its wholly owned subsidiary, Applica Consumer
Products, Inc., entered into an employment agreement with Harry D. Schulman effective May 1, 2004
that provides for his employment as President and Chief Executive Officer of these companies
through May 1, 2007. The term of this agreement will be automatically extended each year for an
additional one-year period unless prior written notice of an intention not to extend is given by
either party at least 180 days prior to the applicable termination date. The agreement provides
that Mr. Schulman will receive an annual base salary of at least $700,000 and is eligible to
receive an annual incentive performance-based bonus to be determined based upon minimum, target and
maximum performance goals set by the Compensation Committee on or before March 31st of
each year. The target amount of the incentive bonus is equal to 100% of Mr. Schulmans annual base
salary and the maximum amount of the incentive bonus is equal to 200%. Mr. Schulman is also
eligible to participate in executive benefit plans (including stock based plans) and welfare
benefit plans sponsored by Applica. Additionally, Applica provides Mr. Schulman with life insurance
up to a maximum amount of five times his annual base salary and pays for (1) an automobile, (2)
annual dues in a country club and (3) tax preparation and financial planning on an annual basis up
to a maximum of $5,000. Mr. Schulmans employment agreement also contains certain non-competition,
non-disclosure and non-solicitation covenants.
Under the terms of the agreement, if Mr. Schulmans employment is terminated by reason of (1)
death or disability, (2) by Applica other than in connection with a change of control or for cause
(as defined in the agreement), or (3) by Mr. Schulman for good reason (as defined in the
agreement), he will be entitled to receive an amount equal to the higher of:
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1.5 times his severance base (as defined below); or |
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the sum of (A) his annual base salary for the period remaining in the
term of the agreement and (B) his target level incentive bonus for the
fiscal year during which the termination occurs multiplied by the
number of years remaining in the term of the agreement. |
(e)(1)-10
If there is a change of control during the term and Mr. Schulmans employment is terminated by
Applica prior to the earlier of the expiration of the term and 18 months of the date of the change
of control other than for cause, death, disability or good reason, then Mr. Schulman will be
entitled to receive an amount equal to the 2.5 times the severance base. In the event that Mr.
Schulman is terminated by Applica for cause (as defined in the agreement) or Mr. Schulman
terminates his employment without good reason, he will be entitled only to receive (a) any base
salary and incentive bonus which has been accrued but not yet paid as of the effective date of
termination and (b) reimbursement for all business expenses incurred prior to the termination date
which have not yet been reimbursed.
The term severance base is defined in the agreement as the sum of (1) Mr. Schulmans base
salary, plus (2) the higher of (a) the target-level incentive bonus for the year during which the
termination occurs and (b) the average of the incentive bonuses paid to Mr. Schulman for the three
years immediately preceding the year in which the termination occurs. Pursuant to his employment
agreement, subject to certain limitations, if any portion of the change-in-control payment made to
Mr. Schulman is subject to an excise tax pursuant to Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code,
Applica must also make a payment to him on an after tax basis in an amount equal to the excise tax
imposed.
Terry Polistina. Applica Consumer Products, Inc. entered into an employment agreement with
Terry Polistina effective May 1, 2005 that provides for his employment as Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer through May 1, 2007. The term of this agreement will be automatically
extended each year for an additional one-year period unless prior written notice of an intention
not to extend is given by either party at least 30 days prior to the applicable termination date.
The agreement provides for minimum annual base salary in addition to other benefits and annual
stock option grants at the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Polistinas current annual
base salary is $315,000. The agreement also provides for an automobile allowance of $975 per month.
Under the agreement, Mr. Polistina is entitled to an annual performance bonus based upon Applicas
achievement of certain objective earnings goals and his completion of personal performance goals
set by the Compensation Committee each year. The target amount of the performance bonus is 50% of
base salary.
Mr. Polistinas agreement contains certain non-competition, non-disclosure and
non-solicitation covenants. Mr. Polistina can be terminated for cause, in which case all
obligations of the company under the agreement immediately terminate, or without cause, in which
case he is entitled to a lump sum payment equal to the one and one-half times his severance base.
If, at any time during the term of the agreement, there is a change in control of Applica and
within one year after such change in control (1) Mr. Polistina is terminated without cause or (2)
if he terminates his employment under specific circumstances, the company must pay Mr. Polistina a
lump sum equal to one and one-half times his severance base.
(e)(1)-11
Brian S. Guptill. Applica Consumer Products, Inc. entered into an employment agreement with
Brian Guptill effective May 1, 2005 that provides for his employment as Senior Vice
President-Engineering through May 1, 2007. The term of this agreement will be automatically
extended each year for an additional one-year period unless prior written notice of an intention
not to extend is given by either party at least 30 days prior to the applicable termination date.
The agreement provides for minimum annual base salary in addition to other benefits and annual
stock option grants at the discretion of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Guptills current annual
base salary is $255,000. The agreement also provides for an automobile allowance of $900 per month.
Under the agreement, Mr. Guptill is entitled to an annual performance bonus based upon Applicas
achievement of certain objective earnings goals and his completion of personal performance goals
set by the Compensation Committee each year. The target amount of the performance bonus is 50% of
base salary.
Mr. Guptills agreement contains certain non-competition, non-disclosure and non-solicitation
covenants. Mr. Guptill can be terminated for cause, in which case all obligations of the company
under the agreement immediately terminate, or without cause, in which case he is entitled to a lump
sum payment equal to the one and one-half times his severance base. If, at any time during the term
of the agreement, there is a change in control of Applica and within one year after such change in
control (1) Mr. Guptill is terminated without cause or (2) if he terminates his employment under
specific circumstances, the company must pay Mr. Guptill a lump sum equal to one and one-half times
his severance base.
Mr. Guptill is currently on assignment for Applica in Hong Kong. In connection with this
assignment, Applica is providing Mr. Guptill with standard ex patriot differentials, including cost
of living differentials, host housing expenses, tax equalization, transportation allowance,
furniture allowance and relocation costs. Additionally, Applica has agreed to pay Mr. Guptill a
bonus of $100,000 upon the successful completion of the assignment.
Michael J. Michienzi. Applica Consumer Products, Inc. entered into an employment agreement
with Michael J. Michienzi effective May 1, 2005 that provided for his employment as President
Household Products Division of Applica Consumer Products, Inc. Mr. Michienzi resigned in December
2005 and his employment agreement was terminated at that time.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Matters Relating to Ourimbah Investment Limited. Ourimbah Investment Limited, a Hong Kong
company, owns approximately 7.2% of the outstanding common stock of Applica. Mr. Lai Kin, who is
the majority owner of Ourimbah, served as a member of the Board of Directors of Applica until
October 2004. In April 1994, in connection with an acquisition by Applica from Ourimbah, Applica
agreed, upon a change of control of Applica prior to July 2009 (as defined in the acquisition
agreement), to make an additional payment to Ourimbah in respect of the acquisition. The payment is
equal to the greater of (i) the same multiple of earnings per share paid for the shares of common
stock of Applica received in connection with such change of control or (ii) the same multiple of
net asset value per share paid for the shares of common stock of Applica received in connection
with such change of control. A change of control of Applica will not be deemed to have occurred,
and no additional payment will be required, if the
applicable transaction or series of transactions is approved by at least 80% of the members of the
Board of Directors of Applica.
(e)(1)-12
Sales Representative Relationship. Applica Consumer Products, Inc. uses the services of TJK
Sales, Inc. (TJK), an independent sales representative. Thomas J. Kane, a member of Applicas
Board of Directors, is the sole shareholder and Chief Executive Officer of TJK. Applica Consumer
Products, Inc. entered into an agreement with TJK, pursuant to which Applica agreed to pay $3,000
per month plus certain expenses in return for TJKs services as a sales representative to J.C.
Penney. The agreement may be terminated by either party on 30 days notice. Payments to TJK totaled
approximately $47,000 in 2005. Applica also reimburses TJK for related out-of-pocket expenses.
Mast Capital Management. Christopher B. Madison, a member of Applicas Board of Directors, is
a principal of Mast Capital Management, LLC, a Boston-based investment management company focused
on high yield and special situation credit investing. A fund managed by Mast currently holds
2,328,200 shares of Applica common stock (approximately 9.6% of the outstanding shares) and made a
$20 million secured term loan to Applica in October 2005. Both transactions were completed prior to
Mr. Madison becoming a member of Applicas Board. The term loan is secured by a lien on Applicas
assets, which is subordinate to Applicas senior revolving credit facility. The term loan bears
interest at the three-month LIBOR rate plus 625 basis points, which was 10.9% at December 31, 2005.
The term loan matures in November 2009 and requires no principal payments until such time. In
connection with the repayment of the term loan, after June 30, 2006 Applica is required to pay an
exit fee that increases on a periodic basis from 1% to 4% of the principal amount of the loan.
(e)(1)-13
Exhibit (e)(2)
EXCERPTS FROM DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT DATED DECEMBER 4, 2006,
(FILED WITH THE SEC ON DECEMBER 4, 2006)
AS SUPPLEMENTED DECEMBER 15, 2006
RELATING TO THE SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS TO CONSIDER
APPLICAS PROPOSED MERGER WITH HARBINGER CAPITAL PARTNERS
INTERESTS OF OUR DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS IN THE MERGER
In considering the recommendation of the board to vote in favor of the adoption of the merger
agreement, our shareholders should be aware that members of the board of directors and certain of
our executive officers have interests in the merger that are different from, or are in addition to,
the interests of Applica shareholders generally and that may create potential conflicts of
interest. During its deliberations in determining to recommend to its shareholders that they vote
in favor of the merger proposal, the board was aware of these interests.
Treatment of Stock Options
As of the record date, there were 761,000 shares of our common stock subject to outstanding
stock options granted under our equity incentive plans to our current executive officers and
directors with a per share exercise price of less than $6.00. As of the effective time of the
merger, all options to acquire Applica common stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective
time of the merger, whether or not then exercisable or vested, shall become:
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fully exercisable and vested; and |
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shall be cancelled, retired and extinguished and shall no longer be
outstanding following the effective time of the merger. |
In the merger, each director and executive officer holding stock options that have an exercise
price of less than $6.00 per share will receive an amount in cash, without interest, less any
required withholding taxes, equal to the excess of $6.00 over the applicable per share exercise
price for each stock option held, multiplied by the aggregate number of shares of our common stock
into which the applicable stock option was exercisable immediately prior to the effective time of
the merger. Options with a per share exercise price equal to or in excess of $6.00 will be
terminated and cancelled without any consideration therefor if not exercised prior to the effective
time of the merger.
(e)(2)-1
The following table summarizes the outstanding vested and unvested options held by our
executive officers and directors as of the record date, and the consideration that each of them
will receive pursuant to the merger agreement in connection with the cancellation of their options:
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No. of Shares |
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Weighted Average |
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Underlying |
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Exercise Price of |
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In-The-Money Vested |
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In-The-Money Vested |
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and Unvested |
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and Unvested |
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Resulting |
Name |
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Options |
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Options |
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Consideration |
Susan J. Ganz |
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|
3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Leonard Glazer |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Ware H. Grove |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Brian Guptill |
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40,000 |
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$ |
4.575 |
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$ |
57,000 |
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J. Maurice Hopkins |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Thomas J. Kane |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Christopher B. Madison |
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Terry L. Polistina |
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150,000 |
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$ |
4.553 |
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$ |
217,050 |
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Jerald I. Rosen |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Harry D. Schulman |
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550,000 |
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$ |
4.227 |
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$ |
975,150 |
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Paul K. Sugrue |
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3,000 |
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$ |
3.48 |
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$ |
7,560 |
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Existing Employment Agreements and Severance Arrangements with Our Executive Officers
Harry D. Schulman. Effective May 1, 2004, we entered into an employment agreement with Harry
D. Schulman, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. If there is a change of control
and Mr. Schulmans employment is terminated within 18 months of the date of the change of control,
by us other than for cause, death, disability, or by Mr. Schulman for good reason (as defined
below), then he will be entitled to receive a lump sum payment equal to 2.5 times his severance
base (as defined below), plus any base salary and incentive bonus which has been accrued but not
yet paid as of the effective date of termination, as well as reimbursement for all business
expenses incurred before the termination date which have not yet been reimbursed. In the event that
Mr. Schulman is terminated by us for cause (as defined in the employment agreement), or he
terminates his employment without good reason, he will be entitled only to receive any base salary
and incentive bonus which has been accrued but not yet
(e)(2)-2
paid as of the effective date of termination and reimbursement for all business expenses incurred
before the termination date which have not yet been reimbursed. The term severance base is
defined in the employment agreement as the sum of (1) Mr. Schulmans base salary, plus (2) the
higher of:
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the target-level incentive bonus (which is 100% of his base salary)
for the year during which the termination occurs; and |
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the average of the incentive bonuses paid to Mr. Schulman for the
three years immediately preceding the year in which the termination
occurs. |
Pursuant to his employment agreement, subject to certain limitations, if any portion of the
change of control payment made to Mr. Schulman is subject to an excise tax pursuant to Section 4999
of the Internal Revenue Code, we must also make a payment to him on an after-tax basis in an amount
equal to the excise tax imposed. However, if the so-called golden parachute payment does not
exceed 115% of the safe harbor (defined as 2.99 times Mr. Schulmans base amount, within the
meaning of Section 280G(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), then the payment will be cut back to
the safe harbor amount. If the merger occurred on the date of this proxy statement and Mr. Schulman
was immediately terminated by us without cause, he would be entitled to receive an excise tax
gross-up payment of approximately $1.3 million.
For purposes of Mr. Schulmans employment agreement, good reason means the occurrence of any
of the following events:
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a reduction in his base salary or incentive bonus opportunity or a
material reduction of any other type of compensation or benefit which
is not cured by us within ten days following written notice by Mr.
Schulman; |
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Mr. Schulman no longer reports directly to the board; |
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Mr. Schulman fails to be elected or appointed (or reelected or
reappointed) to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer
of Applica; |
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a material diminution of Mr. Schulmans duties or responsibilities
which is not cured by us within ten days following written notice by
Mr. Schulman; |
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a material breach of the employment agreement by us without the
express written consent of Mr. Schulman which is not cured within ten
days following written notice delivered by Mr. Schulman; or |
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Mr. Schulmans services are required to be performed primarily at a
location other than our corporate headquarters. |
On October 31, 2006, we delivered a written notice to Mr. Schulman of non-renewal pursuant to
his employment agreement. Accordingly, the employment agreement will terminate and expire on May 1,
2007 in accordance with its terms. While no agreements, arrangements or
(e)(2)-3
understandings have been entered into, Mr. Schulman has engaged in discussions with Harbinger about
a possible voluntary resignation and severance arrangement with Applica prior to the termination of
his employment agreement.
Terry L. Polistina and Brian S. Guptill. On May 1, 2005, we entered into substantially similar
employment agreements with each of Terry L. Polistina, our Chief Operating Officer and Chief
Financial Officer, and Brian S. Guptill, our Senior Vice President of Engineering. We refer to each
of them as an executive. If there is a change of control and the executives employment is
terminated within 12 months following the date of the change of control by us other than for cause
(as defined in the employment agreement), death or disability or by the executive for good reason
(as defined below), then the executive will be entitled to receive a lump sum payment equal to 1.5
times his severance base, plus any base salary and incentive bonus which has been accrued but not
yet paid as of the effective date of termination and reimbursement for all business expenses
incurred before the termination date which have not yet been reimbursed. In the event that the
executive is terminated by us for cause, or he terminates his employment without good reason, he
will be entitled only to receive any base salary and incentive bonus which has been accrued but not
yet paid as of the effective date of termination and reimbursement for all business expenses
incurred before the termination date which have not yet been reimbursed. The term severance base
is defined in the employment agreement as the sum of (1) the executives base salary, plus (2) the
higher of:
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the target-level incentive bonus (which is 50% of the executives base
salary) for the year during which the termination occurs; and |
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the average of the incentive bonuses paid to the executive for the
three years immediately preceding the year in which the termination
occurs. |
Good reason is defined in the employment agreements to mean a material breach of the
employment agreement by us, without the executives express written consent, for any reason other
than cause (as defined in the employment agreement) or the executives death or disability, which
we do not cure within ten days following written notice by the executive. The employment agreements
for Messrs. Polistina and Guptill were amended as of April 19, 2006 to provide that the executive
will also have good reason if he is required to perform his services primarily at a location
outside a fifty mile radius from Miramar, Florida.
Executive Change of Control Severance Plan. Effective April 19, 2006, our board adopted the
Executive Change of Control Severance Plan, which covers four employees including Messrs. Schulman,
Polistina and Guptill. Under the severance plan, in the event of a change of control before May 1,
2007, each of the covered executives is entitled to continuation of the payment of his base salary
for 18 months if employment is terminated within 18 months after the change of control for reasons
other than cause (as defined in the employment agreement), death or disability or if executive
terminates for good reason, as defined in the executives employment agreement. Payments under
the severance plan will be made in monthly installments starting on the later of the executives
termination date and execution of a release, or if the executive is a specified employee and
benefits are subject to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code six months after termination of
employment. The amount of severance payable under the severance
(e)(2)-4
plan will be reduced by any severance amounts paid under the executives employment agreement. In
addition, the severance plan provides for the continued coverage of the executive and his eligible
dependents under our medical plan for 18 months after the date of termination of employment in the
event of a termination entitling the executive to severance.
The following table lists the estimated value of the aggregate cash severance payment to which
each of Messrs. Schulman, Polistina and Guptill would be entitled under his employment agreement
and the severance plan if his employment was terminated following the merger under circumstances
entitling him to severance. The following table reflects the cash payments that would be payable
based on compensation rates in effect on record date, and if the merger was completed on or before
December 31, 2006(which amounts may change if the merger is completed on a later date).
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Name |
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Cash |
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Severance |
|
|
Payment |
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Harry D. Schulman |
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$ |
3,500,120 |
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Terry L. Polistina |
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$ |
708,786 |
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Brian S. Guptill |
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$ |
573,768 |
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Other Interests of Our Directors and Executive Officers in the Merger
Repayment of Debt. Certain of our indebtedness will be repaid in connection with the merger,
including our 10% notes, $110,000 principal amount of which are owned by one of our executive
officers.
Mast Capital Management. Christopher B. Madison, a member of our board of directors, is a
principal of Mast Capital Management, LLC, a Boston-based investment management company. A fund
managed by Mast made a $20 million secured term loan to us in October 2005, which will be repaid in
connection with the merger. In connection with the repayment of the term loan, after June 30, 2006
we are required to pay an exit fee that increases on a periodic basis from 1% to 4% of the
principal amount of the loan.
Directors and Officers Indemnification and Insurance
The merger agreement provides that in the event of any threatened or actual action, whether
civil or administrative, including any such action in which any present or former director of
Applica or any of its subsidiaries is, or is threatened to be, made a party based whole or in part,
or arising in whole or in part out of, pertaining in whole or in part to, any action or failure to
take action by any such person in such capacity taken prior to the effective time of the merger,
the surviving corporation will, from and after the effective time of the merger, indemnify, defend
(e)(2)-5
and hold harmless, as and to the fullest extent permitted or required by applicable law in effect
on the date of the merger agreement, against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities, costs, legal
and other expenses (including reimbursement for legal and other fees and expenses incurred in
advance of the final disposition of any such claim, suit, proceeding or investigation by such
person), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such
person in connection with such claim action, subject to the surviving corporation receiving an
undertaking by such indemnified person to repay such legal and other fees and expenses paid in
advance if it is ultimately determined that such indemnified person is not entitled to
indemnification under applicable law (except that the surviving corporation will not be liable for
any settlement effected without the surviving corporations prior written consent (which may not be
unreasonably delayed or withheld) and will not be obligated to pay the fees and expenses of more
than one counsel for all indemnified persons in any jurisdiction with respect to any single such
action, except to the extent that two or more of such indemnified persons have conflicting
interests in the outcome of such claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation).
The merger agreement also provides that the surviving corporation will either:
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maintain in effect for a period of six years after the effective time
of the merger, if available, the current policies of directors and
officers liability insurance maintained by us (provided that the
surviving corporation may substitute these policies of at least the
same coverage and amounts containing terms and conditions which are
not less advantageous to our officers and directors); or |
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obtain as of the effective time of the merger tail insurance
policies with a claims period of six years from the effective time of
the merger with at least the same coverage and amounts and containing
terms and conditions which are no less advantageous to our directors
and officers, in each case, with respect to claims arising out of or
relating to events which occurred before or at the effective time of
the merger; |
provided, however, that in no event will the surviving corporation be required to expend an
annual premium for such coverage in excess of 250% of the last annual premium paid by us for such
insurance before July 23, 2006.
Employee Benefit Plans
Pursuant to the merger agreement, certain of our employee benefit plans, which are applicable
to all employees, will remain in place in accordance with their terms.
CONSIDERATION TO BE RECEIVED IN THE MERGER
Common Stock. At the effective time, each share of our common stock issued and outstanding
immediately prior to the effective time of the merger will automatically be cancelled and will
cease to exist and will be converted into the right to receive $6.00 in cash, without interest,
other than shares of our common stock owned by Applica, Buyer (or any of its stockholders), Merger
Co or any direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Applica, Buyer or Merger Co (other than, in
any such case, trust accounts, managed accounts, custodial accounts and the like that are
beneficially owned by third parties), which shares will be cancelled without conversion or payment.
(e)(2)-6
After the effective time of the merger, each of our stock certificates representing shares of
our outstanding common stock converted in the merger will represent only the right to receive the
merger consideration of $6.00 in cash per share, without interest. The merger consideration paid
upon surrender of each certificate will be paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to
the shares of our common stock represented by that certificate.
Stock Options. As of the effective time of the merger, each option to acquire Applica common
stock outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger, whether or not then
exercisable or vested, will become:
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fully vested and immediately exercisable; and |
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will be cancelled, retired and extinguished and will no longer be
outstanding following the effective time of the merger. |
In the merger, each holder of Applica stock options will receive an amount in cash, without
interest, less any required withholding taxes, equal to the excess, if any, of $6.00 over the
applicable per share exercise or purchase price for each stock option held, multiplied by the
aggregate number of shares of Applica common stock into which the applicable stock option was
exercisable immediately prior to the effective time of the merger.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table shows the number of shares of our common stock beneficially owned by our
directors, executive officers and all of the directors and executive officers of Applica as a
group.
All information is as of the record date for the special meeting. Unless otherwise indicated,
each person has sole voting and investment power with respect to all such shares. The address of
each of the beneficial owners identified below is c/o Applica Incorporated, 3633 Flamingo Road,
Miramar, Florida 33027-2467.
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Amount and Nature of |
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Common Stock |
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Beneficially Owned (1) |
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Directors and Executive Officers |
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No. of Shares |
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Percent |
Susan J. Ganz |
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94,800 |
(2) |
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* |
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Leonard Glazer |
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16,052 |
(3) |
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* |
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Ware H. Grove |
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6,500 |
(4) |
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* |
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(e)(2)-7
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Amount and Nature of |
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Common Stock |
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Beneficially Owned (1) |
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Directors and Executive Officers |
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No. of Shares |
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Percent |
Brian Guptill |
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67,167 |
(5) |
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* |
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J. Maurice Hopkins |
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21,500 |
(6) |
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* |
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Thomas J. Kane |
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32,769 |
(7) |
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* |
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Christopher B. Madison |
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2,328,200 |
(8) |
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9.3 |
% |
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Terry Polistina |
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165,545 |
(9) |
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* |
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Jerald I. Rosen |
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52,416 |
(10) |
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* |
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Harry D. Schulman |
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581,453 |
(11) |
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2.3 |
% |
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Paul K. Sugrue |
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11,160 |
(12) |
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* |
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All directors and executive officers as a |
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group (11 persons) |
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3,377,652 |
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13.2 |
% |
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* |
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Less than 1%. |
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(1) |
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Includes options to acquire shares of Applica common stock that are exercisable within 60 days
of the record date for the Applica special meeting. |
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(2) |
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Includes options to purchase 15,000 shares of Applica common stock and 79,500 shares of
Applica common stock owned by Capico, Inc., a private corporation in which Ms. Ganz holds an
equity interest. Does not include options to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock
exercisable in June 2007. |
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(3) |
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Includes options to purchase 13,500 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options
to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in June 2007. |
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(4) |
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Includes options to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options to
purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in June 2007. |
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(5) |
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Includes options to purchase 41,167 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options
to purchase 8,333 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in September 2007. |
(e)(2)-8
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(6) |
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Includes options to purchase 10,500 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options
to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in June 2007. |
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(7) |
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Includes options to purchase 15,000 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options
to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in June 2007. |
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(8) |
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These shares are held by a fund managed by Mast Capital Management, LLC, of which Mr. Madison
is a manager and had, by virtue of such position, shared authority to vote and dispose of such
shares with David J. Steinberg, the other manager of Mast Capital Management. |
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(9) |
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Includes 26,078 shares of Applica common stock held in a 401(k) profit sharing plan and
options to purchase 116,667 shares of Applica common stock. Does not include options to
purchase 33,333 shares of Applica common stock exercisable in September 2007. |
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(10) |
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Includes options to purchase 15,000 shares of Applica common stock and 1,565 shares of Applica
common stock owned by Mr. Rosens wife. Does not include options to purchase 1,500 shares of
Applica common stock exercisable in June 2007. |
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(11) |
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Includes options to purchase 386,333 shares of Applica common stock and
33,326 shares of Applica common stock held in Applicas 401(k) profit sharing
plan. Does not include options to purchase 166,667 shares of Applica common
stock exercisable in October 2007. |
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(12) |
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Includes options to purchase 9,000 shares of Applica common stock. Does not
include options to purchase 1,500 shares of Applica common stock exercisable
in June 2007. |
(e)(2)-9
Except as set forth below, we know of no single person or group that is the beneficial owner
of more than 5% of our common stock.
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Amount and Nature of |
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Common Stock |
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Beneficially Owned |
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Name and Address |
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No. of Shares |
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Percent |
Harbinger Capital Partners Master Fund I, Ltd. |
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9,830,800 |
(1) |
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39.3 |
% |
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Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations Fund, L.P.
c/o 555 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10022
Mast Capital Management, LLC |
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2,328,200 |
(2) |
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9.3 |
% |
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Mast Credit Opportunities I Master Fund, Ltd.
535 Boylston Street, Suite 1101
Boston, Massachusetts 02116
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Dimensional Fund Advisors Inc. |
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2,082,872 |
(3) |
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8.3 |
% |
1299 Ocean Avenue, 11th Floor |
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Santa Monica, California 90401 |
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Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments |
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1,375,640 |
(4) |
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5.5 |
% |
a division of Robeco USA, L.L.C.
909 Third Avenue, 32nd Floor
New York, New York 10022 |
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(1) |
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As reported to Applica and as set forth in the shareholder Schedule
13D/A filed with the SEC on November 15, 2006. Also included in such
reporting group are Harbinger Capital Partners Offshore Manager,
L.L.C., HMC Investors, L.L.C., Harbert Management Corporation,
Harbinger Capital Partners Special Situations GP, LLC, HMC-New York,
Inc., Philip Falcone, Raymond J. Harbert, Michael D. Luce and APN
Holding Company, Inc. |
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(2) |
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As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on
February 13, 2006. Christopher B. Madison, a director of Applica, and
David J. Steinberg have voting and investment power over these shares
in their capacities as managers of Mast Capital Management, LLC, which
is the investment manager of Mast Credit Opportunities I Master Fund,
Ltd. |
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(3) |
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As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on
February 6, 2006. |
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(4) |
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As reported in the shareholders Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on
February 15, 2006. |
(e)(2)-10