UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE

COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

x  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended October 4, 2008

 

OR

 

o  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Commission File Number 0-24395

 

bebe stores, inc.

 (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

California

 

94-2450490

(State or Jurisdiction of

 

(IRS Employer

Incorporation or Organization)

 

Identification Number)

 

400 Valley Drive

Brisbane, California 94005

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone: (415) 715-3900

 

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.    x   Yes    o   No

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer   o

 

Accelerated filer   x

 

 

 

Non-accelerated filer   o

 

Smaller reporting company   o

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b 2 of the Exchange Act).

  o Yes  x No

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share, outstanding as of October 31, 2008 was 89,005,459.

 

 

 



 

bebe stores, inc.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

Page No.

 

 

 

 

PART I.

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 4, 2008, July 5, 2008 and October 6, 2007

3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007

5

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

10

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

14

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 4.

Controls and Procedures

15

 

 

 

 

PART II.

 

OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

Legal Proceedings

16

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1A.

Risk Factors

16

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

19

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

19

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

19

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 5.

Other Information

19

 

 

 

 

 

ITEM 6.

Exhibits

19

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

20

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

21

 

2



 

PART I.         FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.         Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

As of
October 4,
2008

 

As of
July 5,
2008

 

As of
October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and equivalents

 

$

119,565

 

$

123,344

 

$

40,590

 

Short term marketable securities

 

 

 

283,925

 

Receivables (net of allowance of $1,215, $1,197 and $1,139)

 

9,976

 

7,953

 

10,247

 

Inventories

 

49,312

 

42,827

 

52,064

 

Deferred income taxes, net

 

9,283

 

9,290

 

9,071

 

Prepaid and other

 

19,538

 

16,215

 

19,900

 

Total current assets

 

207,674

 

199,629

 

415,797

 

Long term investments

 

228,155

 

235,751

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

137,022

 

133,128

 

121,193

 

Deferred income taxes, net

 

24,846

 

24,686

 

24,402

 

Other assets

 

4,007

 

4,569

 

4,218

 

Total assets

 

$

601,704

 

$

597,763

 

$

565,610

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

33,592

 

$

23,252

 

$

33,948

 

Accrued liabilities

 

29,529

 

38,958

 

28,493

 

Current portion of capital leases

 

 

38

 

206

 

Total current liabilities

 

63,121

 

62,248

 

62,647

 

Deferred rent and other lease incentives

 

47,736

 

46,229

 

43,584

 

Uncertain tax positions

 

3,401

 

3,401

 

5,278

 

Total liabilities

 

114,258

 

111,878

 

111,509

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock-authorized 1,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; no shares issued and outstanding

 

 

 

 

Common stock-authorized 135,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; issued and outstanding 89,004,780, 88,939,720 and 88,607,755 shares

 

89

 

89

 

89

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

141,962

 

139,795

 

130,155

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

(7,739

)

(261

)

12,180

 

Retained earnings

 

353,134

 

346,262

 

311,677

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

487,446

 

485,885

 

454,101

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

601,704

 

$

597,763

 

$

565,610

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

163,260

 

$

161,082

 

Cost of sales, including production and occupancy

 

89,958

 

84,567

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin

 

73,302

 

76,515

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

59,155

 

56,180

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

14,147

 

20,335

 

Interest and other income, net

 

3,030

 

3,695

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

17,177

 

24,030

 

Income tax provision

 

5,972

 

8,651

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

11,205

 

$

15,379

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share

 

$

0.13

 

$

0.17

 

Diluted earnings per share

 

$

0.12

 

$

0.16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

 

88,962

 

92,683

 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

 

90,038

 

94,177

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating income:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

11,205

 

$

15,379

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash compensation expense

 

1,739

 

2,973

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

6,201

 

5,392

 

Net loss on disposal of property

 

156

 

 

Deferred rent and other lease incentives

 

1,591

 

3,352

 

Deferred income taxes

 

 

(873

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Receivables

 

(1,791

)

(1,861

)

Inventories

 

(6,660

)

(7,867

)

Prepaid expenses and other

 

(3,071

)

(3,572

)

Accounts payable

 

10,392

 

5,878

 

Accrued liabilities

 

(5,185

)

(1,266

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

14,577

 

17,535

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

(8,830

)

(9,828

)

Purchase of marketable securities

 

 

(141,300

)

Proceeds from sales of marketable securities

 

2,200

 

184,475

 

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities

 

(6,630

)

33,347

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

374

 

388

 

Purchase of common stock

 

 

(66,950

)

Excess of tax benefit from options exercised

 

53

 

212

 

Cash dividends paid

 

(8,895

)

(9,354

)

Other

 

(38

)

(55

)

Net cash used by financing activities

 

(8,506

)

(75,759

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

 

(559

)

(24,877

)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

 

(3,220

)

(136

)

Cash and equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

123,344

 

65,603

 

End of period

 

$

119,565

 

$

40,590

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5



 

bebe stores, inc.

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets of bebe stores, inc. (the “Company”) as of October 4, 2008, July 5, 2008 and October 6, 2007, the condensed consolidated statements of income for the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007 and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X, without audit. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for annual financial statements. Therefore, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 5, 2008.

 

In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position at the balance sheet dates and the results of operations for the periods presented have been included. The condensed consolidated balance sheet at July 5, 2008, presented herein, was derived from the audited balance sheet included in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 5, 2008.

 

Our business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

 

FISCAL YEAR

 

Our fiscal year is a 52 or 53 week period, each period ending on the first Saturday after June 30.  Fiscal years 2009 and 2008 each include 52 weeks.

 

The three month periods ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007 each include 13 weeks.

 

INVENTORIES

 

The Company’s inventories consist of:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

July 5,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Raw materials

 

$

4,983

 

$

5,340

 

$

6,845

 

Merchandise available for sale

 

44,329

 

37,487

 

45,219

 

Inventories

 

$

49,312

 

$

42,827

 

$

52,064

 

 

EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings per share is computed as net earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through the exercise of dilutive stock options.

 

The following is a reconciliation of the number of shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

88,962

 

92,683

 

Incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options

 

1,076

 

1,494

 

Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

90,038

 

94,177

 

 

The number of incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options is calculated applying the treasury stock method.

 

Excluded from the computation of the number of diluted weighted average shares outstanding were options of 3,372,000, and 2,342,000 for the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007, respectively, which in each case would have been anti-dilutive.

 

6



 

COMMON STOCK PURCHASES

 

On September 13, 2007, the Company entered into an agreement with the Company’s former Vice Chairperson Neda Mashouf to purchase 5 million shares of its outstanding common stock beneficially owned by Ms. Mashouf at a price per share of $13.39, an aggregate purchase price of $66,950,000. The Company completed the purchase and retired the shares during the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 

Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income and other comprehensive income (income, expenses, gains and losses that bypass the income statement and are reported directly as a separate component of equity).  The Company’s comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income, unrealized losses on long term investments and foreign currency translation adjustments for all periods presented.

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Net income

 

$

11,205

 

$

15,379

 

Unrealized loss on long term investments

 

(5,396

)

 

Accumulated translation adjustments

 

2,082

 

3,041

 

Total comprehensive income

 

$

7,891

 

$

18,420

 

 

INVESTMENTS

 

We hold a variety of interest bearing auction rate securities (“ARS”) comprised of federally insured student loan backed securities and insured municipal authority bonds. As of October 4, 2008, our ARS portfolio totaled approximately $228 million classified as long term investments. Our ARS portfolio includes approximately 98% federally insured student loan backed securities and 2% municipal authority bonds. Our ARS portfolio is comprised of approximately 83% AAA rated investments, 5% AA rated investments and 12% A rated investments.  These ARS investments are intended to provide liquidity via an auction process that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either roll over their holdings or gain immediate liquidity by selling such interests at par. The recent uncertainties in the credit markets have affected our holdings in ARS investments and auctions for the majority of our investments in these securities have failed to settle on their respective settlement dates. Consequently, the investments are not currently liquid and we will not be able to access these funds until a future auction of these investments is successful. Maturity dates for these ARS investments range from 2010 to 2044 with principal distributions occurring on certain securities prior to maturity. We currently have the ability and intent to hold these ARS investments until a recovery of the auction process or until maturity.

 

Typically the fair value of ARS investments approximates par value due to the frequent resets through the auction process. While we continue to earn interest on our ARS investments at the maximum contractual rate, these investments are not currently

trading and therefore do not currently have a readily determinable market value. Accordingly, the estimated fair value of ARS no longer approximates par value.

 

We determined the estimated fair value of our investment in ARS as of October 4, 2008 using a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of our investments in ARS. The assumptions used in preparing the discounted cash flow model include estimates for interest rates, timing and amount of cash flows and expected holding periods of the ARS. Based on this assessment of fair value, as of October 4, 2008 we determined there was an additional decline in the fair value of our ARS investments of $5.4 million since July 5, 2008 bringing our total impairment charge to $13.2 million, with no related tax benefit, of which all was deemed temporary and the impairment charges have been recorded in the other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity.

 

We review our impairments in accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, and related guidance issued by the FASB and SEC in order to determine the classification of the impairment as “temporary” or “other-than-temporary”. A temporary impairment charge results in an unrealized loss being recorded in the other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity. Such an unrealized loss does not affect net income for the applicable accounting period. An other-than-temporary impairment charge is recorded as a realized loss in the condensed consolidated statement of income and reduces net income for the applicable accounting period. The differentiating factors between temporary and other-than-temporary impairment are primarily the length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and our current intent and ability to retain our investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

 

7



 

The valuation of our investment portfolio is subject to uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Factors that may impact its valuation include changes to credit ratings of the securities as well as to the underlying assets supporting those securities, rates of default of the underlying assets, underlying collateral value, discount rates and ongoing strength and quality of market credit and liquidity.

 

CREDIT FACILITIES

 

The Company has an unsecured commercial line of credit agreement with a bank, which provides for borrowings and issuance of letters of credit up to a combined total of $25 million and expires on March 31, 2009. The outstanding balance bears interest at either the bank’s reference rate (which was 5.0% as of October 4, 2008) or the LIBOR rate plus 1.75 percentage points. As of October 4, 2008, there were no outstanding borrowings, and there was $4.1 million outstanding in letters of credit.

 

This credit facility requires the Company to comply with certain financial covenants, including amounts for minimum tangible net worth, unencumbered liquid assets and profitability, and certain restrictions on making loans and investments.

 

STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

 

The following table summarizes the stock based compensation expense recognized under the Company’s stock plan during the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Stock Options

 

$

1,595

 

$

2,955

 

Nonvested stock awards/units

 

144

 

18

 

Total stock based compensation expense

 

$

1,739

 

$

2,973

 

 

Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options and nonvested stock awards/units totaled approximately $7.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively, as of October 4, 2008.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.1 years.  The weighted average fair values of stock options at their grant date during the three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007 were $4.10 and $5.31, respectively.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.  SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” which delayed the effective date of SFAS 157 for non-financial assets and liabilities, except for certain items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value at least annually.  The Company elected to partially adopt the provisions of SFAS No. 157 as of July 6, 2008 for financial instruments, as permitted by FSP 157-2. Although the partial adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not materially impact the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flow, the Company is now required to provide additional disclosures as part of its financial statements.  The Company does not expect the adoption of the remaining provisions of SFAS 157 (delayed by FSP 157-2) to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159,  “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities-Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115”.  SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates and report unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. The Company adopted SFAS No. 159 as of July 6, 2008 but elected not to record additional financial assets and liabilities at fair value.  As a result, the adoption of SFAS No. 159 did not impact the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

SFAS No. 157 establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers include: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as observable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions.

 

As of October 4, 2008, the Company held financial instruments that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. These included cash equivalents and long term investments. Cash equivalents consist of money market funds. Long term investments consist of auction rate securities (“ARS”) comprised of federally insured student loan backed securities and insured municipal authority bonds.

 

8



 

We determined the estimated fair value of our investment in ARS as of October 4, 2008 using a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of our investments in ARS. The assumptions used in preparing the discounted cash flow model include estimates for interest rates, timing and amount of cash flows and expected holding periods of the ARS. Based on this assessment of fair value, as of October 4, 2008 we determined there was an additional decline in the fair value of our ARS investments of $5.4 million since July 5, 2008 bringing our total impairment charge to $13.2 million, with no related tax benefit, of which all was deemed temporary and the impairment charges have been recorded in the other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity.

 

The following items are measured at fair value on a recurring basis subject to the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 157 at October 4, 2008:

 

Description

 

October 4, 2008

 

Using Quoted Prices
in Active Markets for
Identical Assets

 

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs

 

Significant Unobservable Inputs

 

 

 

 

 

(Level 1)

 

(Level 2)

 

(Level 3)

 

 

 

Fair value measurements at reporting date

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Cash equivalents

 

$

91,693

 

$

91,693

 

$

 

$

 

Long term investments

 

228,155

 

 

 

228,155

 

Total

 

$

319,848

 

$

91,693

 

$

 

$

228,155

 

 

The following table presents the Company’s activity for assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) as defined in SFAS No. 157 for the three months ended October 4, 2008:

 

 

 

Long Term Investments

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Balance at July 5, 2008

 

$

235,751

 

Transfers to Level 3

 

 

Total gains or (losses) (realized or unrealized)

 

 

 

Included in earnings

 

 

Included in other comprehensive income

 

(5,396

)

Purchases and settlements (net)

 

(2,200

)

Total

 

$

228,155

 

 

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

In October 2008,  the board of directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $30 million of the Company’s common stock. The Company intends, from time to time, as business conditions warrant, to purchase stock in the open market or through private transactions. Purchases may be increased, decreased or discontinued at any time without prior notice.

 

The plan does not obligate the Company to repurchase any specific number of shares and may be suspended at any time at management’s discretion. The Company currently has approximately 89 million shares outstanding.

 

On October 8, 2008, UBS notified the Company of a settlement offer whereby UBS would purchase eligible auction rate securities (“ARS”) it sold to the Company prior to February 13, 2008. Under the terms of the settlement, at the Company’s option, UBS will purchase eligible ARS from the Company at par value during the period June 30, 2010 through July 2, 2012. The Company has until November 14, 2008 to notify UBS if it will accept the terms of the settlement offer. UBS has offered to also provide the Company with access to “no net cost” loans up to 75% of the par value of eligible ARS until June 30, 2010. As of October 4, 2008, the Company held approximately $95.1 million, at par value, of eligible ARS with UBS. As of November 10, 2008, we have not entered into any ARS loan program agreements with UBS.

 

 

9



 

 LEGAL MATTERS

 

As of the date of this filing, the Company is involved in ongoing legal proceedings as described below.

 

A former employee sued the Company in a complaint filed on April 28, 2005 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California (case No. C050177) alleging violations under the Fair Labor Standards Act, specifically that the Company obligated her to buy and wear its brand clothing as a uniform, without reimbursement or credit, and the net effect of deducting the value of such required purchases from her wages would often result in her not being paid minimum wages. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of a class of hourly, non-managerial employees who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory and injunctive relief. The Company has negotiated a confidential settlement in this case which remains subject to court approval. One objection to the settlement has been filed by the plaintiff in the lawsuit described in the next paragraph of this section. The Company has accrued an amount that the Company believes reasonably estimates the potential liability, which did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

A former employee sued the Company in a complaint filed July 27, 2006 in the Superior Court of California, San Mateo County (case No. CIV 456550) alleging a failure to pay all wages, failure to pay overtime wages, failure to pay minimum wages, failure to provide meal periods, violation of Labor Code §450, violation of Labor Code §2802 and California Code of Regulations §11040(9)(A), statutory wage violations (late payment of wages), unlawful business practices under Business and Professions Code §16720 and §17200, conversion of wages and violation of Civil Code §52.1. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of current and former California bebe employees who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory, punitive, restitution and injunctive relief. In September 2008, the Company filed an opposition to Plaintiff’s recently filed motion to certify a class relating only to Plaintiff’s claim that the Company required employees to purchase and wear our product. The court is currently reviewing this matter.

 

A former employee sued the Company in a complaint filed September 20, 2007 in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey (case no. 07-cv-4514 (D.N.J.)) alleging various state and federal statutory breaches based on a failure to pay all wages, including overtime wages and bonus, failure to provide and/or pay for meal and rest break periods, failure to credit vacation time and other benefits and retaliation, wrongful termination, breach of contract, breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and unjust enrichment. Plaintiff purports to bring the action on behalf of current and former store management employees who are or were similarly situated. The complaint seeks compensatory, statutory and punitive damages and equitable relief. In April 2008, the Company filed both a Motion to Dismiss and an objection to Plaintiff’s Motion for Conditional Class Certification regarding Plaintiffs’ claims of violations under the Fair Labor Standard Act (“FLSA claims”). The Court dismissed a number of Plaintiffs claims, left in tact certain others (including state wage claims, individual federal wage claims and the retaliation claim) and separately denied Plaintiff’s certification motion pertaining to purported FLSA class claims.  A status conference will be heard in early November.

 

The Company is also involved in various other legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. None of these matters nor the matters listed above are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

The Company intends to defend ourself vigorously against each of these claims. However, the results of any litigation are inherently uncertain. The Company cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully defend ourself in these lawsuits. Where required, and/or otherwise appropriate, the Company has recorded an estimate of potential liabilities that the Company believes is reasonable. Any estimates are revised as further information becomes available.

 

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.  Statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions or that include words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “thinks,” and similar expressions are forward-looking statements.   Forward-looking statements include statements about our expected results of operations, capital expenditures and store openings.  Although we believe that these statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we cannot assure you that our goals will be achieved. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Form 10-Q, and we assume no obligation to update or revise them or provide reasons why actual results may differ. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, our ability to respond to changing fashion trends, miscalculation of the demand for our products, effective management of our growth, decline in comparable store sales performance, ongoing competitive pressures in the apparel industry, changes in the level of consumer spending or preferences in apparel, our ability to attract and retain key management personnel and/or other factors discussed in “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.

 

10



 

OVERVIEW

 

We design, develop and produce a distinctive line of contemporary women’s apparel and accessories. While we attract a broad audience, our target customer is a 21 to 35-year-old woman who seeks current fashion trends to suit her lifestyle. The “bebe look” appeals to a hip, sexy, sophisticated, body-conscious woman who takes pride in her appearance. The bebe customer expects value in the form of current fashion and high quality at a competitive price.

 

Our distinctive product offering includes a full range of separates, tops, sweaters, dresses, active wear and accessories in the following lifestyle categories:  career, evening, casual and active. We design and develop the majority of our merchandise in-house, which is manufactured to our specifications. The remainder of our merchandise is sourced directly from third-party manufacturers.

 

We market our products under the bebe, BEBE SPORT, bbsp, 2b bebe and bebe O brand names through our 307 retail stores, of which 213 are bebe stores, 64 are BEBE SPORT stores, 10 are 2b bebe stores, 19 are bebe outlet stores and 1 is a bebe accessories store as of October 4, 2008. These stores are located in 35 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. In addition, we have an on-line store at www.bebe.com and our licensees operate 22 international stores. During the three months ended October 4, 2008, we opened 5 stores, including 3 bebe stores, 1 BEBE SPORT store and 1 2b bebe store and closed 1 bebe store.  We expect to open approximately 20 stores, including approximately 10 bebe stores, 1 BEBE SPORT store, 9 2b bebe stores and convert all of our existing bebe outlet stores to 2b bebe stores during our fiscal 2009. We also plan to renovate 3 existing stores and relocate or expand 6 existing stores, resulting in square footage growth of approximately 5%.

 

bebe stores.  We were founded by Manny Mashouf, Chairman of the Board. We opened our first store in San Francisco, California in 1976, which was also the year we incorporated. We also operate one bebe accessory store that features a limited assortment of bebe merchandise, including outerwear, shoes and accessories.

 

BEBE SPORT. We launched BEBE SPORT during fiscal 2003 to address the performance and active lifestyle needs of the bebe customer.  We offer a selection of sportswear and footwear under the BEBE SPORT and bbsp brand names.

 

bebe outlets.  We utilize the outlets as a clearance vehicle for merchandise from our retail stores. In addition, the inventory includes a strong presentation of bebe logo merchandise and special cuts produced under the bebe O and 2b bebe labels exclusively for the outlet stores.  In fiscal 2009, we plan to convert all our existing bebe outlet stores to 2b bebe stores.

 

2b bebe stores.  During fiscal 2009, we plan to open 9 new 2b bebe stores in outlet centers which offer a strong presentation of bebe logo merchandise similar to our outlet stores and special cuts produced under the 2b bebe label.  We will also use these stores as a clearance vehicle for retail but on a much smaller scale.

 

On-line. bebe.com is an extension of the bebe store experience and provides a complete assortment of bebe and BEBE SPORT merchandise. It is also used as an advertising vehicle to communicate with our customers.  We are currently able to ship to customers in the United States and Canada.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The preparation of these financial statements requires the appropriate application of certain accounting policies, many of which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and their impact on amounts reported in our financial statements and related notes. Since future events and their impact cannot be determined with certainty, the actual results will inevitably differ from our estimates. Such differences could be material to the financial statements. We believe our application of accounting policies, and the estimates inherently required therein, are reasonable. Our most critical accounting policies are those related to revenue recognition, stock based compensation, inventories, marketable securities, impairment of long lived assets, uncertain tax positions, and liabilities for self-insurance. These accounting policies and estimates are constantly reevaluated, and adjustments are made when facts and circumstances dictate a change. Our accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 5, 2008. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with such discussion and with our condensed consolidated financials statements and related notes included in Part 1, Item 1 of this report.

 

11



 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Our fiscal year is a 52 or 53 week period, each period ending on the first Saturday after June 30.  Fiscal years 2009 and 2008 each include 52 weeks.  The three months ended October 4, 2008 and October 6, 2007 each include 13 weeks.

 

The following table sets forth certain financial data as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

Cost of sales, including production and occupancy (1)

 

55.1

 

52.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin

 

44.9

 

47.5

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses (2)

 

36.2

 

34.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

8.7

 

12.6

 

Interest and other income, net

 

1.9

 

2.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

10.6

 

14.9

 

Provision for income taxes

 

3.7

 

5.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

6.9

%

9.5

%

 


(1)           Cost of sales includes the cost of merchandise, occupancy costs, distribution center and production costs.

 

(2)           Selling, general and administrative expenses primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs.

 

Net Sales. Net sales increased to $163.3 million during the three months ended October 4, 2008 from $161.1 million for the comparable period of the prior year, an increase of $2.2 million, or 1.4%. The increase in sales is primarily due to a $15.2 million increase in stores not included in the comparable store sales, a $0.9 million increase in on-line sales, a $1.7 million increase in wholesale sales to international licensees and other revenue increases including royalty revenue and changes in deferred revenue related to our loyalty program.  These have been partially offset by a 10.8% decrease in comparable store sales totaling $15.2 million and a decrease of $2 million related to stores closed during the 12 month period ended October 4, 2008.

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

October 4,
2008

 

October 6,
2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales (In thousands)

 

$

163,260

 

$

161,082

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total net sales increase percentage

 

1.4

%

2.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comparable store sales decrease percentage

 

(10.8

)%

(9.3

)%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales per average square foot (1)

 

$

138

 

$

158

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square footage at end of period (In thousands)

 

1,143

 

1,013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of store locations:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

303

 

273

 

New store locations

 

5

 

6

 

Closed store locations

 

(1

)

0

 

Number of stores open at end of period

 

307

 

279

 

 


(1)           We calculate net sales per average square foot using net store sales and a monthly average store square footage.

 

12



 

Gross Margin. Gross margin decreased to $73.3 million during the three months ended October 4, 2008 from $76.5 million for the comparable period of the prior year, a decrease of $3.2 million, or 4.2%. As a percentage of net sales, gross margin decreased to 44.9% for the three months ended October 4, 2008 from 47.5% in the comparable period of the prior year.  The decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net sales was primarily due to unfavorable occupancy leverage and a lower merchandise margin as a result of higher markdowns.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses, which primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs, increased to $59.2 million during the three months ended October 4, 2008 from $56.2 million for the comparable period of the prior year, an increase of $3.0 million, or 5.3 %. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 36.2% during the three months ended October 4, 2008 from 34.9% in the comparable period of the prior year.  The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales from the prior year of 1.3% was primarily due to higher depreciation expense.

 

Interest and Other Income, Net. We generated approximately $3.0 million of interest and other income (net of other expenses) during the three months ended October 4, 2008 compared to approximately $3.7 million in the comparable period of the prior year. The decrease was primarily the result of lower investment in higher yielding tax-exempt investments and more investments in money market funds.

 

Provision for Income Taxes. Our effective tax rate decreased to 34.8% for the three months ended October 4, 2008 from 36.0% for the comparable period in the prior year primarily due to an increase in tax-exempt interest income as a percent of total pretax income.

 

Seasonality of Business and Quarterly Results

 

Our business varies with general seasonal trends that are characteristic of the retail and apparel industries. As a result, our typical store generates a higher percentage of our annual net sales and profitability in the second quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the holiday selling season, compared to the other quarters of our fiscal year. If for any reason our sales were below seasonal norms during the second quarter of our fiscal year, our annual operating results would be negatively impacted. Because of the seasonality of our business, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Our working capital requirements vary widely throughout the year and generally peak during the first and second fiscal quarters. At October 4, 2008, we had approximately $347.7 million of cash and equivalents and long term investments on hand of which approximately $228 million, net of an unrealized loss of $13.2 million, were invested in auction rate securities (“ARS”). Due to the recent failures of these auctions we have classified $228 million of these investments as long term investments. We do not anticipate the lack of liquidity in the ARS to impact our ability to fund our operations in the foreseeable future and believe we have sufficient cash and equivalents to fund ongoing operations. In addition, we have a revolving line of credit, under which we may borrow or issue letters of credit up to a combined total of $25 million. As of October 4, 2008, there were no cash borrowings outstanding under the line of credit, and letters of credit outstanding totaled $4.1 million.

 

At October 4, 2008, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $347.7 million held in accounts managed by third party financial institutions consisting of invested cash and cash in our operating accounts.  The invested cash is invested in interest bearing funds managed by third party financial institutions.  These funds invest in direct obligations of the government of the United States.  To date, except with respect to our ARS (discussed above and elsewhere in this report), we have experienced no loss or lack of access to our invested cash or cash equivalents; however, we can provide no assurances that access to our invested cash and cash equivalents will not be impacted by adverse conditions in the financial markets.

 

At any point in time we also have approximately $90 to $120 million in operating accounts that are with third party financial institutions.  These balances exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insurance limits.  While we monitor daily the cash balances in our operating accounts and adjust the cash balances as appropriate, these cash balances could be impacted if the underlying financial institutions fail or could be subject to other adverse conditions in the financial markets.  To date, we have experienced no loss or lack of access to cash in our operating accounts.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended October 4, 2008 was $14.6 million versus $17.5 million for the three months ended October 6, 2007. Cash provided by operating activities for the period was primarily generated by net income of $11.2 million adjusted for stock compensation of $1.7 million, depreciation of $6.2 million, deferred rent of $1.6 million and net loss on disposal of property of $0.2 million, as well as changes in working capital. The changes in working capital were primarily due to an increase in accounts payable of $10.4 million, offset by an increase in inventory of $6.7 million, an increase in prepaid expenses and other assets of $3.1 million, an increase in receivables of $1.8 million, and a decrease in accrued liabilities of $5.2 million.

 

Net cash used by investing activities for the three months ended October 4, 2008 was $6.6 million versus net cash provided by investing activities of $33.3 million for the three months ended October 6, 2007.  Cash used by investing activities for the period was primarily due to capital expenditures of $8.8 million related to the opening of new stores, partially offset by proceeds on our auction rate securities of $2.2 million.  We opened 5 new stores in the three months ended October 4, 2008 and expect to open approximately 24 stores during fiscal 2009.  We estimate that total capital expenditures will be approximately $32 million in fiscal 2009.

 

Net cash used by financing activities was $8.5 million for the three months ended October 4, 2008 versus net cash used by

 

13



 

financing activities of $75.8 million for the three months ended October 6, 2007.  Cash used by financing activities for the period was primarily due to payments of quarterly dividends for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 and the first quarter of fiscal 2009 totaling $8.9 million, partially offset by proceeds received from stock option exercises of $0.3 million and the related tax benefit of $0.1 million.

 

As of October 4, 2008, we had a balance of approximately $228 million in investments in ARS classified as long term investments.  Our ARS portfolio includes approximately 98% federally insured student loan backed securities and 2% municipal authority bonds. Our ARS portfolio is comprised of approximately 83% AAA rated investments, 5% AA rated investments and 12% A rated investments.  These ARS investments are intended to provide liquidity via an auction process that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either roll over their holdings or gain immediate liquidity by selling such interests at par. The recent uncertainties in the credit markets have affected our holdings in ARS investments and auctions for the majority of our investments in these securities have failed to settle on their respective settlement dates. Consequently, the investments are not currently liquid and we will not be able to access these funds until a future auction of these investments is successful. Maturity dates for these ARS investments range from 2010 to 2044 with principal distributions occurring on certain securities prior to maturity. We currently have the ability and intent to hold these ARS investments until a recovery of the auction process or until maturity.

 

On October 8, 2008, UBS notified the Company of a settlement offer whereby UBS would purchase eligible auction rate securities (“ARS”) it sold to the Company prior to February 13, 2008. Under the terms of the settlement, at the Company’s option, UBS will purchase eligible ARS from the Company at par value during the period June 30, 2010 through July 2, 2012. The Company has until November 14, 2008 to notify UBS if it will accept the terms of the settlement offer. UBS has offered to also provide the Company with access to “no net cost” loans up to 75% of the par value of eligible ARS until June 30, 2010. As of October 4, 2008, the Company held approximately $95.1 million, at par value, of eligible ARS with UBS.  As of November 10, 2008, we have not entered into any ARS loan or program agreements with UBS.

 

During our first quarter of fiscal 2008, we entered into an agreement with our former Vice Chairperson Neda Mashouf to purchase 5 million shares of our common stock beneficially owned by Ms. Mashouf at a price per share of $13.39, an aggregate purchase price of $66,950,000.  We may purchase additional shares from Ms. Mashouf or other shareholders in the future.

 

We believe that our cash on hand, together with our cash flows from operations, will be sufficient to meet our capital and operating requirements for at least the next twelve months. Our future capital requirements, however, will depend on numerous factors, including without limitation, liquidity of our auction rate securities, the size and number of new and expanded stores and/or store concepts, investment costs for management information systems, potential acquisitions and/or joint ventures, repurchase of stock and future results of operations.

 

ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We are exposed to market risks, which include changes in U.S. interest rates and, to a lesser extent, foreign exchange rates. We do not engage in financial transactions for trading or speculative purposes.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We currently maintain a portfolio of variable interest rate investments consisting of cash equivalents and long term investments comprised of auction rate securities (“ARS”). Our ARS portfolio includes approximately 98% federally insured student loan backed securities and 2% municipal authority bonds. Our ARS portfolio includes approximately 83% AAA rated investments, 5% AA rated investments and 12% A rated investments.  According to our investment policy, we may invest in taxable and tax-exempt instruments.  In addition, the policy establishes limits on credit quality, maturity, issuer and type of instrument. Marketable securities are classified as “available for sale”.  We do not use derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio.

 

All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents.  Investments are considered short term marketable securities if the original maturity is between three months and twelve months, or long term investments if the original maturity is greater than twelve months. Typically the fair value of ARS investments approximates par value due to the frequent resets through the auction process. While we continue to earn interest on our ARS investments at the maximum contractual rate, these investments are not currently trading and therefore do not currently have a readily determinable market value. Accordingly, the estimated fair value of ARS no longer approximates par value. We determined the estimated fair value of our investment in ARS as of October 4, 2008 using a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of our investments in ARS. The assumptions used in preparing the discounted cash flow model include estimates for interest rates, timing and amount of cash flows and expected holding periods of the ARS. Based on this assessment of fair value, as of October 4, 2008 we determined there was an additional decline in the fair value of our ARS investments of $5.4 million bringing our total impairment

 

14



 

charge to $13.2 million, with no related tax benefit, of which all was deemed temporary and the impairment charges have been recorded in the other comprehensive income component of shareholders’ equity. As of October 4, 2008, we classified all of our ARS investments as long term investments on our condensed consolidated balance sheet because of our inability to determine when our investments in ARS will settle.  We have modified our investment strategy and increased our investments in more liquid money market investments.  An immediate and uniform increase in market interest rate of 100 basis points from levels at October 4, 2008 would cause an additional decline of approximately 2%, or $6.0 million, in the fair market value of our investments in ARS.

 

On October 8, 2008, UBS notified the Company of a settlement offer whereby UBS would purchase eligible auction rate securities (“ARS”) it sold to the Company prior to February 13, 2008. Under the terms of the settlement, at the Company’s option, UBS will purchase eligible ARS from the Company at par value during the period June 30, 2010 through July 2, 2012. The Company has until November 14, 2008 to notify UBS if it will accept the terms of the settlement offer. UBS has offered to also provide the Company with access to “no net cost” loans up to 75% of the par value of eligible ARS until June 30, 2010. As of October 4, 2008, the Company held approximately $95.1 million, at par value, of eligible ARS with UBS. As of November 10, 2008, we have not entered into any ARS loan or program agreements with UBS.

 

The following table lists our cash equivalents and investments at October 4, 2008:

 

 

 

Book Value

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Cash equivalents

 

$

91,693

 

91,693

 

Weighted average interest rate (1)

 

1.70

%

 

 

Long term investments

 

$

228,155

 

228,155

 

Weighted average interest rate (1)

 

6.15

%

 

 

Total

 

$

319,848

 

319,848

 

 


(1)   Represents the weighted average interest rate for tax-exempt student loan and municipal bonds, and taxable and tax-exempt institutional money market instruments.

 

The interest payable on outstanding cash borrowings under our bank line of credit is based on variable interest rates and therefore affected by changes in market interest rates. As we have no outstanding cash borrowings, if interest rates rose significantly, our results from operations and cash flows would not be affected.

 

Foreign Currency Risks

 

We enter into a significant amount of purchase obligations outside of the United States, substantially all of which are negotiated and settled in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, have only minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange risks. We also operate a subsidiary for which the functional currency is the Canadian Dollar. In accordance with SFAS No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation”, assets and liabilities of Canada’s operations are translated into U.S. dollars at quarter-end rates, while income and expenses are translated at the weighted average exchange rates for the quarter. The related translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income as a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Fluctuations in exchange rates therefore impact our financial condition and results of operations, as reported in U.S. Dollars.   We do not hedge against foreign currency risks and believe that foreign currency exchange risk is immaterial.

 

ITEM 4.                  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report at the reasonable assurance level.

 

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended October 4, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

15



 

PART II                 OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1.                  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

See the Legal Matters section of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of legal proceedings.

 

ITEM 1A.               RISK FACTORS

 

Our past performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance because actual future results and trends may differ materially depending on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed below. In addition, historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods.

 

Factors that might cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward looking statements discussed elsewhere in this report, as well as affect our ability to achieve our financial and other goals, include, but are not limited to, those set forth below.  Except for changes to the general economic conditions risk factor, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 5, 2008.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS:

 

1. The success of our business depends in large part on our ability to identify fashion trends as well as to react to changing customer demand in a timely manner.  Consequently, we depend in part upon the customer response to the creative efforts of our merchandising, design and marketing teams and their ability to anticipate trends and fashions that will appeal to our consumer base. If we miscalculate our customers’ product preferences or the demand for our products, we may be faced with excess inventory. Historically, this type of occurrence has resulted in excess fabric for some products and markdowns and/or write-offs, which has impaired our profitability, and may do so in the future. Similarly, any failure on our part to anticipate, identify and respond effectively to changing consumer demands and fashion trends will adversely affect our sales.

 

2. If we are unable to obtain raw materials, or unable to find manufacturing facilities or if our manufacturers perform unacceptably, our sales may be negatively affected and our financial condition may be harmed. We do not own any manufacturing facilities and therefore depend on contractors and third parties to manufacture our products. We place all of our orders for production of merchandise and raw materials by purchase order and do not have any long-term contracts with any manufacturer or supplier. If we fail to maintain favorable relationships with our manufacturers and suppliers or are unable to obtain sufficient quantities of quality raw materials on commercially reasonable terms, it could harm our business and results of operations. We cannot assure you that contractors and third-party manufacturers (1) will not supply similar products to our competitors, (2) will not stop supplying products to us completely or (3) will supply products in a timely manner. Untimely receipt of products may result in lower than anticipated sales and markdowns which would have a negative impact on earnings. Furthermore, we have received in the past, and may receive in the future, shipments of products from manufacturers that fail to conform to our quality control standards. In such event, unless we are able to obtain replacement products in a timely manner, we may lose sales. Certain of our third-party manufacturers store our raw materials. In the event our inventory is damaged or destroyed while in storage and we are unable to obtain replacement raw materials, our earnings may be negatively impacted.

 

3. Our success depends on our ability to attract and retain qualified employees in order to support our existing business and future expansion.  From time to time we actively recruit qualified candidates to fill key executive positions from within the Company. There is substantial competition for experienced personnel, which we expect will continue. We compete for experienced personnel with companies who have greater financial resources than we do. In the past, we have experienced significant turnover of our executive management team and retail store personnel. We are also exposed to employment practice litigation due to the large number of employees and high turnover of our sales associates. If we fail to attract, motivate, and retain qualified personnel, it could harm our business and limit our ability to expand.

 

In addition, we depend on the expertise and execution of our key employees, particularly Manny Mashouf, our founder and Chairman of the Board, and Gregory Scott, our Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors. If we lose the services of Mr. Mashouf or Mr. Scott, or any key officers or employees, it could harm our business and results of operations.

 

4. If we are not able to successfully develop new concepts, including BEBE SPORT and 2b bebe, our revenue base and earnings may be impaired. From time to time, we may pursue new concepts.  If the BEBE SPORT and 2b bebe or other new concepts are not successful, our financial condition may be harmed.

 

5. General economic conditions, including increases in energy and commodity prices, that are largely out of our control may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.   We are sensitive to changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and locally.  Recessionary economic cycles, higher interest rates, higher fuel and other energy costs, inflation, deflation, increases in commodity prices, higher levels of unemployment, higher consumer debt levels, higher tax rates and other changes in tax laws or other economic factors that may affect consumer spending or buying habits could adversely affect the demand for products we sell in our stores. In addition, the recent turmoil in the financial markets may have an adverse effect on the U.S. and world economy, which could negatively impact consumer spending patterns. There can be no assurances that government responses to the disruptions in the financial markets will restore consumer confidence.

 

Furthermore, we could experience reduced traffic in our stores or limitations on the prices we can charge for our products, either of which could reduce our sales and profit margins and have a material adverse affect on our financial condition and results of operations. Also, economic factors such as those listed above and increased transportation costs, inflation, higher costs of labor, insurance and healthcare, and changes in other laws and regulations may increase our cost of sales and our operating, selling, general and administrative expenses, and otherwise adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

6. We cannot assure you that future store openings will be successful, and new store openings may impact existing stores. We expect to open approximately 20 stores in fiscal 2009, of which 10 will be bebe stores, 1 will be a BEBE SPORT store and 9 will be 2b bebe stores. We cannot assure you that the stores that we plan to open in fiscal 2009, or any other stores that we might open in the future, will be successful or that our overall operating profit will increase as a result of opening these stores. During fiscal 2009 we closed 2 bebe stores and do not anticipate closing any additional stores for the remainder of the fiscal year. For fiscal 2009, we plan to grow our operations primarily through the opening of new stores. Most of our new store openings in fiscal 2009 will be in existing markets. These openings may affect the existing stores’ net sales and profitability. Our failure to predict accurately the demographic or retail environment at any future store location could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our ability to effectively obtain real estate to open new stores depends upon the availability of real estate that meets our criteria, including traffic, square footage, co-tenancies, average sales per square foot, lease economics, demographics, and other factors, and our ability to negotiate terms that meet our financial targets. In addition, we must be able to effectively renew our existing store leases.

Failure to secure real estate locations adequate to meet annual targets as well as effectively managing the profitability of our existing fleet of stores could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

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7. We are subject to risks associated with our on-line sales. We operate an on-line store at www.bebe.com to sell our merchandise.

Although our on-line sales encompass a relatively small percentage of our total sales, our on-line operations are subject to numerous risks, including unanticipated operating problems, reliance on third-party computer hardware and software providers. The on-line operations also involve other risks that could have an impact on our results of operations including but not limited to diversion of sales from our stores, rapid technological change, liability for on-line content, security breaches, consumer privacy concerns, credit card fraud, and risks related to the failure of the computer systems that operate the website and its related support systems. In addition, given our use of a third party platform, we do not have direct control of certain aspects of our on-line business. We cannot assure you that our on-line store will continue to achieve sales and profitability growth or even remain at its current level.

 

8. Any serious disruption at our major facilities could have a harmful effect on our business. We currently operate a corporate office in Brisbane, California, a distribution facility in Benicia, California, and a design studio and production facility in Los Angeles, California. Any serious disruption at these facilities whether due to construction, relocation, fire, earthquake, terrorist acts or otherwise would harm our operations and could have a harmful effect on our business and results of operations. Furthermore, we have little experience operating essential functions away from our main corporate offices and are uncertain what effect operating such satellite facilities might have on business, personnel and results of operations.

 

9. We rely on information technology, the disruption of which could adversely impact our business. We rely on various information systems to manage our operations and regularly make investments to upgrade, enhance or replace such systems. To support our growth we initiated a three year IS&T strategic plan and we are currently entering year three of this plan. If we fail to successfully implement the plan, our business could be adversely affected.

 

10. We face significant competition in the retail and apparel industry, which could harm our sales and profitability. The retail and apparel industries are highly competitive and are characterized by low barriers to entry. We expect competition in our markets to increase. The primary competitive factors in our markets are: brand name recognition, sourcing, product styling, quality, presentation and pricing, timeliness of product development and delivery, store ambiance, customer service and convenience.  We compete with traditional department stores, specialty store retailers, business to consumer websites, off-price retailers and direct marketers for, among other things, raw materials, market share, retail space, finished goods, sourcing and personnel. Because many of these competitors are larger and have substantially greater financial, distribution and marketing resources than we do, we may lack the resources to adequately compete with them. If we fail to remain competitive in any way, it could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

11. Our business could be adversely impacted by unfavorable international political conditions. Due to our international operations, our sales and operating results are, and will continue to be, affected by international social, political, legal and economic conditions. In particular, our business could be adversely impacted by instability or changes resulting in the disruption of trade with the countries in which our contractors, suppliers or customers are located, significant fluctuations in the value of the dollar against foreign currencies or restrictions on the transfer of funds, or additional trade restrictions imposed by the United States and other foreign governments. Trade restrictions, including increased tariffs or quotas, embargoes, and customs restrictions could increase the cost or reduce the supply of merchandise available to the company and adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we purchase a substantial amount of our raw materials from China and our business and operating results may be affected by changes in the political, social or economic environment in China.

 

12. If we are not able to successfully protect our intellectual property our ability to capitalize on the value of our brand name may be impaired .. Even though we take actions to establish, register and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights, we cannot assure you that we will be successful or that others will not imitate our products or infringe upon our intellectual property rights. In addition, we cannot assure that others will not resist or seek to block the sale of our products as infringements of their trademark and proprietary rights.

 

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We are seeking to register our trademarks domestically and internationally. Obstacles may exist that may prevent us from obtaining a trademark for the bebe name or related names. We may not be able to register certain trademarks, purchase the right or obtain a license to use the bebe name or related names on commercially reasonable terms. If we fail to obtain trademark, ownership or license the requisite rights, it would limit our ability to expand. In some jurisdictions, despite successful registration of our trademarks, third parties may allege infringement and bring actions against us. In addition, if our licensees fail to use our intellectual property correctly, the reputation and value associated with our trademarks may be diluted.  Furthermore, if we do not demonstrate use of our trademarks, our trademark rights may lapse over time.

 

13. We may be required to record unrealized losses in future quarters as a result of the decline in value of our investments in auction rate securities or as a result of a change in our ability and intent to hold our investment in auction rate securities. We hold a variety of interest bearing auction rate securities (“ARS”) comprised of federally insured student loan backed securities and insured municipal authority bonds. These ARS investments are intended to provide liquidity via an auction process that resets the applicable interest rate at predetermined calendar intervals, allowing investors to either roll over their holdings or gain immediate liquidity by selling such interests at par. The recent uncertainties in the credit markets have affected our holdings in ARS investments and the majority of auctions for our investments in these securities have failed to settle on their respective settlement dates. Consequently, $228 million of our ARS are not currently liquid and we will not be able to access these funds until a future auction of these investments is successful or a buyer is found outside of the auction process. Maturity dates for these ARS investments range from 2010 to 2044 with principal distributions occurring on certain securities prior to maturity.

 

On October 8, 2008, UBS notified the Company of a settlement offer whereby UBS would purchase eligible auction rate securities (“ARS”) it sold to the Company prior to February 13, 2008. Under the terms of the settlement, at the Company’s option, UBS will purchase eligible ARS from the Company at par value during the period June 30, 2010 through July 2, 2012. The Company has until November 14, 2008 to notify UBS if it will accept the terms of the settlement offer. UBS has offered to also provide the Company with access to “no net cost” loans up to 75% of the par value of eligible ARS until June 30, 2010. As of October 4, 2008, the Company held approximately $95.1 million, at par value, of eligible ARS with UBS. As of November 10, 2008, we have not entered into any ARS loan or program agreements with UBS.

 

The valuation of our investment portfolio is subject to uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Factors that may impact its valuation include changes to credit ratings of the securities as well as to the underlying assets supporting those securities, rates of default of the underlying assets, underlying collateral value, discount rates and ongoing strength and quality of market credit and liquidity.

 

Although we currently have the ability and intent to hold these ARS investments until a recovery of the auction process or until maturity, if the current market conditions deteriorate further, or the anticipated recovery in market values does not occur, we may be required to record additional unrealized losses in other comprehensive income or impairment charges in future quarters.

 

14. If an independent manufacturer violates labor or other laws, or is accused of violating any such laws, or if their labor practices diverge from those generally accepted as ethical, it could harm our business and brand image. While we maintain a policy to monitor the operations of our independent manufacturers by having an independent firm inspect these manufacturing sites, and all manufacturers are contractually required to comply with such labor practices, we cannot control the actions or the public’s perceptions of such manufacturers, nor can we assure that these manufacturers will conduct their businesses using ethical or legal labor practices. Apparel companies can be held jointly liable for the wrongdoings of the manufacturers of their products. While we do not control their employees’ employment conditions or the manufacturers’ business practices, and the manufacturers act in their own interest, they may act in a manner that result in negative public perceptions of us and/or employee allegations or court determinations that we are jointly liable.

 

 RISKS RELATING TO OUR COMMON STOCK:

 

1. Our stock price may fluctuate because of the relatively low number of shares that can be publicly traded. The vast majority of our outstanding shares of our common stock are subject to trading restrictions. As of October 4, 2008, of the approximately 89,000,000 shares of our common stock then outstanding, approximately 27,600,000 shares were available to be publicly traded, and as a result, our stock price is vulnerable to market swings due to large purchases, sales and short sales of our common stock.

 

2. Because Manny Mashouf beneficially owns a substantial portion of the outstanding shares, other shareholders may not be able to influence the direction the company takes.  As of October 31, 2008, Manny Mashouf, the Chairman of the Board, beneficially owned approximately 56% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. As a result, he can control the election of directors and the outcome of all issues submitted to the shareholders. This may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire shares, may discourage acquisition bids, and could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to pay for shares of common stock. This concentration of stock ownership may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of our company.

 

3. Our significant shareholders hold a substantial portion of our stock which may result in the trading volatility or may

adversely affect our common stock.  As of October 31, 2008, Ms. Neda Mashouf currently owned approximately 13% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. As a result, any change in ownership of a significant portion of these shares, including sales by Ms. Mashouf, may result in trading volatility in our common stock or may adversely affect our stock price.

 

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4. Our sales, margins and operating results are subject to seasonal and quarterly fluctuations. Our business varies with general seasonal trends that are characteristic of the retail and apparel industries, such as the timing of seasonal wholesale shipments and other events affecting retail sales. As a result, our stores typically generate a higher percentage of our annual net sales and profitability in the second quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the holiday selling season, compared to other quarters.

 

In addition, our comparable store sales have fluctuated significantly in the past, and we expect that they will continue to fluctuate in the future. A variety of factors affect comparable store sales, including fashion trends, competition, current economic conditions, the timing of release of new merchandise and promotional events, changes in our merchandise mix, the success of marketing programs and weather conditions. Our ability to deliver strong comparable store sales results and margins depends in large part on accurately forecasting demand and fashion trends, selecting effective marketing techniques, providing an appropriate mix of merchandise for our customer base, managing inventory effectively, and optimizing store performance by closing underperforming stores. Such fluctuations may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

 

5. Failure to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 could negatively impact investor confidence. In order to meet the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in future periods, we must continuously document, test, monitor and enhance our internal control over financial reporting.  We cannot assure you that the periodic evaluation of our internal controls required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act will not result in the identification of significant control deficiencies and/or material weaknesses or that our auditors will be able to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Failure to maintain the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting or to comply with the requirements of this Act could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, financial condition and market price of our common stock.

 

ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS

 

(a) Exhibits.  The following is a list of exhibits filed as part of this Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Exhibit

 

Description

 

 

 

31.1

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

31.2

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

32.1

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

32.2

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

 

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SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

Dated November 10, 2008

 

 

 

bebe stores, inc.

 

 

 

/s/ Walter Parks

 

Walter Parks, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial
Officer

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit Number

 

Description

 

 

 

31.1

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer

31.2

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer

32.1

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer

32.2

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

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