UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

 

Form 10-K

 

 

Commission file number 1-13595

 

 

 

Mettler-Toledo International Inc.

 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Im Langacher, P.O. Box MT-100
CH 8606 Greifensee, Switzerland
and
1900 Polaris Parkway
Columbus, OH 43240

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

+41-44-944-22-11 and 1-614-438-4511

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

NONE

 

 

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes o     No þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ     No o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  Yes o     No þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated flier, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act, (Check one):

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12 b-2 of the Act).  Yes o     No þ

 

As of February 1, 2008 there were 35,283,583 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share, outstanding. The aggregate market value of the shares of Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 30, 2007 (based on the closing price for the Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, June 30, 2007) was approximately $3.6 billion. For purposes of this computation, shares held by affiliates and by directors of the registrant have been excluded. Such exclusion of shares held by directors is not intended, nor shall it be deemed, to be an admission that such persons are affiliates of the registrant.

 

Documents Incorporated by Reference

 

 

 

METTLER-TOLEDO INTERNATIONAL INC.

 

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

FOR THE FISCAL Year Ended December 31, 2007

 

DISCLAIMER

 

Some of the statements in this annual report and in documents incorporated by reference constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance, including, but not limited to, strategic plans, potential growth opportunities in both developed markets and emerging markets, impact of inflation, currency and interest rate fluctuations, planned research and development efforts, product introductions and innovation, manufacturing capacity, adequacy of facilities, anticipated customer spending pattern and levels, expected customer demand, meeting customer expectations, planned operational changes and productivity improvements, effect of changes in internal control over financial reporting, research and development expenditures, competitors’ product development, levels of competitive pressure, expected capital expenditures, future cash sources and requirements, liquidity, value of inventories, impact of long-term incentive plans, expected pension and other benefits contributions and payments, expected tax treatment and assessment, impact of taxes and changes in tax benefits, expected compliance with laws, changes in laws and regulations, impact of environmental costs, expected trading volume and value of stocks and options, impact of issuance of preferred stock, expected cost savings, impact of legal proceedings, satisfaction of contractual obligations by counterparties, benefits and other effects of completed or future acquisitions, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our businesses’ actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of those terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. Actual events or results may differ materially because of market conditions in our industries or other factors. Moreover, we do not, nor does any other person, assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of those statements. Unless otherwise required by applicable laws, we disclaim any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this annual report to conform them to actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All of the forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed under the captions “Factors affecting our future operating results” in the “Business” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of this annual report, which describe risks and factors that could cause results to differ materially from those projected in those forward-looking statements.

 

We caution the reader that the above list of risks and factors that may affect results addressed in the forward-looking statements may not be exhaustive. Other sections of this annual report and other documents incorporated by reference may describe additional risks or factors that could adversely impact our business and financial performance. We operate in a continually changing business environment, and new risk factors emerge from time to time. Management cannot predict these new risk factors, nor can it assess the impact, if any, of these new risk factors on our businesses or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results.

 

 

We are a leading global supplier of precision instruments and services. We have strong leadership positions in all of our businesses and believe we hold global number one market positions in a majority of them. Specifically, we are the largest provider of weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial and food retailing applications. We are also a leading provider of analytical instruments for use in life science, reaction engineering and real-time analytic systems used in drug and chemical compound development, and process analytics instruments used for in-line measurement in production processes. In addition, we are the largest supplier of end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging for food, pharmaceutical and other industries.

 

Our business is geographically diversified, with net sales in 2007 derived 43% from Europe, 38% from North and South America and 19% from Asia and other countries. Our customer base is also diversified by industry and by individual customer.

 

Mettler-Toledo International Inc. was incorporated as a Delaware corporation in 1991 and became a publicly traded company with its initial public offering in 1997. In 2001, we acquired Rainin Instrument, a leading manufacturer of pipetting solutions used in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical research applications.

 

Business Segments

 

We have five reportable segments: U.S. Operations, Swiss Operations, Western European Operations, Chinese Operations and Other. See Note 15 to the audited consolidated financial statements and Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under “Results of Operations — by Operating Segment” included herein for detailed results by segment and geographic region.

 

We manufacture a wide variety of precision instruments and provide value-added services to our customers. Our principal products and principal services are set forth below. We have followed this description of our products and services with descriptions of our customers and distribution, sales and service, research and development, manufacturing and certain other matters. These descriptions apply to substantially all of our products and related segments.

 

Laboratory Instruments

 

We make a wide variety of precision laboratory instruments, including laboratory balances, pipettes, titrators, thermal analysis systems and other analytical instruments. The laboratory instruments business accounted for approximately 44% of our net sales in 2007 and 2006 and 45% in 2005.

 

Laboratory Balances

 

Our laboratory balances have weighing ranges from one ten-millionth of a gram up to 64 kilograms. To cover a wide range of customer needs and price points, we market our balances in a range of product tiers offering different levels of functionality. Based on the same technology platform, we also manufacture mass comparators, which are used by weights and measures regulators as well as laboratories to ensure the accuracy of reference weights. Laboratory balances are primarily used in the pharmaceutical, food, chemical, cosmetics and other industries.

 

Pipettes

 

Pipettes are used in laboratories for dispensing small volumes of liquids. We operate our pipette business with the Rainin brand name. Rainin develops, manufactures and distributes advanced pipettes, tips and accessories, including single and multi-channel manual and electronic pipettes. Rainin maintains service centers in the key markets where customers periodically send their pipettes for certified recalibrations. Rainin’s principal end markets are pharmaceutical, biotech and academia.

Analytical Instruments

 

Titrators measure the chemical composition of samples and are used in environmental and research laboratories as well as in quality control labs in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage and other industries. Our high-end titrators are multi-tasking models, which can perform two determinations simultaneously on multiple vessels. Our offering includes robotics to automate routine work in quality control applications.

 

Thermal analysis systems measure material properties as a function of temperature, such as weight, dimension, energy flow and viscoelastic properties. Thermal analysis systems are used in nearly every industry, but primarily in the plastics and polymer industries and increasingly in the pharmaceutical industry.

 

pH meters measure acidity in laboratory samples. We also sell density and refractometry instruments, which measure chemical concentrations in solutions. In addition, we manufacture and sell moisture analyzers, which precisely determine the moisture content of a sample by utilizing an infrared dryer to evaporate moisture.

 

Laboratory Software

 

LabX, our PC-based laboratory software platform, manages and analyzes data generated by our balances, titrators, pH meters, moisture analyzers and other analytical instruments. LabX provides full network capability, has efficient, intuitive protocols, and enables customers to collect and archive data in compliance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s traceability requirements for electronically stored data (also known as 21 CFR Part 11).

 

Automated Chemistry Solutions

 

Our current automated chemistry solutions focus on selected applications in the chemical and drug discovery process. Our automated lab reactors and in situ analysis systems are considered integral to the process development and scale-up activities of our customers. Our on-line measurement technologies based on infrared and laser light scattering enables customers to monitor chemical reactions and crystallization processes in real time in the lab and plant. We believe that our portfolio of integrated technologies can bring significant efficiencies to the development process, enabling our customers to bring new chemicals and drugs to market faster.

 

Process Analytics

 

Our process analytics business provides instruments for the in-line measurement of liquid parameters used primarily in the production process of pharmaceutical, biotech, beverage, microelectronics, chemical and refining companies. Approximately half of our process analytics sales are to the pharmaceutical and biotech markets, where our customers need fast and secure scale-up and production that meets the validation processes required for GMP (Good Manufacturing Processes) and other regulatory standards. We are a leading solution provider for liquid analytical measurement to control and optimize production processes. Our solutions include sensor technology for measuring pH, dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide, conductivity, turbidity, ozone and total organic carbons and automated systems for calibration and cleaning of measurement points. Intelligent sensor diagnostics capabilities enable improved asset management solutions for our customers to reduce process downtime and maintenance costs. Our instruments offer leading multi-parameter capabilities and plant-wide control system integration, which are key for integrated measurement of multiple parameters to secure production quality and efficiency. With a worldwide network of specialists, we support customers in critical process applications, compliance and systems integration questions.

 

Industrial Instruments

 

We manufacture numerous industrial weighing instruments and related terminals and offer dedicated software solutions for the pharmaceutical, chemical, food and other industries. In addition, we manufacture metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging. We supply automatic identification and data capture solutions, which integrate in-motion weighing, dimensioning and

identification technologies for transport, shipping and logistics customers. We also offer heavy industrial scales and related software. The industrial instruments business accounted for approximately 43% of our net sales in 2007 and 42% in both 2006 and 2005.

 

Industrial Weighing Instruments

 

We offer a comprehensive line of industrial scales and balances, such as bench scales and floor scales, for weighing loads from a few grams to several thousand kilograms in applications ranging from measuring materials in chemical production to weighing mail and packages. Our products are used in a wide range of applications, such as counting applications and in formulating and mixing ingredients.

 

Industrial Terminals

 

Our industrial scale terminals collect data and integrate it into manufacturing processes, helping to automate them. Our terminals allow users to remotely download programs or access setup data and can minimize downtime through predictive rather than reactive maintenance.

 

Transportation and Logistics

 

We are a leading global supplier of automatic identification and data capture solutions, which integrate in-motion weighing, dimensioning and identification technologies. With these solutions, customers can measure the weight and cubic volume of packages for appropriate billing, logistics and quality control. Our solutions also integrate into customers’ information systems.

 

Vehicle Scale Systems

 

Our primary heavy industrial products are scales for weighing trucks or railcars (i.e., weighing bulk goods as they enter or leave a factory or at a toll station). Heavy industrial scales are capable of measuring weights up to 500 tons and permit accurate weighing under extreme environmental conditions. We also offer advanced computer software that can be used with our heavy industrial scales to facilitate a broad range of customer solutions and provides a complete system for managing vehicle transaction processing.

 

Industrial Software

 

We offer software that can be used with our industrial instruments. Examples include FreeWeigh.Net, statistical quality control software, Formweigh.Net, our formulation/batching software and OverDrive. FreeWeigh.Net and Formweigh.Net provide full network capability and enable customers to collect and archive data in compliance with 21 CFR Part 11.

 

Product Inspection

 

Increasing safety and consumer protection requirements are driving the need for more sophisticated end-of-line inspection systems (e.g., for use in food processing and packaging, pharmaceutical and other industries). We are a leading global provider of metal detectors, x-ray visioning equipment and checkweighers that are used in these industries. Metal detectors are most commonly used to detect fine particles of metal that may be contained in raw materials or may be generated by the manufacturing process itself. X-ray-based vision inspection helps detect non-metallic contamination, such as glass, stones and pits, which enter the manufacturing process for similar reasons. Our x-ray systems can also detect metal in metallized containers and can be used for mass control. Checkweighers are used to control the filling content of packaged goods such as food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Both x-ray and metal detection systems may be used together with checkweighers as components of integrated packaging lines. FreeWeigh.Net is our statistical and quality control software that optimizes package filling, monitors weight-related data and integrates it in real time into customers’ enterprise resource planning and/or process control systems.

Retail Weighing Solutions

 

Supermarkets, hypermarkets and other food retail businesses make use of multiple weighing and food labeling solutions for handling fresh goods (such as meats, vegetables, fruits and cheeses). We offer stand-alone scales for basic counter weighing and pricing, price finding and printing. In addition, we offer networked scales and software, which can integrate backroom, counter, self-service and checkout functions and can incorporate fresh goods item data into a supermarket’s overall food item and inventory management system. Customer benefits are in the areas of pricing, merchandising, inventory management and regulatory compliance. The retail business accounted for approximately 13% of our net sales in 2007, 14% in 2006 and 13% in 2005.

 

Retail Software

 

Our subsidiary SofTechnics provides retail software for in-store item and inventory management solutions. SofTechnics’ offering complements our retail weighing solutions to food retailers by providing the full scope of real-time item management. Retailers can then match local store inventory levels with local customer demand. Our instruments have been expanded to allow in-store marketing which permits customer to make more decisions at the point of sale.

 

Customers and Distribution

 

Our principal customers include companies in the following key end markets: the life science industry (pharmaceutical and biotech companies, as well as independent research organizations); food and beverage producers; food retailers; chemical, specialty chemicals and cosmetics companies; the transportation and logistics industry; the metals industry; the electronics industry; and the academic community.

 

Our products are sold through a variety of distribution channels. Generally, more technically sophisticated products are sold through our direct sales force, while less complicated products are sold through indirect channels. Our sales through direct channels exceed our sales through indirect channels. A significant portion of our sales in the Americas is generated through the indirect channels, including sales of our “Ohaus” branded products. Ohaus branded products target markets in which customers are interested in lower cost, a more limited set of features and less comprehensive support and service such as the educational market. We have a diversified customer base, with no single customer accounting for more than 2% of 2007 net sales.

 

Sales and Service

 

Market Organizations

 

We maintain geographically focused market organizations around the world that are responsible for all aspects of our sales and service. The market organizations are local marketing and service organizations designed to maintain close relationships with our customers. Each market organization has the flexibility to adapt its marketing and service efforts to account for different cultural and economic conditions. Market organizations also work closely with our producing organizations (described below) by providing feedback on manufacturing and product development initiatives and relaying new product and application ideas.

 

We have one of the largest and broadest global sales and service organizations among precision instrument manufacturers. At December 31, 2007, our sales and services group consisted of over 5,400 employees in sales, marketing and customer service (including related administration) and post-sales technical service, located in 35 countries. This field organization has the capability to provide service and support to our customers and distributors in major markets across the globe. This is important because our customers increasingly seek to do business with a consistent global approach.

Service

 

Our service business remains successful with a focus on repair and maintenance as well as further expansion of our offerings to include value-added services for a range of market needs, including regulatory compliance. We have a unique offering to our pharmaceutical customers in promoting use of our instruments in compliance with FDA regulations and we can provide these services regardless of the customer’s location around the world. This global service network is also an important factor in our ability to expand in emerging markets. We estimate that we have the largest installed base of weighing instruments in the world. Service (representing service contracts, repairs and replacement parts) accounted for approximately 23% of our total net sales in 2007, 2006 and 2005. A significant portion of this amount is derived from the sale of replacement parts.

 

Beyond revenue opportunities, we believe service is a key part of our solution offering and helps significantly in customer retention. The close relationships and frequent contact with our large customer base provides us with sales opportunities and innovative product and application ideas.

 

Research and Development and Manufacturing

 

Producing Organizations

 

Our research, product development and manufacturing efforts are organized into a number of producing organizations. Our focused producing organizations help reduce product development time and costs, improve customer focus and maintain technological leadership. The producing organizations work together to share ideas and best practices, and there is a close interface and coordinated customer interaction among marketing organizations and producing organizations.

 

Research and Development

 

We continue to invest in product innovation to provide technologically advanced products to our customers for existing and new applications. Over the last three years, we have invested $257.1 million in research and development ($92.4 million in 2007, $82.8 million in 2006 and $81.9 million in 2005). In 2007, we spent approximately 5.1% of net sales on research and development. Our research and development efforts fall into two categories:

 

 

We continue to devote an increasing proportion of our research and development budget to software development. This includes software to process the signals captured by the sensors of our instruments, application-specific software and software that connects our solutions into customers’ existing IT systems. We closely integrate research and development with marketing, manufacturing and product engineering. We have over 900 employees in research and development and product engineering.

 

Manufacturing

 

We are a worldwide manufacturer, with facilities principally located in China, Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. Laboratory instruments are produced mainly in Switzerland and to a lesser extent in the United States and China, while our remaining products are manufactured worldwide. We emphasize product quality in our manufacturing operations, and most of our products require very strict tolerances and exact specifications. We use an extensive quality control system that is integrated into each step of the manufacturing process. All major manufacturing facilities have achieved ISO 9001 certification. We believe that our manufacturing capacity is sufficient to meet our present and currently anticipated demand.

We generally manufacture only critical components, which are components that contain proprietary technology. When outside manufacturing is more efficient, we contract with other manufacturers for certain nonproprietary components. We use a wide range of suppliers. We believe our supply arrangements are adequate and that there are no material constraints on the sources and availability of materials. From time to time we may rely on a single supplier for all of our requirements of a particular component. Supply arrangements for electronic components are generally made globally.

 

Backlog; Seasonality

 

Our manufacturing turnaround time is generally short, which permits us to manufacture orders to fill for most of our products. Backlog is generally a function of requested customer delivery dates and is typically no longer than one to two months.

 

Our business has historically experienced a slight amount of seasonal variation, particularly the high-end laboratory instruments business. Traditionally, sales in the first quarter are slightly lower than, and sales in the fourth quarter are slightly higher than sales in the second and third quarters. Fourth quarter sales have historically generated approximately 27% to 30% of our net sales. This trend has a somewhat greater effect on income from operations than on net sales because fixed costs are spread evenly across all quarters.

 

Employees

 

As of December 31, 2007, we had approximately 9,500 employees throughout the world, including approximately 4,200 in Europe, 3,000 in North and South America and 2,300 in Asia and other countries.

 

We believe our employee relations are good, and we have not suffered any material employee work stoppage or strike during the last five years, except for a strike in early 2003 at our Bethune, France facility, which has been closed. Labor unions do not represent a meaningful number of our employees.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We hold over 2,000 patents and trademarks, primarily in the United States, Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, China and India. Our products generally incorporate a wide variety of technological innovations, some of which are protected by patents of various durations. Products are generally not protected as a whole by individual patents, and as a result, no one patent or group of related patents is material to our business. We have numerous trademarks, including the Mettler-Toledo name and logo, which are material to our business. We regularly protect against infringement of our intellectual property.

 

Regulation

 

Our products are subject to various regulatory standards and approvals by weights and measures regulatory authorities. All of our electrical components are subject to electrical safety standards. We believe that we are in compliance in all material respects with applicable regulations.

 

Approvals are required to ensure our instruments do not impermissibly influence other instruments and are themselves not affected by other instruments. In addition, some of our products are used in “legal for trade” applications, in which prices based on weight are calculated and for which specific weights and measures approvals are required. Although there are a large number of regulatory agencies across our markets, there is an increasing trend toward harmonization of standards, and weights and measures regulation is harmonized across the European Union.

 

Our products may also be subject to special requirements depending on the end-user and market. For example, laboratory customers are typically subject to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), industrial customers to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and pharmaceutical customers to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, and customers in food processing industries may be subject to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulations. Products used in hazardous environments may also be subject to special requirements.

Environmental Matters

 

We are subject to environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. We own or lease a number of properties and manufacturing facilities around the world. Like many of our competitors, we have incurred, and will continue to incur, capital and operating expenditures and other costs in complying with such laws and regulations.

 

We are currently involved in, or have potential liability with respect to, the remediation of past contamination in certain of our facilities. Our former subsidiary Mettler-Toledo Hi-Speed, Inc. (“Hi-Speed”) was one of two private parties ordered to perform certain ground water contamination monitoring under an administrative consent order that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (“NJDEP”) signed on June 13, 1988 with respect to certain property in Landing, New Jersey. GEI International Corporation (“GEI”) is the other ordered party. GEI has failed to fulfill its obligations under the NJDEP consent order, and NJDEP has agreed with Hi-Speed that the residual ground water contaminants can be monitored through the establishment of a Classification Exception Area and concurrent Well Restriction Area for the site. The NJDEP does not view these vehicles as remedial measures, but rather as “institutional controls” that must be adequately maintained and periodically evaluated. We estimate that the costs of compliance associated with monitoring ground water contamination levels at the site will be approximately $0.5 million in the coming years.

 

In addition, certain of our present and former facilities have or had been in operation for many decades and, over such time, some of these facilities may have used substances or generated and disposed of wastes which are or may be considered hazardous. It is possible that these sites, as well as disposal sites owned by third parties to which we have sent wastes, may in the future be identified and become the subject of remediation. Although we believe that we are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental requirements and, to date, we have not incurred material expenditures in connection with environmental matters, it is possible that we could become subject to additional environmental liabilities in the future that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Competition

 

Our markets are highly competitive. Many of the markets in which we compete are fragmented both geographically and by application, particularly the industrial and food retailing markets. As a result, we face numerous regional or specialized competitors, many of which are well established in their markets. For example, some of our competitors are divisions of larger companies with potentially greater financial and other resources than our own. In addition, some of our competitors are domiciled in emerging markets and may have a lower cost structure than ours. We are confronted with new competitors in emerging markets, who although relatively small in size today, could become larger companies in their home markets. Given the sometimes significant growth rates of these emerging markets, and in light of their cost advantage over developed markets, emerging market competitors could become more significant global competitors. Taken together, the competitive forces present in our markets can impair our operating margins in certain product lines and geographic markets.

 

We expect our competitors to continue to improve the design and performance of their products and to introduce new products with competitive prices. Although we believe that we have technological and other competitive advantages over many of our competitors, we may not be able to realize and maintain these advantages. These advantages include our worldwide market leadership positions; our global brand and reputation; our track record of technological innovation; our comprehensive, high-quality solution offering; our global sales and service offering; our large installed base of weighing instruments; and the diversification of our revenue base by geographic region, product range and customer. To remain competitive, we must continue to invest in research and development, sales and marketing and customer service and support. We cannot be sure that we will have sufficient resources to continue to make these investments or that we will be successful in identifying, developing and maintaining any competitive advantages.

 

We believe the principal competitive factors in developed markets for purchasing decisions are the product itself, application support, service support and price. In emerging markets, where there is greater

demand for less sophisticated products, price is a more important factor than in developed markets. Competition in the U.S. laboratory market is also influenced by the presence of large distributors that sell not only our products but those of our competitors as well.

 

Company Website and Information

 

Our website can be found on the Internet at www.mt.com. The website contains information about us and our operations. Copies of each of our filings with the SEC on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, Form 8-K and Schedule 14A and all amendments to those reports can be viewed and downloaded free of charge when they are filed with the SEC by accessing www.mt.com, clicking on About Us, Investor Relations and then clicking on SEC Filings. These filings may also be read and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.

 

Our website also contains copies of the following documents that can be downloaded free of charge:

 

 

Any of the above documents, and any of our reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, Form 8-K and Schedule 14A and all amendments to those reports can also be obtained in print, free of charge by sending a written request to our Investor Relations Department:

 

Investor Relations

Mettler-Toledo International Inc.

1900 Polaris Parkway

Columbus, OH 43240 U.S.A.

Phone: +1 614 438 4748

Fax: +1 614 438 4646

E-mail: mary.finnegan@mt.com

 

Factors Affecting Our Future Operating Results

 

We are subject to certain risks associated with our international operations and fluctuating conditions in emerging markets.

 

We conduct business in many countries, including emerging markets in Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe, and these operations represent a significant portion of our sales and earnings. For example, our Chinese operations account for $168.3 million of sales to external customers and $57.5 million of segment profit. In addition to the currency risks discussed below, international operations pose other substantial risks and problems for us. For instance, various local jurisdictions in which we operate may revise or alter their respective legal and regulatory requirements. In addition, we may encounter one or more of the following obstacles or risks:

 

 

We must also comply with a variety of regulations regarding the conversion and repatriation of funds earned in local currencies. For example, converting earnings from our operations in China into other currencies and repatriating these funds require governmental approvals. If we cannot comply with these or other applicable regulations, we may face increased difficulties in utilizing cash flow generated by these operations outside of China.

 

Economic conditions in emerging markets have from time to time deteriorated significantly, and some emerging markets are experiencing recessionary trends, severe currency devaluations and inflationary prices. Moreover, economic problems in individual markets can spread to other economies, adding to the adverse conditions we may face in emerging markets. We remain committed to emerging markets, particularly those in Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. However, we expect the fluctuating economic conditions will affect our results of operations in these markets for the foreseeable future.

 

The majority of our business is derived from companies in developed countries. Economic downturns or recessions in these countries would likely adversely affect our operating results.

 

Although the percentage of our sales coming from emerging markets is growing, the majority of our business is still derived from companies in developed countries. Because our customers often decrease or delay capital expenditures in difficult economic times, economic downturns or recessions in developed countries would likely adversely affect our operating results. Customers may also purchase lower-cost products made by competitors and not resume purchasing our products even after economic conditions improve. These conditions would reduce our revenues and profitability.

We operate in highly competitive markets, and it may be difficult to preserve operating margins, gain market share and maintain a technological advantage.

 

Our markets are highly competitive. Many of the markets in which we compete are fragmented both geographically and by application, particularly the industrial and food retailing markets. As a result, we face numerous regional or specialized competitors, many of which are well established in their markets. In addition, some of our competitors are divisions of larger companies with potentially greater financial and other resources than our Company. Some of our competitors are domiciled or operate in emerging markets and may have a lower cost structure than ours. We are confronted with new competitors in emerging markets, who although relatively small in size today, could become larger companies in their home markets. Given the sometimes significant growth rates of these emerging markets, and in light of their cost advantage over developed markets, emerging market competitors could become more significant global competitors. Taken together, the competitive forces present in our markets can impair our operating margins in certain product lines and geographic markets. We expect our competitors to continue to improve the design and performance of their products and to introduce new products with competitive prices. Although we believe that we have certain technological and other advantages over our competitors, we may not be able to realize and maintain these advantages.

 

Our product development efforts may not produce commercially viable products in a timely manner.

 

We must introduce new products and enhancements in a timely manner, or our products could become technologically obsolete over time, which would harm our operating results. To remain competitive, we must continue to make significant investments in research and development, sales and marketing and customer service and support. We cannot be sure that we will have sufficient resources to continue to make these investments. In developing new products, we may be required to make substantial investments before we can determine their commercial viability. As a result, we may not be successful in developing new products and we may never realize the benefits of our research and development activities.

 

Our ability to deliver products and services may be disrupted.

 

An interruption in our business due to events such as natural disasters, pandemics or other health crises, fires, explosions or issues with the supply chain may cause us to temporarily be unable to deliver products or services to our customers. It may be expensive to resolve these issues, even though some of these risks are covered by insurance policies. More importantly, customers may switch to competitors and may not return to us even if we resolve the interruption.

 

A prolonged downturn or additional consolidation in the pharmaceutical, food, food retailing and chemicals industries could adversely affect our operating results.

 

Our products are used extensively in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage and chemical industries. Consolidation in the pharmaceutical and chemicals industries hurt our sales in prior years. A prolonged downturn or additional consolidation in any of these industries could adversely affect our operating results. In addition, the capital spending policies of our customers in these industries are based on a variety of factors we cannot control, including the resources available for purchasing equipment, the spending priorities among various types of equipment and policies regarding capital expenditures. Any decrease or delay in capital spending by our customers would cause our revenues to decline and could harm our profitability.

 

We may face risks associated with future acquisitions.

 

We may pursue acquisitions of complementary product lines, technologies or businesses. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including difficulties in the assimilation of the acquired operations, technologies and products; diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns; and potential departures of key employees of the acquired company. If we successfully identify acquisitions in the future, completing such acquisitions may result in new issuances of our stock that may be dilutive to current owners, increases in our

debt and contingent liabilities and additional amortization expenses related to intangible assets. Any of these acquisition-related risks could have a material adverse affect on our profitability.

 

Larger companies have identified life sciences and instruments as businesses they will consider entering, which could change the competitive dynamics of these markets. In addition, we may not be able to identify, successfully complete or integrate potential acquisitions in the future. However, even if we can do so, we cannot be sure that these acquisitions will have a positive impact on our business or operating results.

 

If we cannot protect our intellectual property rights, or if we infringe or misappropriate the proprietary rights of others, our operating results could be harmed.

 

Our success depends on our ability to obtain and enforce patents on our technology, maintain our trademarks and protect our trade secrets. Our patents may not provide complete protection, and competitors may develop similar products that are not covered by our patents. Our patents may also be challenged by third parties and invalidated or narrowed. Competitors sometimes seek to take advantage of our trademarks or brands in ways that may create customer confusion or weaken our brand. Although we take measures to protect confidential information, improper use or disclosure of our trade secrets may still occur.

 

We may be sued for infringing on the intellectual property rights of others. The cost of any litigation could affect our profitability regardless of the outcome, and management attention could be diverted. If we are unsuccessful in such litigation, we may have to pay damages, stop the infringing activity and/or obtain a license. If we fail to obtain a required license, we may be unable to sell some of our products, which could result in a decline in our revenues.

 

Departures of key employees could impair our operations.

 

We generally have employment contracts with each of our key employees. Our executive officers own shares of our common stock and/or have options to purchase additional shares. Nevertheless, such individuals could leave the Company. If any key employees stopped working for us, our operations could be harmed. Important R&D personnel may leave and join competitors, which could substantially delay or hinder ongoing development projects. We have no key man life insurance policies with respect to any of our senior executives.

 

We may be adversely affected by environmental laws and regulations.

 

We are subject to various environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to air emissions, wastewater discharges, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes and the remediation of contamination associated with the use and disposal of hazardous substances.

 

We incur expenditures in complying with environmental laws and regulations. We are currently involved in, or have potential liability with respect to, the remediation of past contamination in various facilities. In addition, some of our facilities are or have been in operation for many decades and may have used substances or generated and disposed of wastes that are hazardous or may be considered hazardous in the future. These sites and disposal sites owned by others to which we sent waste may in the future be identified as contaminated and require remediation. Accordingly, it is possible that we could become subject to additional environmental liabilities in the future that may harm our results of operations or financial condition.

 

We may be adversely affected by failure to comply with regulations of governmental agencies or by the adoption of new regulations.

 

Our products are subject to regulation by governmental agencies. These regulations govern a wide variety of activities relating to our products, from design and development, to product safety, labeling, manufacturing, promotion, sales and distribution. If we fail to comply with these regulations, or if new regulations are adopted that substantially change existing practice or impose new burdens, we may have to recall products and cease their manufacture and distribution. In addition, we could be subject to fines or criminal prosecution.

We may experience impairments of goodwill or other intangible assets.

 

As of December 31, 2007, our consolidated balance sheet included goodwill of $440.8 million and other intangible assets of $100.0 million.

 

Our business acquisitions typically result in goodwill and other intangible assets, which affect the amount of future period amortization expense and possible impairment expense that we might incur. The determination of the value of such intangible assets requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our consolidated financial statements.

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”), our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are evaluated for impairment annually in the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset might be impaired. The evaluation is based on valuation models that estimate fair value based on expected future cash flows and profitability projections. In preparing the valuation models we consider a number of factors, including operating results, business plans, economic conditions, future cash flows, and transactions and market place data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and our judgment in applying them to the impairment analyses. The significant estimates and assumptions within our fair value models include sales growth, controllable cost growth, perpetual growth, effective tax rates and discount rates. Our assessments to date have indicated that there has been no impairment of these assets.

 

Should any of these estimates or assumptions change, or should we incur lower-than-expected operating performance or cash flows, we may experience a triggering event that requires a new fair value assessment for our reporting units, possibly prior to the required annual assessment. These types of events and resulting analysis could result in impairment charges for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets if the fair value estimate declines below the carrying value.

 

Our amortization expense related to intangible assets with finite lives may materially change should our estimates of their useful lives change.

 

Unanticipated changes in our tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liabilities could impact our profitability.

 

We are subject to income taxes in both the United States and various other foreign jurisdictions, and our domestic and international tax liabilities are subject to allocation of expenses among different jurisdictions. Our effective tax rates could be adversely affected by: changes in the mix of earnings by jurisdiction, changes in tax laws or tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities and material adjustments from tax audits.

 

In particular, the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which are predominantly in the U.S., is dependent upon our ability to generate future taxable income in the U.S. In addition, the amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing audits in various jurisdictions and a material assessment by a governing tax authority could affect our profitability.

 

Currency fluctuations affect our operating profits.

 

Because we conduct operations in many countries, our operating income can be significantly affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Swiss franc-denominated expenses represent a much greater percentage of our total operating expenses than Swiss franc-denominated sales represent of our total net sales. In part, this is because most of our manufacturing costs in Switzerland relate to products that are sold outside Switzerland. Moreover, a substantial percentage of our research and development expenses and general and administrative expenses are incurred in Switzerland. Therefore, if the Swiss franc strengthens against all or most of our major trading currencies (e.g., the U.S. dollar, the euro, other major European currencies, the Chinese yuan and the Japanese yen), our operating profit is reduced. We also have significantly more sales in European currencies (other than the Swiss franc) than we have expenses in those currencies. Therefore, when European currencies weaken against the U.S. dollar and the Swiss franc, it also decreases our operating profits. Accordingly, the Swiss franc exchange rate to the euro is an important

cross-rate monitored by the Company. We estimate that a 1% strengthening of the Swiss franc against the euro would result in a decrease in our earnings before tax of approximately $1.1 million on an annual basis. In addition to the effects of exchange rate movements on operating profits, our debt levels can fluctuate due to changes in exchange rates, particularly between the U.S. dollar and the Swiss franc. Based on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2007, we estimate that a 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar against the currencies in which our debt is denominated would result in an increase of approximately $12.4 million in the reported U.S. dollar value of the debt.

 

We have substantial debt and we may incur substantially more debt, which could affect our ability to meet our debt obligations and may otherwise restrict our activities.

 

We have substantial debt and we may incur substantial additional debt in the future. As of December 31, 2007, we had total indebtedness of approximately $315.4 million, net of cash of $81.2 million. We are also permitted by the terms of our debt instruments to incur substantial additional indebtedness, subject to the restrictions therein.

 

Our debt could have important consequences. For example, it could make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations under our debt instruments; require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow to payments on our indebtedness, which would reduce the amount of cash flow available to fund working capital, capital expenditures, product development and other corporate requirements; increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, including changes in raw material costs; limit our ability to respond to business opportunities; limit our ability to borrow additional funds, which may be necessary; and subject us to financial and other restrictive covenants, which, if we fail to comply with these covenants and our failure is not waived or cured, could result in an event of default under our debt.

 

The agreements governing our debt impose restrictions on our business.

 

The indenture governing our senior notes and the agreements governing our credit facility contain covenants imposing various restrictions on our business. These restrictions may affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise. The restrictions these covenants place on us include limitations on our ability to enter into sale and leaseback arrangements; incur liens; and consolidate, merge, sell or lease all or substantially all of our assets. Our credit facility also requires us to meet certain financial ratios.

 

Our ability to comply with these agreements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions, and are subject to the risks in this section. The breach of any of these covenants or restrictions could result in a default under the indenture governing the senior notes and/or under our credit facility. An event of default under our credit facility would permit our lenders to declare all amounts borrowed from them to be immediately due and payable. Acceleration of our other indebtedness may cause us to be unable to make interest payments on the senior notes and repay the principal amount of the senior notes.

 

Our ability to generate cash depends on factors beyond our control.

 

Our ability to make payments on our debt and to fund planned capital expenditures and research and development efforts will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. This, to an extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors, including those described in this section, that are beyond our control.

 

We cannot ensure that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available to us under our credit facility in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our debt or to fund our other liquidity needs. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness on or before maturity. We cannot ensure that we will be able to refinance any of our debt, including our credit facility and the senior notes, on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

 

None.

 

 

The following table lists our principal facilities, indicating the location and whether the facility is owned or leased. The properties listed below serve primarily as manufacturing facilities and also typically have a certain amount of space for service, sales and marketing and administrative activities. Our Greifensee, Switzerland facility also serves as our worldwide headquarters and our Columbus, Ohio facility serves as our North American headquarters. The facility in Giessen, Germany is used primarily for sales and marketing. We believe our facilities are adequate for our current and reasonably anticipated future needs.

 

 

 

We are not currently involved in any legal proceeding which we believe could have a material adverse effect upon our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. See the disclosure above under “Environmental Matters.”

 

 

No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2007.

 

See Part III, Item 10 of this annual report for information about our executive officers.

 

 

Market Information for Common Stock

 

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “MTD.” The following table sets forth on a per share basis the high and low sales prices for consolidated trading in our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape for the quarters indicated.

 

 

Holders

 

At February 1, 2008, there were 213 holders of record of common stock and 35,283,583 shares of common stock outstanding. We estimate we have approximately 33,000 beneficial owners of common stock.

 

Dividend Policy

 

Historically we have not paid dividends on our common stock. However, we will evaluate this policy on a periodic basis taking into account our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements, including potential acquisitions, our share buyback program, the taxation of dividends to our shareholders, and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

Share Performance Graph

 

The following graph compares the cumulative total returns (assuming reinvestment of dividends) on $100 invested on December 31, 2002 through December 31, 2007 in our common stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Composite Stock Index (S&P 500 Index) and the SIC Code 3826 Index — Laboratory Analytical Instruments. Historically, we have not paid dividends on our common stock. However, the Company will evaluate this policy on a periodic basis taking into account our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements, including potential acquisitions, our share buyback program, the taxation of dividends to our shareholders, and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

 

Comparison of Cumulative Total Return Among Mettler-Toledo International Inc., the
S&P 500 Index and SIC Code 3826 Index — Laboratory Analytical Instruments

 

 

 

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

 

We have a share repurchase program that was announced in February 2004. Under the program, we have been authorized to buy back up to $1.5 billion of the Company’s common shares. We have purchased 13.0 million common shares since the inception of the program through December 31, 2007, at a total cost of

$858.9 million. As of December 31, 2007, there was $641.1 million remaining authorized for repurchases under the plan by December 31, 2010. The share repurchases are expected to be funded from existing cash balances, borrowings under existing credit arrangements or cash generated from operating activities. Repurchases will be made through open market transactions, and the timing will depend on the level of acquisition activity, business and market conditions, the stock price, trading restrictions and other factors.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, we spent $324.6 million and $265.9 million on the repurchase of 3,384,731 shares and 4,141,559 shares at an average price per share of $95.88 and $64.18, respectively.

 

 

The selected historical financial information set forth below as of December 31 and for the years then ended is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements. The financial information presented below, in thousands except share data, was prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

 

 

 

 

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our audited consolidated financial statements.

 

Overview

 

We operate a global business, with sales that are diversified by geographic region, product range and customer. We hold leading positions worldwide in many of our markets and attribute this leadership to several factors, including the strength of our brand name and reputation, our comprehensive offering of innovative instruments and solutions, and the breadth and quality of our global sales and service network.

 

Net sales in U.S. dollars increased by 12% and 8% in 2007 and 2006, respectively. Excluding the effect of currency exchange rate fluctuations, or in local currencies, net sales increased 8% and 7% in 2007 and 2006, respectively. We enjoyed a strong world economy in 2007 with favorable market conditions in Europe, continued solid growth in the United States and generally strong demand in most Asian countries.

 

In respect to our end-user markets, we experienced improved results during 2007 in our laboratory-related end-user markets, such as pharmaceutical and biotech customers as well as the laboratories of chemical companies, food and beverage companies and universities. We believe that the long-term fundamentals of the pharmaceutical and biotech markets are particularly attractive and our solutions assist these companies in enhancing their productivity as they meet the challenges of new drug approval activity, heightened price regulation and industry consolidation.

 

In our industrial markets, the principal growth driver in recent years has been increased investment in China related to increasing production capacity for the domestic and export markets. Although this provides a significant opportunity for our Chinese operations, this manufacturing shift has a negative impact on certain of our industrial end user markets in the U.S. and Europe. However despite this challenge, our U.S. and European industrial end-user markets experienced solid sales growth during 2007.

 

In our food retail end markets, we faced difficult comparisons in both Europe and the U.S. related to previous year project activity. Traditionally the spending levels in this sector have experienced more volatility than our other customer sectors. Increased spending in the past has come from events such as Y2K and the introduction of the euro currency. Similar to our industrial business, China also provides growth as the expansion of its local economy is creating a significant number of new retail stores each year.

In 2008, we expect to continue to pursue the overall business growth strategies which we have followed in recent years:

 

Gaining Market Share.  Our global sales and marketing initiative, “Spinnaker,” continues to be an important growth strategy. We aim to achieve above market sales growth by improving the productivity and effectiveness of our global sales and marketing processes. While this initiative is broad based, efforts to improve these processes include increased segment marketing and leads generation activities, the implementation of more effective pricing strategies and processes and other sales and marketing topics. Our comprehensive service offering also helps us further penetrate developed markets. We estimate that we have the largest installed base of weighing instruments in the world. In addition to traditional repair and maintenance, our service offerings continue to expand into value-added services for a range of market needs, including regulatory compliance.

 

Expanding Emerging Markets.  Emerging markets, comprising Asia (excluding Japan), Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, account for approximately 25% of our total net sales. We have a two-pronged strategy in emerging markets: first, to capitalize on growth opportunities in these markets and second, to leverage our low-cost manufacturing operations in China. We have a 20 year track record in China, and our sales in Asia have grown more than 15% in local currency since 1999. We have broadened our product offering to the Asian markets and are benefiting as multinational customers shift production to China. We are also experiencing rapid growth in India from increased life science research activities, as well as our acquisition of our distribution channel for laboratory products in 2005. In addition, Russia continues to be an important growth driver due in part to the expansion of its local economy. To reduce costs, we are also shifting more of our manufacturing to China where our three facilities manufacture for the local markets as well as for export.

 

Extending Our Technology Lead.  We continue to focus on product innovation. In the last three years, we spent between 5.1% and 5.5% of net sales on research and development. We seek to drive shorter product life cycles, as well as improve our product offerings and their capabilities with additional integrated technologies and software. In addition, we aim to create value for our customers by having an intimate knowledge of their processes via our significant installed product base.

 

Maintaining Cost Leadership.  We continue to strive to improve our margins by reducing our cost structure. As previously mentioned, shifting production to China has been an important component of our cost savings initiatives. We have also implemented global procurement and supply chain management programs over the last several years aimed at lowering supply costs. Our cost leadership initiatives are also focused on continuously improving our invested capital efficiency, such as reducing our working capital levels and ensuring appropriate returns on our expenditures.

 

Pursuing Strategic Acquisitions.  While we have not completed a significant acquisition since 2001, acquisitions remain part of our growth strategy. We seek to pursue acquisitions that may leverage our global sales and service network, respected brand, extensive distribution channels and technological leadership. We have identified life sciences, product inspection and process analytics as three key areas for acquisitions.

 

Results of Operations — Consolidated

 

Net sales

 

Net sales were $1,793.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2007, compared to $1,594.9 million in 2006 and $1,482.5 million in 2005. This represents increases in 2007 and 2006 of 12% and 8% in U.S. dollars and 8% and 7% in local currencies, respectively.

 

In 2007, our net sales by geographic destination increased in local currencies by 6% in the Americas, 6% in Europe and 16% in Asia/Rest of World. A discussion of sales by operating segment is included below.

 

As described in Note 15 to our consolidated financial statements, our net sales comprise product sales of precision instruments and related services. Service revenues are primarily derived from regulatory

compliance qualification, calibration, certification and repair services, much of which is provided under contracts, as well as sales of spare parts.

 

Net sales of products increased in 2007 and 2006 by 13% and 8% in U.S. dollars and by 8% and 7% in local currencies, respectively. Service revenue (including spare parts) increased in 2007 and 2006 by 11% and 8% in U.S. dollars and by 6% and 7% in local currencies, respectively.

 

Net sales of our laboratory-related products increased by 7% in local currencies during 2007 principally driven by strong growth across most product categories, especially analytical instruments and process analytics. Our laboratory-related product sales were also reduced by 1% during 2007 due to product line exits.

 

Net sales of our industrial-related products increased by 10% in local currencies during 2007. We experienced strong sales growth in our product inspection products, especially x-ray products. We also benefited from solid sales growth in our core industrial products throughout most geographies, particularly China.

 

In our food retailing markets, net sales increased by 3% in local currencies during 2007 over the previous year due to increased sales in Asia and the Americas. European sales were flat versus the previous year due to difficult comparisons associated with strong project activity during 2006. The food retailing markets also continue to experience improved growth of software solutions.

 

Gross profit

 

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 50.0% for 2007, compared to 49.6% for 2006 and 49.3% for 2005.

 

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for products was 53.8% for 2007, compared to 53.3% for 2006 and 53.2% for 2005. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales for services (including spare parts) was 36.9% for 2007, compared to 36.9% for 2006 and 36.0% for 2005.

 

The increase in gross profit reflects several factors, including increased sales volume leveraging our fixed production costs, partially offset by increased product costs, most notably steel prices.

 

Research and development and selling, general and administrative expenses

 

Research and development expenses as a percentage of net sales were 5.1% for 2007, 5.2% for 2006 and 5.5% in 2005. Research and development expenses increased by 7% in 2007 and increased by 1% in 2006 in local currencies. Our research and development spending levels reflect increased research and development investments.

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased to 29.5% for 2007, compared to 30.2% for 2006 and 29.8% for 2005. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 5% in 2007 and 9% in 2006 in local currencies. This is primarily due to continued sales and marketing investments, especially in China and other emerging market countries, as well as higher performance-related compensation costs. These increases are partly offset by savings from our cost reduction initiatives implemented during the second half of 2006.

 

Other (income) charges, net

 

Other (income) charges, net consisted of other income, net of $0.9 million in 2007 and $7.9 million in 2006, compared to other charges, net of $20.2 million in 2005. Other (income) charges, net consisted primarily of interest income, (gains) losses from foreign currency transactions and other items. The decrease in other charges (income), net for 2007 compared to the prior year is due to lower interest income associated with the decrease in cash balances resulting from share repurchases. In 2006, other (income) charges, net included increased interest income associated with higher cash balances in the U.S. as a result of our foreign earnings repatriation during 2005 associated with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. During 2005, other (income) charges, net included a $21.8 million charge related to litigation. We wrote off a $19.9 million intangible asset relating to an intellectual property license that was subject to litigation with the grantor in

June 2005. This license granted one of our wholly owned subsidiaries exclusive rights to distribute certain third-party manufactured pipettes in the United States. A judgment entered on June 6, 2005 terminated the license agreement and awarded damages to the other party. We also incurred $1.9 million of related legal costs during 2005, which included damages of $0.6 million. The damages of $0.6 million were subsequently reversed during 2006.

 

Interest expense and taxes

 

Interest expense was $21.0 million for 2007, compared to $17.5 million for 2006 and $14.9 million for 2005. The increase in 2007 is due to higher average borrowing rates offset in part by reduced average borrowings versus 2006. The increase in 2006 and 2005 was principally due to higher average borrowings over the prior year due to our increased debt balance in Europe as a result of our foreign earnings repatriation during 2005 associated with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.

 

During the third quarter of 2007, we recorded certain discrete tax items which resulted in a net tax benefit of $1.1 million. The discrete items include a benefit of $3.4 million related to a favorable resolution of certain tax matters and other adjustments related to prior years, which were partially offset by a charge of $2.3 million primarily due to a tax law change in Germany.

 

During the third quarter of 2006, we implemented a legal reorganization that resulted in a reduction of the estimated annual effective tax rate before discrete items from 30% to 27%. In addition to the change in our annual effective tax rate, we recorded three discrete tax items: a charge of $10.5 million related to the establishment of a valuation allowance on foreign tax credit carryforwards, a benefit of $13.4 million associated with a reduction of a liability previously established for estimated costs to repatriate unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries, and a favorable tax law change resulting in a benefit of $5.1 million.

 

Pursuant to the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004, we repatriated $396 million of cash during 2005 that was generated over time by our foreign operations. As a result of this repatriation, we recorded additional income tax expense of $13.1 million. This amount reflected the federal tax impact in the United States (including certain state taxes) of $12.3 million, foreign withholding taxes of $2.0 million and a net decrease of $1.2 million of deferred tax liabilities associated with the reassessment of pre-existing and future dividend repatriations. In addition, we recorded tax benefits of $7.7 million related to a favorable resolution of certain tax matters. Our tax rate for 2005 also included a tax benefit associated with the previously described litigation.

 

Our annual effective tax rate was 27%, 23% and 32% for 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The previously described discrete tax items had the effect of lowering our annual effective tax rate by 4% in 2006, and raising it by 2% in 2005.

 

Results of Operations — by Operating Segment

 

The following is a discussion of the financial results of our operating segments. We currently have five reportable segments: U.S. Operations, Swiss Operations, Western European Operations, Chinese Operations and Other. A more detailed description of these segments is outlined in Note 15 to our consolidated financial statements.

 

U.S. Operations (amounts in thousands)

 

 

 

 

The increase in total net sales during 2007 reflects growth across most product lines, particularly our laboratory-related and industrial-related products. Our laboratory-related and industrial-related products experienced especially strong growth in analytical instruments and product inspection, respectively. Net sales were reduced by 1% related to product line exits.

 

Segment profit increased by $15.5 million in our U.S. Operations segment during 2007, compared to an increase of $9.9 million during 2006. The increase in segment profit in 2007 was primarily due to increased sales volume, leveraging our fixed production costs and benefits of our cost reduction initiatives. Segment profit also benefited from the resolution of two legal matters, which were partially offset by a $1.1 million loss on the sale of a product line.

 

Swiss Operations (amounts in thousands)

 

 

 

 

Total net sales in local currency increased by 11% in 2007 and 6% in 2006. Net sales to external customers in local currency increased by 9% in 2007 and increased by 10% in 2006. The increase in sales to external customers during 2007 relates to continued growth in our laboratory-related products. We also continue to experience strong export sales growth to emerging markets.

 

Segment profit increased by $11.1 million in our Swiss Operations segment during 2007, compared to an increase of $4.6 million during 2006. The increase in segment profit in 2007 is primarily due to increased sales volume, favorable product mix, and favorable currency translation fluctuations, partially offset by increased research and development and sales and marketing investments.

 

Western European Operations (amounts in thousands)

 

 

 

 

Total net sales in local currency increased by 6% in 2007 and 5% in 2006. Net sales to external customers in local currency increased by 5% in 2007 and 5% in 2006. The 2007 increase is primarily due to strong sales growth in our product inspection, laboratory-related and core industrial products due to benefits from our sales and marketing initiatives as well as improved market conditions, offset in part by a decline in food retailing products related to strong customer project activity in the prior year.

 

Segment profit increased by $7.9 million in our Western European Operations segment during 2007, compared to an increase of $5.2 million in 2006. The increase in segment profit in 2007 is principally a result of increased sales volume leveraging our fixed production costs, favorable product mix, favorable currency translation fluctuations and benefits of our cost reduction initiatives, partially offset by charges associated with cost reduction initiatives.

Chinese Operations (amounts in thousands)

 

 

 

 

Total net sales in local currency increased by 21% in 2007 and 12% in 2006. Net sales to external customers in local currency increased by 21% in 2007 and 10% in 2006. These increases were due to continued sales growth for all product lines, in particular industrial-related products.

 

Segment profit increased by $12.3 million in our Chinese Operations segment during 2007, compared to an increase of $4.9 million in 2006. The increase in segment profit in 2007 is primarily due to the continued improvement in sales volume, partially offset by continued investments in sales and marketing and research and development. Our Chinese operations also benefited from a gain associated with an asset sale.

 

Other (amounts in thousands)

 

 

 

 

Total net sales in local currency increased by 15% in 2007 and 14% in 2006. Net sales to external customers in local currency increased 13% in 2007 and 14% in 2006. This performance reflects increased sales growth across most product lines in our Other Asian Pacific, Eastern European and Other North American markets.

 

Segment profit increased by $8.5 million in our Other segment during 2007, compared to an increase of $6.7 million during 2006. Segment profit increased during 2007 primarily due to strong sales volume and benefits from our cost reduction programs, partially offset by costs associated with a contractual termination.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity is our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operating activities to meet our obligations and commitments. In addition, liquidity includes the ability to obtain appropriate financing. Currently, our financing requirements are primarily driven by working capital requirements, capital expenditures, share repurchases and acquisitions. In 2005, we increased our debt balance in Europe and our cash balance in the United States as a result of our foreign earnings repatriation associated with the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.

 

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $228.2 million in 2007, compared to $191.6 million in 2006 and $177.1 million in 2005. The increase in 2007 resulted principally from improved operating results and a reduction in tax payments which included a $6 million tax refund, offset in part by approximately $9 million of higher payments related to 2007 performance-related compensation incentives (bonus payments) compared to the corresponding period in 2006. We also made a $8 million voluntary incremental pension contribution to our U.S. plan in 2007 compared to a $6 million contribution to our U.K. plan in 2006. The increase in 2006, as compared to 2005, resulted principally from improved operating results and reduced inventory levels, which was offset in part by a $6 million voluntary incremental pension contribution to our U.K. pension plan. Similarly to previous years, we expect to make normal employer pension contributions of approximately $17.8 million in 2008.

Capital expenditures are made primarily for investments in information systems and technology, machinery, equipment and the purchase and expansion of facilities. Our capital expenditures totaled $47.5 million in 2007, $34.3 million in 2006 and $32.5 million in 2005. We expect capital expenditures to increase as our business grows and to fluctuate as currency exchange rates change. Our capital expenditures in 2007 included $7.1 million of investments related to our new Chinese facility, compared to $6.4 million in 2006. In 2007, capital expenditures also included $5 million of software licenses relating to investments in corporate information technology systems.

 

We continue to explore potential acquisitions. In connection with any acquisition, we may incur additional indebtedness.

 

Credit Agreement

 

In November 2005, we entered into an amended and restated credit agreement (“the Credit Agreement”). The $450 million Credit Agreement is provided by a group of financial institutions and has a maturity date of November 5, 2010. It is not subject to any scheduled principal payments. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at current market rates plus a margin based on our senior unsecured credit ratings (currently “BBB” by Standard & Poor’s and “Baa3” by Moody’s) and is currently set at LIBOR plus 0.375%. We must also pay facility fees that are tied to our credit ratings. The Credit Agreement contains covenants, including maintaining a ratio of debt to earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of less than 3.25 to 1.0 and an interest coverage ratio of more than 3.5 to 1.0. The Credit Agreement also places certain limitations on us, including limiting the ability to grant liens or incur debt at a subsidiary level. In addition, the Credit Agreement has several events of default, including upon a change of control. As of December 31, 2007, approximately $216.8 million was available under the facility. The Credit Agreement is unsecured. We incurred fees of approximately $0.9 million in conjunction with amending and restating the Credit Agreement which are amortized to interest expense through 2010.

 

Senior Notes

 

In November 2003, we issued $150 million of 4.85% unsecured Senior Notes due November 15, 2010. The Senior Notes rank equally with all our unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness. Interest is payable semi-annually in May and November. Discount and issuance costs approximated $1.2 million and are being amortized to interest expense over the seven-year term of the Senior Notes.

 

At our option, the Senior Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time at a redemption price equal to the greater of:

 

 

The Senior Notes contain limitations on our ability to incur liens and enter into sale and leaseback transactions exceeding 10% of our consolidated net worth.

Our short-term borrowings and long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2007 (amounts in thousands).

 

 

Changes in exchange rates between the currencies in which we generate cash flow and the currencies in which our borrowings are denominated affect our liquidity. In addition, because we borrow in a variety of currencies, our debt balances fluctuate due to changes in exchange rates.

 

At December 31, 2007, we were in compliance with all covenants set forth in our Amended Credit Agreement and Senior Notes. In addition, we do not have any downgrade triggers relating to ratings from rating agencies that would accelerate the maturity dates of our debt.

 

We currently believe that cash flow from operating activities, together with liquidity available under our Amended Credit Agreement and local working capital facilities, will be sufficient to fund currently anticipated working capital needs and capital spending requirements for at least the next several years.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

The following summarizes certain of our contractual obligations at December 31, 2007 and the effect such obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods. We do not have significant outstanding letters of credit or other financial commitments.

 

 

In addition to the above table, we also have liabilities for income taxes, pension and post-retirement funding. However we cannot determine the timing or the amounts for periods beyond 2007 for income taxes and beyond 2008 for pension and post-retirement funding.

 

We have purchase commitments for materials, supplies, services and fixed assets in the normal course of business. Due to the proprietary nature of many of our materials and processes, certain supply contracts contain penalty provisions. We do not expect potential payments under these provisions to materially affect results of operations or financial condition. This conclusion is based upon reasonably likely outcomes derived by reference to historical experience and current business plans.

Share Repurchase Program

 

We have a share repurchase program that was announced in 2004. Under the program, we have been authorized to buy back up to $1.5 billion of the Company’s common shares. As of December 31, 2007, there were $641.1 million of remaining common shares authorized to be repurchased under the plan by December 31, 2010. The share repurchases are expected to be funded from cash balances, borrowings and cash generated from operating activities. Repurchases will be made through open market transactions, and the timing will depend on the level of acquisition activity, business and market conditions, the stock price, trading restrictions and other factors. We have purchased 13.0 million shares since the inception of the program through December 31, 2007.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, we spent $324.6 million and $265.9 million on the repurchase of 3,384,731 shares and 4,141,559 shares at an average price per share of $95.88 and $64.18, respectively. An additional $5.2 million and $5.4 million relating to the settlement of shares repurchased as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 were cash settled during 2008 and 2007, respectively. We reissued 567,205 shares and 1,152,892 shares held in treasury for the exercise of stock options during 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

Currently, we have no off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material.

 

Effect of Currency on Results of Operations

 

Because we conduct operations in many countries, our operating income can be significantly affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Swiss franc-denominated expenses represent a much greater percentage of our operating expenses than Swiss franc-denominated sales represent of our net sales. In part, this is because most of our manufacturing costs in Switzerland relate to products that are sold outside Switzerland. Moreover, a substantial percentage of our research and development expenses and general and administrative expenses are incurred in Switzerland. Therefore, if the Swiss franc strengthens against all or most of our major trading currencies (e.g., the U.S. dollar, the euro, other major European currencies, the Chinese yuan and the Japanese yen), our operating profit is reduced. We also have significantly more sales in European currencies (other than the Swiss franc) than we have expenses in those currencies. Therefore, when European currencies weaken against the U.S. dollar and the Swiss franc, it also decreases our operating profits. Accordingly, the Swiss franc exchange rate to the euro is an important cross-rate that we monitor. We estimate that a 1% strengthening of the Swiss franc against the euro would result in a decrease in our earnings before tax of $1.1 million to $1.3 million on an annual basis. In addition to the effects of exchange rate movements on operating profits, our debt levels can fluctuate due to changes in exchange rates, particularly between the U.S. dollar and the Swiss franc. Based on our outstanding debt at December 31, 2007, we estimate that a 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar against the currencies in which our debt is denominated would result in an increase of approximately $12.4 million in the reported U.S. dollar value of the debt.

 

Taxes

 

We are subject to taxation in many jurisdictions throughout the world. Our effective tax rate and tax liability will be affected by a number of factors, such as the amount of taxable income in particular jurisdictions, the tax rates in such jurisdictions, tax treaties between jurisdictions, the extent to which we transfer funds between jurisdictions, earnings repatriations between jurisdictions and changes in law. Generally, the tax liability for each taxpayer within the group is determined either (i) on a non-consolidated/non-combined basis or (ii) on a consolidated/combined basis only with other eligible entities subject to tax in the same jurisdiction, in either case without regard to the taxable losses of non-consolidated/non-combined affiliated legal entities.

Environmental Matters

 

We are subject to environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. We own or lease a number of properties and manufacturing facilities around the world. Like many of our competitors, we have incurred, and will continue to incur, capital and operating expenditures and other costs in complying with such laws and regulations.

 

We are currently involved in, or have potential liability with respect to, the remediation of past contamination in certain of our facilities in both the United States and abroad. Our former subsidiary, Hi-Speed, was one of two private parties ordered to perform certain ground water contamination monitoring under an administrative consent order that NJDEP signed on June 13, 1988 with respect to certain property in Landing, New Jersey. GEI is the other ordered party. GEI has failed to fulfill its obligations under the NJDEP consent order, and NJDEP has agreed with Hi-Speed that the residual ground water contaminants can be monitored through the establishment of a Classification Exception Area and concurrent Well Restriction Area for the site. The NJDEP does not view these vehicles as remedial measures, but rather as “institutional controls” that must be adequately maintained and periodically evaluated. We estimate that the costs of compliance associated with monitoring ground water contamination levels at the site will be approximately $0.5 million in the coming years.

 

In addition, certain of our present and former facilities have or had been in operation for many decades and, over such time, some of these facilities may have used substances or generated and disposed of wastes which are or may be considered hazardous. It is possible that these sites, as well as disposal sites owned by third parties to which we have sent wastes, may in the future be identified and become the subject of remediation. Accordingly, although we believe that we are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental requirements and to date we have not incurred material expenditures in connection with environmental matters, it is possible that we could become subject to additional environmental liabilities in the future that could result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations or cash flows.

 

Inflation

 

Inflation can affect the costs of goods and services that we use, including raw materials to manufacture our products. The competitive environment in which we operate limits somewhat our ability to recover higher costs through increased selling prices.

 

Moreover, there may be differences in inflation rates between countries in which we incur the major portion of our costs and other countries in which we sell products, which may limit our ability to recover increased costs. We remain committed to operations in China and Eastern Europe, which have experienced inflationary conditions. To date, inflationary conditions have not had a material effect on our operating results. However, as our presence in China and Eastern Europe increases, these inflationary conditions could have a greater impact on our operating results.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

We have only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments and do not use them for trading purposes.

 

We have entered into foreign currency forward contracts to economically hedge short-term intercompany balances with our international businesses on a monthly basis. Such contracts limit our exposure to both favorable and unfavorable currency fluctuations. The fair value of these contracts was a $0.6 million gain and a $0.2 million gain at December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. A sensitivity analysis to changes on these foreign currency-denominated contracts indicates that if the primary currency (U.S. dollar, Swiss franc and British pound) declined by 10%, the fair value of these instruments would decrease by $1.6 million at December 31, 2007, as compared with a decrease of $3.5 million at December 31, 2006. Any resulting changes in fair value would be offset by changes in the underlying hedged balance sheet position. The sensitivity analysis assumes a parallel shift in foreign currency exchange rates. The assumption that exchange rates change in parallel fashion may overstate the impact of changing exchange rates on assets and liabilities

denominated in a foreign currency. We also have other currency risks as described under “Effect of Currency on Results of Operations.”

 

We have entered into certain interest rate swap agreements. These contracts are more fully described in Note 4 to our audited consolidated financial statements. The fair value of these contracts was a $0.6 million gain at December 31, 2007 and a $0.4 million loss at December 31, 2006. Based on our agreements outstanding at December 31, 2007, a 100-basis-point increase in interest rates would result in a decrease in the net aggregate market value of these instruments of $0.8 million, as compared with a decrease of $1.0 million at December 31, 2006. Conversely, a 100-basis-point decrease in interest rates would result in a $0.9 million increase in the net aggregate market value of these instruments at December 31, 2007, as compared with a net increase of $1.1 million at December 31, 2006. Any change in fair value would not affect our consolidated statement of operations unless such agreements and the debt they hedge were prematurely settled.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

Management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our audited consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to pensions and other post-retirement benefits, inventories, intangible assets, income taxes, revenue and warranty costs. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

We believe the following critical accounting policies affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our audited consolidated financial statements. For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting policies, see Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

 

Employee benefit plans

 

The net periodic pension cost for 2007 and projected benefit obligation as of December 31, 2007 were $0.8 million and $107.2 million, respectively, for our U.S. pension plans and $8.2 million and $605.3 million, respectively, for our international pension plans. The net periodic post-retirement cost for 2007 and expected postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 2007 for our U.S. post-retirement medical benefit plan were $0.8 million and $22.0 million, respectively.

 

Pension and post-retirement benefit plan expense and obligations are developed from assumptions utilized in actuarial valuations. The most significant of these assumptions include the discount rate and expected return on plan assets. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, actual results that differ from the assumptions are accumulated and deferred over future periods. While management believes the assumptions used are appropriate, differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our plan obligations and future expense.

 

The expected rates of return on the various defined benefit pension plans’ assets are based on the asset allocation of each plan and the long-term projected return of those assets, which represent a diversified mix of U.S. and international corporate equities and government and corporate debt securities. In April 2002, we froze our U.S. defined benefit pension plan and discontinued our retiree medical program for certain current and all future employees. Consequently, no significant future service costs will be incurred on these plans. For 2007, the weighted average return on assets assumption was 8.5% for the U.S. plan and 5.2% for the international plans. A change in the rate of return of 1% would impact annual benefit plan expense by approximately $5.3 million after tax.

The discount rates for defined benefit and post-retirement plans are set by benchmarking against high-quality corporate bonds. For 2007, the average discount rate assumption was 6.25% for the U.S. plans and 3.90% for the international plans, representing a weighted average of local rates in countries where such plans exist. A decrease in the discount rate of 1% would impact annual benefit plan expense by approximately $2.7 million after tax.

 

In 2007 and 2006, we made voluntary incremental funding payments of $7.7 million and $6.0 million, respectively, to reduce the underfunded status of our U.S. and U.K. pension plans. In the future, we may make additional mandatory or discretionary contributions to our plan or we could be required to make additional cash funding payments.

 

Equity compensation

 

We also have an equity incentive plan that provides for the grant of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and other equity-based awards which, as of January 1, 2006, are accounted for and recognized in the consolidated statement of operations based on the grant-date fair value of the award under SFAS No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”). Prior to January 1, 2006, these equity awards were accounted for under the intrinsic value method pursuant to Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” and related interpretations. Note 10 to the audited consolidated financial statements provides supplemental information, including pro forma earnings and earnings per share, as if we had accounted for options based on the fair value method prescribed by SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” These methodologies yield an estimate of fair value based in part on a number of management estimates, the most significant of which include future volatility and estimated option lives. Changes in these assumptions could significantly impact the estimated fair value of stock options.

 

Inventory

 

As of December 31, 2007, inventories were $173.7 million.

 

We record our inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost, which includes direct materials, labor and overhead, is generally determined using the first in, first out (FIFO) method. The estimated net realizable value is based on assumptions for future demand and related pricing. Adjustments to the cost basis of our inventory are made for excess and obsolete items based on usage, orders and technological obsolescence. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, reductions in the value of inventory may be required.

 

Goodwill and other intangible assets

 

As of December 31, 2007, our consolidated balance sheet included goodwill of $440.8 million and other intangible assets of $100.0 million.

 

Our business acquisitions typically result in goodwill and other intangible assets, which affect the amount of future period amortization expense and possible impairment expense that we will incur. The determination of the value of such intangible assets requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our consolidated financial statements.

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”), our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are evaluated for impairment annually in the fourth quarter, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset might be impaired. The evaluation is based on valuation models that estimate fair value based on expected future cash flows and profitability projections. In preparing the valuation models, we consider a number of factors, including operating results, business plans, economic conditions, future cash flows and transactions and market place data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and our judgment in applying them to the impairment analyses. The most significant of these estimates and assumptions within our fair value models include estimated cash flows resulting from estimates of sales growth and controllable cost growth, perpetual

growth, effective tax rates and discount rates. Our assessments to date have indicated that there has been no impairment of these assets.

 

Should any of these estimates or assumptions in the preceding paragraphs change, or should we incur lower than expected operating performance or cash flows, we may experience a triggering event that requires a new fair value assessment for our reporting units, possibly prior to the required annual assessment. These types of events and resulting analysis could result in impairment charges for goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets if the fair value estimate declines below the carrying value.

 

Our amortization expense related to intangible assets with finite lives may materially change should our estimates of their useful lives change.

 

As of December 31, 2004, our intangible assets included a $19.9 million indefinite life intangible asset relating to an intellectual property license. This license was previously subject to litigation with the grantor, and on June 6, 2005, we were ordered to pay $0.6 million in damages and the respective intellectual property license was terminated. Due to the cancellation of the license, we concluded that the intangible asset had no future benefit and as such, during the second quarter of 2005, we wrote off the total value of the asset, $19.9 million ($12 million after tax). This charge has been included as a component of Other (income) charges, net within the Statement of Operations. The damages of $0.6 million were subsequently reversed during 2006.

 

Income taxes

 

Income tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect management’s assessment of actual future taxes to be paid on items in the consolidated financial statements. We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. While we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance, in the event we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would increase income, equity or goodwill in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of the net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.

 

We have undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries and currently believe that there will be no cost associated with the repatriation of such foreign earnings.

 

The significant assumptions and estimates described in the preceding paragraphs are important contributors to our ultimate effective tax rate for each year in addition to our income mix from geographical regions. If any of our assumptions or estimates were to change, or should our income mix from our geographical regions change, our effective tax rate could be materially affected. Based on earnings before taxes of $242.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2007, each increase of $2.4 million in tax expense would increase our effective tax rate by 1%.

 

Revenue recognition

 

Revenue is recognized when title to a product has transferred and any significant customer obligations have been fulfilled. Standard shipping terms are generally FOB shipping point in most countries and, accordingly, title transfers upon shipment. In countries where title cannot legally transfer before delivery, we defer revenue recognition until delivery has occurred. Other than a few small software applications, we do not sell software products without the related hardware instrument as the software is embedded in the instrument. Our typical solution requires no significant production, modification or customization of the hardware or software that is essential to the functionality of the products. To the extent our solutions have a post shipment obligation, such as customer acceptance, revenue is deferred until the obligation has been completed. In addition, we also defer revenue where installation is required, unless such installation is perfunctory. We also generally maintain the right to accept or reject a product return in our terms and conditions and we also maintain accruals for outstanding credits. Distributor discounts are offset against

revenue at the time such revenue is recognized. Revenues from service contracts are recognized ratably over the contract period. Shipping and handling costs charged to customers are included in total net sales and the associated expense is recorded in cost of sales for all periods presented.

 

Warranty

 

We generally offer one-year warranties on most of our products. Product warranties are recorded at the time revenue is recognized for certain product shipments. While we engage in extensive product quality programs and processes, our warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, material usage and service costs incurred in correcting a product failure. If we experience claims or significant cost changes in material, freight and vendor charges, our cost of goods sold could be affected.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

See Note 2 to the audited consolidated financial statements.

 

 

Discussion of this item is included in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

 

The financial statements required by this item are set forth starting on page F-1 and the related financial schedule is set forth on page S-1.

 

 

None.

 

Conclusions Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Our management carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this annual report under the supervision and with the participation of our disclosure committee, our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in permitting us to comply with our disclosure obligations and ensure that the material information required to be disclosed is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2007 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our control over financial reporting.

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.

 

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007. In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control — Integrated Framework. Based on our assessment, we concluded that, as of December 31, 2007, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm that audited the financial statements included in this Report on Form 10-K, has issued an attestation report on our internal control over financial reporting which appears on page F-2.

 

 

None.

 

 

The executive officers of the Company are set forth below. Officers are appointed by the Board of Directors and serve at the discretion of the Board.

 

 

 

 

Robert F. Spoerry has been a Director since October 1996. Mr. Spoerry has been Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors since January 1, 2008 and served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company from 1993 to 2007. He also served as Head of Industrial and Retail (Europe) of the Company from 1987 to 1993. Mr. Spoerry has been Chairman of the Board of Directors since May 1998.

 

Olivier A. Filliol has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since January 1, 2008. Mr. Filliol served as Head of Global Sales, Service and Marketing of the Company from April 2004 to December 2007, and Head of Process Analytics of the Company from June 1999 to December 2007. From June 1998 to June 1999 he served as General Manager of the Company’s U.S. checkweighing operations. Prior to joining the Company, he was a Strategy Consultant with the international consulting firm Bain & Company working in the Geneva, Paris and Sydney offices.

 

William P. Donnelly has been Chief Financial Officer of the Company since August 2004. From July 2002 to August 2004, he was Head of Product Inspection and the Company’s pipette business, and he was Chief Financial Officer of the Company from 1997 to July 2002.

 

Peter Bürker has been Head of Human Resources of the Company since 1995. From 1992 to 1994 he was the Company’s General Manager in Spain, and from 1989 to 1991 he headed the Company’s operations in Italy.

 

Thomas Caratsch has been Head of Laboratory of the Company since December 2007. From October 2007 to December 2007 he served as the Head of Business Development. Prior to joining the Company in October 2007 he held various management positions with Hoffmann La Roche from 1987 to March 2007, including Head of Disetronic Medical Systems AG from January 2003 to August 2006.

 

Hans-Peter von Arb has been Head of Retail of the Company since June 2006. From 2001 until June 2006, he served as the Head of the Company’s Load Cell Competence Center. From 1996 to 2000 he held various management positions with the Company in Switzerland and Germany. Prior to joining the Company in 1996 he worked in the field of industrial laser systems.

 

Joakim Weidemanis has been Head of Product Inspection of the Company since January 2006. From August 2005 to January 2006, he served as Head of Business Development of the Product Inspection Division. Prior to joining the Company, he held various management positions at ABB, including from July 2000 to August 2005 when he served as President of the North American water metering systems business and from early 2004 as the Head of the global water metering division that became Elster Water Metering Systems.

 

Urs Widmer has been Head of Industrial since 1999. From 1984 to 1999 he served in various management functions within the Company, including most recently Head of Standard Industrial (Europe) from 1995 to

1999. Prior to 1984 he held various management positions with Siemens, a global manufacturer of solutions for information and communications, automation and control, power and transportation.

 

CEO and CFO Certifications

 

Our CEO submits an annual written affirmation to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) certifying the Company’s compliance with NYSE listing rules. The most recent annual affirmation was submitted in 2007.

 

Our CEO and CFO also provide certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in connection with our quarterly and annual financial statement filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The certifications relating to this annual report are attached as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2.

 

The remaining information called for by this item is incorporated by reference from the discussion in the sections “Proposal One: Election of Directors,” “Board of Directors — General Information,” “Board of Directors — Operation” and “Additional Information — Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the 2008 Proxy Statement.

 

 

The information appearing in the sections captioned “Board of Directors — General Information — Director Compensation,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Compensation Committee Report” and “Additional Information — Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the 2008 Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference herein.

 

 

The information appearing in the sections “Share Ownership” and “Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans as of December 31, 2007” in the 2008 Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference herein.

 

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions — None.

 

Director Independence — The information in the section “Board of Directors — General Information — Independence of the Board” in the 2008 Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference herein.

 

 

Information appearing in the section “Audit Committee Report” in the 2008 Proxy Statement is hereby incorporated by reference.

 

 

(a) Exhibits, Financial Statements and Schedules:

 

1. Financial Statements. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements included on page F-1.

 

2. Financial Statement Schedule. See Schedule II, which is included on page S-1.

 

3. List of Exhibits. See Exhibit Index included on page E-1.

 

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

 

Mettler-Toledo International Inc.
(Registrant)

 

Date: February 15, 2008

 

Olivier A. Filliol

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant as of the date set out above and in the capacities indicated.

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

 

 

 

METTLER-TOLEDO INTERNATIONAL INC.

 

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

To the Board of Directors and
Shareholders of Mettler-Toledo International Inc.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing on page F-1 present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Mettler-Toledo International Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2007 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedules appearing on page S-1 present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedules, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedules, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

 

As described in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements, effective January 1, 2006 the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for share-based compensation. As described in Note 11, at December 31, 2006, the Company changed the manner in which it records the funded status of its defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans. In addition, as described in Note 12 effective January 1, 2007 the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for uncertain tax positions.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

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

 

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

 

Columbus, Ohio

February 13, 2008

 

 

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

 

 

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