UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

(Mark one)

 

x Annual Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 or

 

¨ Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from                to               .

 

Commission file no. 0-16469

 

Inter Parfums, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   13-3275609
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
551 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York   10176
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)   (Zip Code)
     
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:   212.983.2640

 

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

 

Title of each class   Name of exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $.001 par value per share   The Nasdaq Stock Market
     

 

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

 

Title of each class   Name of exchange on which registered
None   None

 

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

 

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

 

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 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 x  No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x  No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation SK is not contained herein and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10K or any other amendment to this Form 10K. ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer” and “large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

Large accelerated filer ¨ Accelerated filer x
   
Non-accelerated filer ¨ Smaller Reporting Company¨

 

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

Yes ¨  No x 

 

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. $497,203,804 of voting equity and $-0- of non-voting equity.

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of the registrant's $.001 par value common stock as of the close of business on the latest practicable date March 9, 2015: 30,978,603

 

Documents Incorporated By Reference: None.

 

 
 

 

Table of Contents Page
Note on Forward Looking Statements iii
Regulation S-K, Item 10(e), Use of non-GAAP Financial Measures in commission filings iv
PART I    
Item 1. Business 1
     
Item 1A. Risk Factors 18
     
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 28
     
Item 2. Properties 28
     
Item 3. Legal Proceedings 29
     
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 29
     
PART II    
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 30
     
Item 6. Selected Financial Data 33
     
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 34
     
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 49
     
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 51
     
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 52
     
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 52
     
Item 9B. Other Information 54
     
PART III    
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 55
     
Item 11. Executive Compensation 60
     
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 79
     
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 82
     
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 85
     
PART IV    
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 87
     
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS F-1
   
SIGNATURES 1

 

ii
 

 

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and if incorporated by reference into a registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, within the meaning of Section 27A of such act. When used in this report, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “intend,” “expect,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” or “continue” or similar expressions identify certain forward-looking statements. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such plans, intentions or expectations will be achieved.

 

Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this report. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements are set forth in this report, including under the heading “Risk Factors”. Such factors include: Our inability to successfully integrate or manage any future acquisitions; continuation and renewal of existing license and similar agreements; potential inability to obtain new licensing, arrangements or agreements for additional brands; potential reduction in sales of our fragrance and fragrance related products due to reduced consumer confidence as the result of a prolonged economic downturn, recession or terrorist attack in the United States, Europe or any of the other countries in which we do significant business; uncertainties and continued deterioration in global credit markets could negatively impact suppliers, customers and consumers; inability to protect our intellectual property rights; potential liability for infringement of third party brand names; product liability claims; effectiveness of our sales and marketing efforts and product acceptance by consumers; dependence upon third party manufacturers and distributors; dependence upon our management; competition; risks related to our foreign operations currency fluctuation and international tariff and trade barriers; compliance with governmental regulation; seasonal variability of our business; our ability to operate our business without infringing, misappropriating or otherwise violating the intellectual property rights of other parties; and possible liability for improper comparative advertising or “Trade Dress”.

 

These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the general or specific factors that may affect us. It should be recognized that other factors, including general economic factors and business strategies, may be significant, presently or in the future, and the factors set forth herein may affect us to a greater extent than indicated. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements set forth in this report. Except as may be required by law, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

iii
 

 

REGULATION S-K ITEM 10(e)

 

Regulation S-K, Item 10(e), “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures in commission filings,” prescribes the conditions for use of non-GAAP financial information in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

In July 2012, Burberry exercised its option to buy-out our license rights effective December 31, 2012. Due to the significance of this transaction as well as its non-recurring nature, exclusion of such gain in the non-GAAP financial measures provides a more complete disclosure and facilitates a more accurate comparison of current results to historic results. In addition, providing comparable sales information excluding sales relating to a terminated license provides investors with a more accurate picture of current sales trends. Based upon the foregoing, we believe that our presentation of the non-GAAP financial information included on pages 45, 49 and 51 of this Form 10-K is an important supplemental measure of operating performance to investors.

 

iv
 

 

PART I

 

Item 1. Business

 

Introduction

 

We are Inter Parfums, Inc. We operate in the fragrance business, and manufacture, market and distribute a wide array of fragrances and fragrance related products. Organized under the laws of the State of Delaware in May 1985 as Jean Philippe Fragrances, Inc., we changed our name to Inter Parfums, Inc. in July 1999. We have also retained our brand name, Jean Philippe Fragrances, for some of our mass market products.

 

Our worldwide headquarters and the office of our three (3) wholly-owned United States subsidiaries, Jean Philippe Fragrances, LLC and Inter Parfums USA, LLC, both New York limited liability companies, and IP Beauty, Inc. (formerly Nickel USA, Inc.), a Delaware corporation, are located at 551 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York 10176, and our telephone number is 212.983.2640. We also own 100% of Inter Parfums USA Hong Kong Limited indirectly through our 100% owned subsidiary, Inter Parfums USA, LLC.

 

Our consolidated wholly-owned subsidiary, Inter Parfums Holdings, S.A., and its majority-owned subsidiary, Interparfums SA, maintain executive offices at 4, Rond Point des Champs Elysees, 75008 Paris, France. Our telephone number in Paris is 331.5377.0000. Interparfums SA is the majority owner of two (2) distribution subsidiaries, Inter Parfums Gmbh and Inter Parfums srl, covering territories in Germany and Italy, respectively, and is the sole owner of two (2) distribution subsidiaries, Inter España Parfums et Cosmetiques, SL, covering the territory of Spain and Interparfums Luxury Brands, Inc., a Delaware corporation, for distribution of prestige brands in the United States. Interparfums SA is also the sole owner of Interparfums (Suisse) SARL, a company formed to hold and manage certain brand names, and Interparfums Singapore Pte., Ltd., an Asian sales and marketing office.

 

Our common stock is listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the trading symbol “IPAR”. The common shares of our subsidiary, Interparfums SA, are traded on the Euronext Exchange.

 

We maintain our internet website at www.interparfumsinc.com, which is linked to the Securities and Exchange Commission Edgar database. You can obtain through our website, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, interactive data files, current reports on Form 8-K, beneficial ownership reports (Forms 3, 4 and 5) and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.

 

1
 

 

Summary

 

The following summary is qualified in its entirety by and should be read together with the more detailed information and audited financial statements, including the related notes, contained or incorporated by reference in this report.

 

General

 

We operate in the fragrance business and manufacture, market and distribute a wide array of fragrances and fragrance related products. We manage our business in two segments, European based operations and United States based operations. Prestige fragrance products are produced and marketed by our European operations through our 73% owned subsidiary in Paris, Interparfums SA, which is also a publicly traded company, as 27% of Interparfums SA shares trade on the Euronext.

 

Our business is not capital intensive, and it is important to note that we do not own manufacturing facilities. We act as a general contractor and source our needed components from our suppliers. These components are received at one of our distribution centers and then, based upon production needs, the components are sent to one of several third party fillers which manufacture the finished product for us and deliver them to one of our distribution centers.

 

Our prestige products focus on niche brands, each with a devoted following. By concentrating in markets where the brands are best known, we have had many successful launches. We typically launch new fragrance families for our brands every year or two, with some frequent “seasonal” fragrances introduced as well.

 

The creation and marketing of each product family is intimately linked with the brand’s name, its past and present positioning, customer base and, more generally, the prevailing market atmosphere. Accordingly, we generally study the market for each proposed family of fragrance products for almost a full year before we introduce any new product into the market. This study is intended to define the general position of the fragrance family and more particularly its scent, bottle, packaging and appeal to the buyer. In our opinion, the unity of these four elements of the marketing mix makes for a successful product.

 

As with any business, many aspects of our operations are subject to influences outside our control. We discuss in greater detail risk factors relating to our business in Item 1A of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, and the reports that we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

European Operations

 

We produce and distribute prestige fragrance products primarily under license agreements with brand owners, and prestige product sales through our European operations represented approximately 79% of net sales for 2014. We have built a portfolio of prestige brands, which include Balmain, Boucheron, Jimmy Choo, Karl Lagerfeld, Lanvin, Montblanc, Paul Smith, S.T. Dupont, Repetto and Van Cleef & Arpels, whose products are distributed in over 100 countries around the world.

 

2
 

 

Burberry was our most significant license, and net sales of Burberry products represented 0%, 23% and 46% of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As discussed below, Burberry exercised its option to buy-out the license rights effective December 31, 2012 and we entered into a transition agreement that provided for certain license rights and obligations to continue through March 31, 2013. In addition, we own the Lanvin brand name for our class of trade, and license the Montblanc and Jimmy Choo brand names; for the year ended December 31, 2014, sales of product for these brands represented 18%, 22% and 16% of net sales, respectively. 

 

United States Operations

 

Prestige brand and specialty retail fragrance and fragrance related products are marketed through our United States operations and represented 21% of sales for the year ended December 31, 2014. These fragrance products are sold under trademarks owned by us or pursuant to license or other agreements with the owners of brands, which include Abercrombie & Fitch, Agent Provocateur, Anna Sui, Banana Republic, bebe, Dunhill, Gap, Hollister, Oscar de la Renta, and Shanghai Tang brands. 

 

Recent Developments

 

Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister

 

In December 2014, the Company entered into a 7-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute new perfumes and fragrance related products under the Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister brand names. The Company will distribute these fragrances internationally in specialty retailers, high-end department stores and duty free shops, and in the U.S., in duty free shops and potentially in Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister retail stores. The agreement is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as is customary in our industry. New men’s and women’s scents are planned for both Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister for 2016.

 

Burberry

 

Burberry exercised its option to buy-out the license rights effective December 31, 2012. In October 2012, the Company and Burberry entered into a transition agreement that provided for certain license rights and obligations to continue through March 31, 2013. The Company continued to operate certain aspects of the business for the brand including product development, testing, and distribution. The transition agreement provided for non-exclusivity for manufacturing, a cap on sales of Burberry products, a reduced advertising requirement and no minimum royalty amounts.

 

3
 

 

Prestige Products

 

General

 

We produce and distribute our prestige fragrance products primarily under license agreements with brand owners. Under license agreements, we obtain the right to use the brand name, create new fragrances and packaging, determine positioning and distribution, and market and sell the licensed products, in exchange for the payment of royalties. Our rights under license agreements are also generally subject to certain minimum sales requirements and advertising expenditures.

 

We are the owner of the Lanvin brand name and trademark for our class of trade and we have built a portfolio of licensed prestige brands. Our exclusive worldwide licenses for these brands expire on the following dates:

 

Brand Name   Expiration Date
     

Agent Provocateur

 

December 31, 2023

Anna Sui   December 31, 2021, plus two five-year optional terms if certain conditions are  met
Balmain   December 31, 2023
Boucheron   December 31, 2025, plus a 5-year optional term if certain sales targets are met
Dunhill   September 30, 2023, subject to earlier termination on September 30, 2019, if certain minimum sales are not met
Jimmy Choo   December 31, 2021
Karl Lagerfeld   October 31, 2032
Montblanc   December 31, 2020
Oscar de la Renta   December 31, 2025, plus a 5-year optional term if certain sales targets are met
Paul Smith   December 31, 2017
Repetto   December 31, 2024
Shanghai Tang   December 31, 2025, subject to earlier termination on December 31, 2019, if certain minimum sales are not met; subject to 2 year extensions unless 1 year advance notice not to renew is provided
S.T. Dupont   December 31, 2016
Van Cleef & Arpels   December 31, 2018, plus a 5-year optional term if certain sales targets are met

 

In connection with the acquisition of the Lanvin brand names and trademarks, we granted Lanvin the right to repurchase the brand names and trademarks in 2025 for the greater of €70 million (approximately $85 million) or one times the average of the annual sales for the years ending December 31, 2023 and 2024.

 

Prestige Fragrances 

 

Agent Provocateur— In July 2013, we entered into a 10.5-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under London-based luxury lingerie brand, Agent Provocateur. The agreement commenced on August 1, 2013 and is subject to certain minimum advertising expenditures as is customary in our industry and we have taken over distribution of selected fragrances within the brand’s current perfume portfolio. Agent Provocateur contributed to our sales in 2014 with the spring launches of Fatale and Fatale Pink in international markets followed by an exclusive U.S. launch at Saks Fifth Avenue.

 

4
 

 

Founded in 1994 by Joseph Corré, and Serena Rees and acquired by the private equity firm, 3i Group plc in 2007, Agent Provocateur is an iconic, globally-recognized brand, breaking new ground with every collection and rightfully earning its place as a benchmark brand in the world of lingerie. It is a brand that is confident, sensual and irreverent. Agent Provocateur celebrates and empowers women with a unique brand image renowned for being provocative and yet always leaving something to the imagination.

 

In recent years, Agent Provocateur has been opening doors at a steady growth and plans to continue to grow its door count, especially in Asia. Currently, its products which extend into swimwear, bridal and accessories, are sold globally, at 96 of its own boutiques and shop-in-shops within the finest department stores, as well as specialty retailers and on-line.

 

Anna Sui—In June 2011, we entered into a 10-year exclusive worldwide fragrance license agreement to produce and distribute perfumes and fragrance related products under the Anna Sui brand. Our rights under the agreement commenced on January 1, 2012 when we took over production and distribution of the existing Anna Sui fragrance collections.

 

We are working in partnership with American designer, Anna Sui, and her creative team to build upon the brand’s growing customer appeal, and develop new fragrances that capture the brand’s very sweet feminine girly aspect, combined with touch of nostalgia, hipness and rock-and-roll. Anna Sui’s devoted customer base, which spans the world, is especially strong in Asia.

 

We have high expectations for growing the Anna Sui fragrance franchise by developing new products and expanding the brand’s fragrance presence in North America, Europe and the Middle East. With help from the Fall 2013 launch of La Vie de Bohème, sales of Anna Sui products were up 29% in 2013, reaching approximately $25.8 million. Without a major new product launch and a difficult Asian market, Anna Sui brand sales declined 16% to approximately $21.5 million in 2014. A new Anna Sui fragrance family is in the works for 2015.

 

Balmain— In July 2011, we entered into a 12-year exclusive worldwide license agreement to create, produce and distribute perfumes and ancillary products under the Balmain brand. Our rights under the agreement commenced on January 1, 2012 when we took over the production and distribution of existing Balmain fragrances for men and women.

 

The Balmain couture house was founded in 1945 by Pierre Balmain. In recent years, Balmain has undergone a significant transformation. With the redefinition of its image in ready-to-wear, the brand has become a reference for style, while retaining its distinctive design codes from the haute couture universe. In doing so, the brand has become a major trendsetter. Our first new Balmain women’s fragrance, Extatic, made its debut in 2014 in selective distribution. We also have a men’s scent launching for Balmain in 2015.

 

5
 

 

Boucheron— In December 2010, we entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement for the creation, development and distribution of fragrance and related bath and body products under the Boucheron brand.

 

Boucheron is the French jeweler "par excellence". Founded by Frederic Boucheron in 1858, the House has produced some of the world’s most beautiful and precious creations. Today Boucheron creates jewelry and timepieces and, under license from global brand leaders, fragrances and sunglasses. Currently Boucheron operates through over 40 boutiques worldwide as well as an e-commerce site.

 

Our first new fragrance under the Boucheron brand, Jaïpur Bracelet, debuted in 2012, and Boucheron Place Vendôme, which has a beautiful glasswork bottle with a cabochon, the emblematic stone of House Boucheron, was released in Fall 2013. Boucheron fragrances sales increased 10% to $23.1 million in 2013, driven in particular by the launch of the Boucheron Place Vendôme line. With a difficult comparison and no major product launch, brand sales declined 20% in 2014. For 2015, we are launching a new fragrance duo for the Boucheron brand around its iconic Quatre ring.

 

Dunhill—In December 2012, we entered into a 10-year exclusive worldwide fragrance license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and fragrance related products under the Dunhill brand, which commenced on April 3, 2013.

  

The house of Dunhill was established in 1893 and since that time has been dedicated to providing high quality men’s luxury products, with core collections offered in menswear, leather goods and accessories. The brand has global reach through a premium mix of self-managed retail outlets, high-level department stores and specialty retailers. Known for its commitment to elegance and innovation and being a leader of British men’s style, the brand continues to blend innovation and creativity with traditional craftsmanship.

 

We took over production and distribution of Dunhill legacy fragrances beginning in April 2013, and we introduced a legacy scent flanker, Desire Black, which launched in the Spring of 2014. We have supported the new men’s scent with a distribution strategy that recognizes and utilizes Dunhill’s luxury positioning, along with brand appropriate marketing materials and a media campaign. Dunhill legacy scents added $16.2 million to 2014 sales, up 25% from $13.0 million in 2013. For 2015, we are rolling out the new Dunhill scent, Icon.

 

Jimmy Choo— In October 2009, we entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement for the creation, development and distribution of fragrances under the Jimmy Choo brand.

 

With a heritage in luxury footwear, Jimmy Choo today encompasses a complete luxury lifestyle accessory brand with women's shoes, handbags, small leather goods, sunglasses and eyewear. Its products are available in the growing network of Jimmy Choo freestanding stores as well as in the most prestigious department, specialty and duty free stores worldwide.

 

6
 

 

We believe that this relationship with Jimmy Choo offers a perfect fit with our strategy of expanding our brand portfolio to include new universes and represents an important milestone in our development. This brand possesses the quintessential qualities to ensure the ambitious development of fragrance lines that will be supported by significant advertising commitments over the coming years.

  

Our first fragrance under the Jimmy Choo brand, a signature scent, rolled out globally in 2011. Jimmy Choo product sales exceeded our expectations and sales topped $40 million in that first year. Sales growth has continued, reaching $51.5 million in 2012 and $72.4 million in 2013, a year marked by the launch by our second Jimmy Choo line, Flash, in February. The successful 2014 launch of Jimmy Choo Man enabled Jimmy Choo brand sales to maintain its positive sales momentum resulting in 2014 brand sales of $78.5 million, up 8% as compared to 2013.

 

Karl Lagerfeld— In October 2012, we entered into a 20-year worldwide license agreement with Karl Lagerfeld B.V., the internationally renowned haute couture fashion house, to create, produce and distribute perfumes under the Karl Lagerfeld brand.

 

Under the creative direction of Karl Lagerfeld, one of the world’s most influential and iconic designers, the Lagerfeld Portfolio represents a modern approach to distribution, an innovative digital strategy and a global 360 degree vision that reflects the designer’s own style and soul. Our first new line, a premium namesake duo scent for both men and women, launched in the Spring of 2014 and yielded $24.2 million in sales in 2014.

 

Lanvin— In July 2007, we acquired the worldwide rights to the Lanvin brand names and international trademarks listed in Class 3, our class of trade. A synonym of luxury and elegance, the Lanvin fashion house, founded in 1889 by Jeanne Lanvin, expanded into fragrances in the 1920s.

 

With Lanvin brand sales of $90.3 million in 2014, Lanvin now is our second largest brand. Lanvin fragrances occupy an important position in the selective distribution market in France, Europe and Asia. Current lines in distribution include: Arpège (1927), Lanvin L’Homme (1997), Eclat d’Arpège (2002), Rumeur 2 Rose (2007), Jeanne Lanvin (2008), Marry Me! (2010), Jeanne Lanvin Couture (2012), Lanvin Me (2013), which was designed by Lanvin designer, Alber Elbaz, and Me L’Eau (2014). Our Eclat d’Arpège line accounts for approximately 50% of this brand’s sales.

 

Montblanc— In January 2010, we entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement for the creation, development and distribution of fragrances and fragrance related products under the Montblanc brand.

 

Montblanc has achieved a world-renowned position in the luxury segment and has become a purveyor of exclusive products, which reflect today’s exacting demands for timeless design, tradition and master craftsmanship. Through its leadership positions in writing instruments, watches and leather goods, promising growth outlook in women's jewelry, active presence in more than 70 countries, network of more than 350 boutiques worldwide and high standards of product design and quality, Montblanc has quickly grown to be our largest and fastest growing fragrance brand.

 

7
 

 

In 2011, we launched our first new Montblanc fragrance, Legend, which quickly became our best-selling men’s line. In 2012, we launched our first women’s fragrance under the Montblanc brand, and our second men’s line, Emblem, was launched in 2014. Montblanc product sales increased 40% in 2013 to $83.2 million and in 2014 sales of Montblanc fragrances topped $110 million, a 33% increase from 2013. Montblanc has now become our top selling brand.

 

Oscar de la Renta— In October 2013, we entered into a 12-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under the Oscar de la Renta brand, which closed in December 2013. In 2014, we took over distribution of fragrances within the brand’s current perfume portfolio generating $15.8 million in sales. Our first new women’s fragrance under the Oscar de la Renta brand, Extraordinary, is planned for an early 2015 launch.

 

Oscar de la Renta is one of the world’s leading luxury goods firms. The New York-based company was established in 1965, and encompasses a full line of women’s accessories, bridal, childrenswear, fragrance, beauty and home goods, in addition to its internationally renowned signature women’s ready to wear collection. Oscar de la Renta products are sold globally in fine department and specialty stores, oscardelarenta.com and through wholesale channels.

 

Paul Smith— We signed an exclusive worldwide license agreement with Paul Smith in December 1998 for the creation, development and distribution of Paul Smith perfumes. In 2008, we extended this license for an additional seven years through December 31, 2017.

 

Paul Smith is an internationally renowned British designer who creates fashion with a clear identity. Paul Smith has a modern style which combines elegance, inventiveness and a sense of humor and enjoys a loyal following, especially in the UK and Japan. Fragrances include: Paul Smith (2000), Paul Smith Extrême (2002), Paul Smith Rose (2007), Paul Smith Man 2 (2010) and Optimistic (2011). A new men’s and women’s line, Portrait, was released in Spring 2013 and Extreme Sport for men was introduced in 2014.

 

Repetto— In December 2011, we entered into a 13-year exclusive worldwide license agreement to create, produce and distribute perfumes and ancillary products under the Repetto brand.

 

Created in 1947 by Rose Repetto at the request of her son, dancer and choreographer Roland Petit, Repetto is today a legendary name in the world of dance. For a number of years it has developed timeless and must-have collections with a fully modernized signature style ranging from dance shoes, ballet slippers, flat shoes, and sandals to more recently handbags and high-end accessories.

 

With an ambitious plan of international expansion focusing mainly on Europe, the brand is now branching out into Asia, notably South Korea and Japan where its mix of cross-generational appeal and French chic has been met with unprecedented enthusiasm. Our first fragrance line was launched in 2013 generating first year sales of $12 million. Sales reached $12.4 million in 2014 as our Repetto fragrances experienced gradual sales penetration in France, and slower acceptance internationally.

 

8
 

 

Shanghai Tang— In July 2013, we created a wholly-owned Hong Kong subsidiary, Inter Parfums USA Hong Kong Limited, which entered into a 12-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under China’s leading luxury brand, Shanghai Tang. The agreement commenced on July 1, 2013 and is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. Our first Shanghai Tang fragrance collection for men and women is set for a 2015 rollout.

 

Founded in 1994, Shanghai Tang is the leading Chinese luxury brand with international recognition and distribution. As the global curator of modern Chinese chic, Shanghai Tang champions the richness and beauty of the Chinese culture through its contemporary lifestyle offer of apparel and accessories for men, women and children, as well as home collections. Shanghai Tang supports an international network of 45 boutiques, including the world’s largest lifestyle flagship – The Shanghai Tang Mansion in Hong Kong, and its largest flagship Boutique, The Cathay Mansion in Shanghai, China and on-line.

 

S.T. Dupont— In June 1997, we signed an exclusive worldwide license agreement with S.T. Dupont for the creation, manufacture and distribution of S.T. Dupont perfumes. In 2011, the agreement was renewed and now runs through December 31, 2016. S.T. Dupont is a French luxury goods house founded in 1872, which is known for its fine writing instruments, lighters and leather goods.

 

S.T. Dupont fragrances include: S.T. Dupont (1998), S.T. Dupont Essence Pure (2002), S.T. Dupont Noir (2006), S.T. Dupont Blanc (2007), S.T. Dupont Passenger (2008), S.T. Dupont Intense (2009), S.T. Dupont Passenger Cruise (2011), and 58 avenue Montaigne (2012). In 2014, we launched our So Dupont duo, as well as a new men’s line, Paris Saint Germain.

 

Van Cleef & Arpels— In September 2006, we entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement for the creation, development and distribution of fragrance and related bath and body products under the Van Cleef & Arpels brand and related trademarks.

 

Van Cleef & Arpels fragrances in current distribution include: First (1976), Van Cleef pour Homme (1978), Tsar (1989), Van Cleef (1994), First 1er Bouquet (2008), Féerie (2008), Collection Extraordinaire (2009), Oriens (2010), Midnight in Paris (2010).

 

In 2013, sales increased 11% to $25.5 million due to the launch of the new Rêve line and steady performances by the First and Collection Extraordinaire. Although overall brand sales declined 7% in 2014, certain lines like Collection Extraordinaire, performed exceptionally well. We have a new women’s scent for Van Cleef & Arpels prepared for a 2015 debut.

 

9
 

 

Specialty Retail Products

 

In connection with our specialty retail and designer agreements in our United States operations, we design, produce and manufacture fragrance and fragrance related products for brand name specialty retailers. These agreements are very similar to our prestige license agreements, as they include a licensing component for worldwide sales to select third party retailers and distributors in return for royalty payments and required advertising expenditures as are customary in our industry, in addition to the possibility of selling product we create to the specialty retailer for sale in its retail stores. Our exclusive agreements for specialty retail brands and their expiration dates are as follows:

 

Brand Name Expiration Date
   
Abercrombie & Fitch  
and Hollister December 31, 2021
The Gap August 31, 2015 for 1969 Fragrances only
Banana Republic December 31, 2016  
bebe Stores June 30, 2017 plus three, 3-year optional terms, if certain sales targets are met

 

Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister

 

In December 2014, the Company entered into a 7-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute new perfumes and fragrance related products under the Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister brand names. The Company will distribute these fragrances internationally in specialty retailers, high-end department stores and duty free shops, and in the U.S., in duty free shops and potentially in Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister retail stores. New men’s and women’s scents are planned for both Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister for 2016.

 

Gap and Banana Republic

 

In July 2005, we entered into an exclusive agreement with The Gap, Inc. to develop, produce, manufacture and distribute fragrance and fragrance related products for Gap and Banana Republic brand names to be sold in Gap and Banana Republic retail stores in the United States and Canada. In March 2006, the agreement was amended to include fragrance and fragrance related products for Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Factory Stores in the United States and Canada. In 2008, we expanded our relationship with Gap Inc. to include a licensing agreement for international distribution of personal care products created for the Gap and Banana Republic brands.

 

After several renewals, our rights to develop, produce, manufacture and distribute fragrances for Gap brand names to be sold in Gap retail stores in the United States and Canada expired in December 2014, and we have a verbal agreement to retain the right to sell certain products internationally until August 31, 2015.

 

10
 

 

In 2015, we reached a verbal agreement to renew our rights to develop, produce, manufacture and distribute fragrances for Banana Republic brand names to be sold in Banana Republic retail stores in the United States and Canada and our license agreement for international distribution of fragrances of Banana Republic stores as well as select specialty and department stores outside the United States, including duty-free and other travel related retailers. Banana Republic products currently available include: Classic (1995), W (1995), Alabaster (2006), Rosewood (2006), Slate (2006), Black Walnut (2006), Cordovan (2007), Malachite (2007), and Wildbloom (2011). To complement the women’s scent Wildbloom , we launched several brand extensions, Wildbloom Vert and Wildblue in 2012 followed in 2013, with Wildbloom Rouge and Wildblue Noir. In 2014, we launched Modern, a new collection for men and women.

 

bebe Stores

 

In July 2008, we entered into an exclusive six-year worldwide agreement with bebe Stores, Inc., under which we design, manufacture and supply fragrance, bath and body products and color cosmetics for company-owned bebe stores in the United States and Canada, as well as select specialty and department stores worldwide. We have incorporated bebe’s signature look into fragrance and cosmetics for the brand’s strong, hip, sexy, and sophisticated clientele.

 

Our bebe signature fragrance was unveiled at more than 200 bebe stores in the U.S. in August 2009, which was followed by worldwide distribution shortly thereafter. Scents currently available for domestic and international markets include: bebe (2009), bebe Sheer (2010) and bebe gold (2011). In 2012, we introduced a new bebe scent, Wishes & Dreams and we introduced two other scents, bebe desire and bebe Nouveau in 2013. In 2014, we introduced bebe Nouveau Chic and a new fragrance family is planned for later in 2015.

 

Business Strategy

 

Focus on prestige beauty brands. Prestige beauty brands are expected to contribute significantly to our growth. We focus on developing and launching quality fragrances utilizing internationally renowned brand names. By identifying and concentrating in the most receptive market segments and territories where our brands are known, and executing highly targeted launches that capture the essence of the brand, we have had a history of successful launches. Certain fashion designers and other licensors choose us as a partner because our Company’s size enables us to work more closely with them in the product development process as well as our successful track record.

 

Grow portfolio brands through new product development and marketing. We grow through the creation of fragrance family extensions within the existing brands in our portfolio. Every year or two, we create a new family of fragrances for each brand in our portfolio. We frequently introduce “seasonal” fragrances as well. With new introductions, we leverage our ability and experience to gauge trends in the market and further leverage the brand name into different product families in order to maximize sales and profit potential. We have had success in introducing new fragrance families (sub-brands, or flanker brands) within our brand franchises. Furthermore, we promote the smooth and consistent performance of our prestige perfume operations through knowledge of the market, detailed analysis of the image and potential of each brand name, a “good dose” of creativity and a highly professional approach to international distribution channels.

 

11
 

 

Continue to add new brands to our portfolio, through new licenses or acquisitions. Prestige brands are the core of our business and we intend to add new prestige beauty brands to our portfolio. Over the past twenty years, we have built our portfolio of well-known prestige brands through acquisitions and new license agreements. We intend to further build on our success in prestige fragrances and pursue new licenses and acquire new brands to strengthen our position in the prestige beauty market. To that end, as of December 31, 2014, we had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately $280 million, which we believe should assist us in entering new brand licenses or outright acquisitions. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to enter into any future agreements, or acquire brands or assets on terms favorable to us, or if we do, that any such transaction will be successful. We identify prestige brands that can be developed and marketed into a full and varied product families and, with our technical knowledge and practical experience gained over time, take licensed brand names through all phases of concept, development, manufacturing, marketing and distribution.

 

Expand existing portfolio into new categories. We intend to continue to broaden our product offering beyond the fragrance category and offer other fragrance related products and personal care products under some of our existing brands. We believe such product offerings meet customer needs and further strengthen customer loyalty.

 

Continue to build global distribution footprint. Our business is a global business and we intend to continue to build our global distribution footprint. In order to adapt to changes in the environment and our business, we have modified our distribution model and have formed and are operating joint ventures or distribution subsidiaries in the major markets of the United States, Italy, Spain and Germany for distribution of prestige fragrances. We may look into future joint ventures arrangements or acquire distribution companies within other key markets to distribute certain of our prestige brands. While building a global distribution footprint is part of our long-term strategy, we may need to make certain decisions based on the short-term needs of the business. We believe that in certain markets, vertical integration of our distribution network may be one of the keys to future growth of our Company, and ownership of such distribution should enable us to better serve our customers’ needs in local markets and adapt more quickly as situations may determine.

 

Build specialty retail business. We believe that certain specialty retailers are growing their beauty business by partnering with companies like Inter Parfums. This partnership enables specialty retailers to have a continuous pipeline of new fragrance products developed for sale in their stores, while benefitting from worldwide advertising and distribution of such products bearing their brand names primarily outside the United States.

 

Production and Supply

 

The stages of the development and production process for all fragrances are as follows:

 

·Simultaneous discussions with perfume designers and creators (includes analysis of esthetic and olfactory trends, target clientele and market communication approach);

 

·Concept choice;

 

12
 

 

·Produce mock-ups for final acceptance of bottles and packaging;

 

·Receive bids from component suppliers (glass makers, plastic processors, printers, etc.) and packaging companies;

 

·Choose suppliers;

 

·Schedule production and packaging;

 

·Issue component purchase orders;

 

·Follow quality control procedures for incoming components; and

 

·Follow packaging and inventory control procedures.

 

Suppliers who assist us with product development include:

 

·Independent perfumery design companies (Aesthete, Carré Basset, PI Design, Cent Degres);

 

·Perfumers (IFF, Givaudan, Firmenich, Robertet, Takasago, Mane) which create a fragrance consistent with our expectations and, that of the fragrance designers and creators;

 

·Bottle manufacturers (Pochet du Courval, SGD , Verreries Brosse, Bormioli Luigi, Stoelzle Masnières ), caps (Qualipac , ALBEA , RPC, Codiplas, Jackel , CMSI ) or boxes (Edelmann, Autajon , Alliora, Nortier , Draeger);

 

·Production specialists who carry out packaging (CCI, Edipar , Jacomo, SDPP, MF Productions, Biopack) or logistics (SAGA for storage, order preparation and shipment).

 

For our prestige products, component and contract filling needs are purchased from many different suppliers located around the world. The suppliers' accounts for our European operations are primarily settled in euro and for our United States operations, suppliers' accounts are primarily settled in U.S. dollars. The components for our specialty retail products are sourced and our specialty retail products are primarily produced and filled in the United States, and our mass market products are primarily manufactured, produced or filled in the United States or China. 

 

13
 

 

Marketing and Distribution

 

Prestige Products

 

Our prestige products are distributed in over 100 countries around the world through a selective distribution network. For the majority of our international distribution of prestige products, we contract with independent distribution companies specializing in luxury goods. In each country, we designate anywhere from one to three distributors on an exclusive basis for one or more of our name brands. We also distribute our prestige products through a variety of duty-free operators, such as airports and airlines and select vacation destinations.

 

As our business is a global one, we intend to continue to build our global distribution footprint. For distribution of prestige brands of our European operations we presently operate through our distribution subsidiaries in the major markets of Italy, Spain and Germany for distribution of prestige fragrances. In addition we formed Interparfums Luxury Brands, Inc., a Delaware corporation and subsidiary of our French subsidiary Interparfums SA, for distribution of European based prestige brands in the United States. It has also entered into an agreement with Clarins Fragrance Group US (a Division of Clarins Group) effective January 1, 2011 to share sales and distribution personnel and facilities.

 

Our third party distributors vary in size depending on the number of competing brands they represent. This extensive and diverse network together with our own distribution subsidiaries provides us with a significant presence in over 100 countries around the world.

 

Approximately 40% of our European based prestige fragrance net sales are denominated in U.S. dollars. We address certain financial exposures through a controlled program of risk management that includes the use of derivative financial instruments.  We primarily enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates. 

 

The business of our European operations has become increasingly seasonal due to the timing of shipments by our majority-owned distribution subsidiaries to their customers, which are weighted to the second half of the year.

 

Specialty Retail Products

 

For products sold to specialty retailers for sale in their stores in the United States, we do not typically incur any marketing and distribution expenses. Such expenses are the responsibility of the specialty retailer. We do not presently market and distribute Banana Republic products to third parties in the United States although we do market and distribute Banana Republic product internationally, including duty-free and other travel-related retailers. With respect to the Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister and bebe brands, we have the right to distribute product to their stores as well as to approved retailers and distributors in the United States and internationally, including duty-free and other travel-related retailers.

 

We utilize our in house sales team to reach our third party distributors and customers outside the United States. In addition, the business of our United States operations has become increasingly seasonal as shipments to our specialty retail customers are weighted toward the second half of the year.

 

14
 

 

Geographic Areas

 

United States export sales were approximately $52.3 million, $50.4 million and $38.8 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Consolidated net sales to customers by region are as follows:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
(in thousands)  2014   2013   2012 
North America  $134,600   $154,300   $175,400 
Europe   177,900    215,600    241,300 
Central and South America   49,200    42,400    53,000 
Middle East   40,300    43,300    62,100 
Asia   85,500    98,600    115,300 
Other   11,800    9,400    7,000 
                
   $499,300   $563,600   $654,100 

 

Consolidated net sales to customers in major countries are as follows:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
(in thousands)  2014   2013   2012 
United States  $128,000   $150,000   $167,000 
United Kingdom  $37,000   $46,000   $48,000 
France  $50,000   $47,000   $46,000 

 

Competition

 

The market for fragrances and fragrance related products is highly competitive and sensitive to changing preferences and demands. The prestige fragrance industry is highly concentrated around certain major players with resources far greater than ours. We compete with an original strategy, regular and methodical development of quality fragrances for a growing portfolio of internationally renowned brand names including the brand names of specialty retailers.

 

Inventory

 

We purchase raw materials and component parts from suppliers based on internal estimates of anticipated need for finished goods, which enables us to meet production requirements for finished goods. We generally deliver product to customers within 72 hours of the receipt of their orders. Our business is not capital intensive, and it is important to note that we do not own manufacturing facilities. We act as a general contractor and source our needed components from our suppliers. These components are received at one of our distribution centers and then, based upon production needs, the components are sent to one of several third party fillers which manufacture the finished product for us and then deliver them to one of our distribution centers.

 

15
 

 

Product Liability

 

Our United States operations maintain product liability coverage in an amount of $5,000,000, and our European operations maintain product liability coverage in an amount of €6,000,000 (approximately $7.3 million). Based upon our experience, we believe this coverage is adequate and covers substantially all of the exposure we may have with respect to our products. We have never been the subject of any material product liability claims. 

 

Government Regulation

 

A fragrance is defined as a “cosmetic” under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act. A fragrance must comply with the labeling requirements of this FDC Act as well as the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act and its regulations. Some of our color cosmetic products may contain menthol and are also classified as a “drug”. Under U.S. law, a product may be classified as both a cosmetic and a drug. Additional regulatory requirements for products which are “drugs” include additional labeling requirements, registration of the manufacturer and the semi-annual update of a drug list. In addition, various jurisdictions prohibit the use of certain ingredients in fragrances and cosmetics.

 

Our fragrances are subject to the approval of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms as a result of the use of specially denatured alcohol. So far we have not experienced any difficulties in obtaining the required approvals.

 

Our fragrance and fragrance related products that are manufactured or sold in Europe are subject to certain regulatory requirements of the European Union, such as Cosmetic Directive 76/768/CEE and Regulation number 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, but as of the date of this report, we have not experienced any material difficulties in complying with such requirements.

 

Trademarks

 

The market for our products depends to a significant extent upon the value associated with our trademarks and brand names. We own, or have licenses or other rights to use, the material trademark and brand name rights used in connection with the packaging, marketing and distribution of our major products both in the United States and in other countries where such products are principally sold. Therefore, trademark and brand name protection is important to our business. Although most of the brand names we license, use or own are registered in the United States and in certain foreign countries in which we operate, we may not be successful in asserting trademark or brand name protection. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. The costs required to protect our trademarks and brand names may be substantial.

 

16
 

 

Under various license and other agreements we have the right to use certain registered trademarks throughout the world (except as otherwise noted) for fragrances and fragrance related products. These registered trademarks include:

 

  · Abercrombie & Fitch
  · Agent Provocateur
  · Anna Sui
  · Balmain
  · Banana Republic
  · Bebe
  · Boucheron
  · Dunhill
  · Gap
  · Hollister
  · Jimmy Choo
  · Jordache
  · Karl Lagerfeld
  · Montblanc
  · Oscar de la Renta
  · Paul Smith
  · Repetto
  · Shanghai Tang
  · S.T. Dupont
  · Van Cleef & Arpels

 

In addition, we are the registered trademark owner of several trademarks for fragrances and fragrance related products, including:

 

  · Aziza
  · Intimate
  · Lanvin
  · Tristar, Regal Collections, Royal Selections and Apple

 

Employees

 

As of March 1, 2015, we had 298 full-time employees worldwide. Of these, 210 are full-time employees of our European operations, with 32 employees engaged in sales activities and 178 in administrative, production and marketing activities. Our United States operations have 88 employees, and of these, 12 were engaged in sales activities and 76 in administrative, production and marketing activities. We believe that our relationship with our employees is good.

 

17
 

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

 

You should carefully consider these risk factors before you decide to purchase or sell shares of our common stock. These factors could cause our future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements made by us. The trading price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

 

We are dependent upon the continuation and renewal of various licenses and other agreements for a significant portion of our sales, and the loss of one or more licenses or agreements could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

All of our rights relating to prestige fragrance brands, other than Lanvin, as well as all of our designer and specialty retail brands, are derived from licenses or other agreements from unaffiliated third parties, and our business is dependent upon the continuation and renewal of such licenses and other agreements on terms favorable to us. Each license or agreement is for a specific term and may have additional optional terms. Generally, each license is subject to us making required royalty payments (which are subject to certain minimums), minimum advertising and promotional expenditures and meeting minimum sales requirements. Other agreements are generally subject to meeting minimum sales requirements. Just as the loss of a license or other significant agreement may have a material adverse effect on us, a renewal on less favorable terms may also negatively impact us.

  

Our business could be adversely affected by a prolonged downturn or recession in the United States, Europe or other countries in which we conduct business.

 

A prolonged economic downturn or recession in the United States, Europe or any of the other countries in which we do significant business could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In particular, such a downturn or recession could adversely impact (i) the level of spending by our ultimate consumers, (ii) our ability to collect accounts receivable on a timely basis from certain customers, (iii) our ability of certain suppliers to fill our orders for raw materials, packaging or co-packed finished goods on a timely basis, and (iv) the mix of our product sales.

 

Consumers may reduce discretionary purchases of our products as a result of a general economic downturn.

 

We believe that the high degree of global economic uncertainty could have a negative effect on consumer confidence, demand and spending. In addition, we believe that consumer spending on beauty products is influenced by general economic conditions and the availability of discretionary income. Accordingly, we may experience sustained periods of declines in sales during periods of economic downturn as it may affect consumer purchasing patterns. In addition, a general economic downturn may result in reduced traffic in our customers’ stores which may, in turn, result in reduced net sales to our retail store customers. Any resulting material reduction in our sales could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

18
 

 

Uncertainties and continued deterioration in global credit markets, as evidenced by previous reductions in sovereign credit ratings in the United States and Europe, could negatively impact suppliers, customers and consumers, which could have an adverse impact on our business as a whole.

 

Uncertainties and continued deterioration in the global credit markets as evidenced by previous reductions in sovereign credit ratings in the United States and Europe, could negatively impact our suppliers, customers and consumers which, in turn, could have an adverse impact on our business. While thus far, uncertainties in global credit markets have not significantly affected our access to credit due to our strong credit rating, a further deterioration in global financial markets could make future financing difficult or more expensive. Such lack of credit or lack of credit on favorable terms could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

Our Company is exposed to credit risk and fluctuations in the market values of its investment portfolio.

 

Our Company has not recognized any significant losses on its cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, but could experience declines in the market value of its investment portfolio. As we have received payment for the buy-out of the Burberry license, any financial turmoil affecting the banking system and financial markets or any significant financial services institution failures could negatively impact our investments, as the financial condition of such parties may deteriorate rapidly and without notice in times of market volatility and disruption. Given the global nature of our business, our Company has both domestic and international investments. Credit ratings and pricing of these investments can be negatively affected by liquidity, credit deterioration, financial results, economic risk, political risk, sovereign risk or other factors. As a result, the value and liquidity of our Company’s cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments could decline and result in a significant impairment.

 

If our intangible assets, such as trademarks and licenses, become impaired we may be required to record a significant non-cash charge to earnings which would negatively impact our results of operations.

 

Under United States generally accepted accounting principles we review our intangible assets, including our trademarks and licenses, for impairment annually in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of our intangible assets may not be fully recoverable. The carrying value of our intangible assets may not be recoverable due to factors such as reduced estimates of future cash flows, including those associated with the specific brands to which intangibles relate, or slower growth rates in our industry. Estimates of future cash flows are based on a long-term financial outlook of our operations and the specific brands to which the intangible assets relate. However, actual performance in the near-term or long-term could be materially different from these forecasts, which could impact future estimates and the recorded value of the intangibles. Any significant impairment to our intangible assets would result in a significant charge to earnings in our financial statements during the period in which the impairment is determined to exist.

 

19
 

 

If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, specifically trademarks and brand names, our ability to compete could be negatively impacted.

 

The market for our products depends to a significant extent upon the value associated with trademarks and brand names that we license, use or own. We own, or have licenses or other rights to use, the material trademark and brand name rights used in connection with the packaging, marketing and distribution of our major products both in the United States and in other countries where such products are principally sold. Therefore, trademark and brand name protection is important to our business. Although most of the brand names we license, use or own are registered in the United States and in certain foreign countries in which we operate, we may not be successful in asserting trademark or brand name protection. In addition, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. The costs required to protect our trademarks and brand names may be substantial.

 

Our success depends on our ability to operate our business without infringing, misappropriating or otherwise violating the trademarks, patents, copyrights and proprietary rights of other parties.

 

Our commercial success depends at least in part on our ability to operate without infringing, misappropriating or otherwise violating the trademarks, patents, copyrights and other proprietary rights of others. However, we cannot be certain that the conduct of our business does not and will not infringe, misappropriate or otherwise violate such rights. Many companies have employed intellectual property litigation as a way to gain a competitive advantage, and to the extent we gain greater visibility and market exposure as a public company, we may also face a greater risk of being the subject of such litigation. For these and other reasons, third parties may allege that our products, services or activities infringe, misappropriate or otherwise violate their trademark, patent, copyright or other proprietary rights. Defending against allegations and litigation could be expensive, take significant time, divert management’s attention from other business concerns, and delay getting our products to market. In addition, if we are found to be infringing, misappropriating or otherwise violating third party trademark, patent, copyright or other proprietary rights, we may need to obtain a license, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all, or redesign or rebrand our products, which may not be possible. We may also be required to pay substantial damages or be subject to a court order prohibiting us and our customers from selling certain products or engaging in certain activities. Our inability to operate our business without infringing, misappropriating or otherwise violating the trademarks, patents, copyrights and proprietary rights of others could therefore have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The success of our products is dependent on public taste.

 

Our revenues are substantially dependent on the success of our products, which depends upon, among other matters, pronounced and rapidly changing public tastes, factors which are difficult to predict and over which we have little, if any, control. In addition, we have to develop successful marketing, promotional and sales programs in order to sell our fragrances and fragrance related products. If we are not able to develop successful marketing, promotional and sales programs, then such failure will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

20
 

 

We are subject to extreme competition in the fragrance industry.

 

The market for fragrances and fragrance related products is highly competitive and sensitive to changing market preferences and demands. Many of our competitors in this market are larger than we are and have greater financial resources than are available to us, potentially allowing them greater operational flexibility. Our success in the prestige fragrance industry is dependent upon our ability to continue to generate original strategies and develop quality products that are in accord with ongoing changes in the market.

 

If there is insufficient demand for our existing fragrances and fragrance related products, or if we do not develop future strategies and products that withstand competition or we are unsuccessful in competing on price terms, then we could experience a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

If we are unable to acquire or license additional brands, or obtain the required financing for these agreements and arrangements, then the growth of our business could be impaired.

 

Our future expansion through acquisitions or new product license or distribution arrangements, if any, will depend upon the capital resources and working capital available to us. Further, in view of the global banking crisis, we may be unable to obtain financing or credit that we may require for additional licenses, acquisitions or other transactions. We may be unsuccessful in identifying, negotiating, financing and consummating such acquisitions or arrangements on terms acceptable to us, or at all, which could hinder our ability to increase revenues and build our business. Just as the loss of a license or other significant agreement may have a material adverse effect on us, our failure to acquire rights to new brands may also negatively impact us.

 

We may engage in future acquisitions that we may not be able to successfully integrate or manage. These acquisitions may dilute our stockholders and cause us to incur debt and assume contingent liabilities.

 

We continuously review acquisition prospects that would complement our current product offerings, increase our size and geographic scope of operations or otherwise offer growth and operating efficiency opportunities. The financing, if available, for any of these acquisitions could significantly dilute our stockholders and/or result in an increase in our indebtedness. We may acquire or make investments in businesses or products in the future, and such acquisitions may entail numerous integration risks and impose costs on us, including:

 

  · difficulties in assimilating acquired operations or products, including the loss of key employees from acquired businesses;
  · diversion of management’s attention from our core business;
  · adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers and customers;

 

21
 

 

  · risks of entering markets in which we have no or limited prior experience;
  · dilutive issuances of equity securities;
  · incurrence of substantial debt;
  · assumption of contingent liabilities;
  · incurrence of significant amortization expenses related to intangible assets and the potential impairment of acquired assets; and
  · incurrence of significant immediate write-offs.

 

Our failure to successfully complete the integration of any acquired business could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

Joint ventures or strategic alliances in geographic markets in which we have limited or no prior experience may expose us to additional risks.

 

We review, and from time to time may establish, joint ventures and strategic alliances that we believe would complement our current product offerings, increase the size and geographic scope of our operations or otherwise offer growth and operating efficiency opportunities. These business relationships may require us to rely on the local expertise of our partners with respect to market development, sales, local regulatory compliance and other matters. Further, there may be challenges with ensuring that such joint ventures and strategic alliances implement the appropriate internal controls to ensure compliance with the various laws and regulations applicable to us as a U.S. public company. Accordingly, in addition to commercial and operational risk, these joint ventures and strategic alliances may entail risks such as reputational risk and regulatory compliance risk. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to identify suitable alliance or joint venture candidates, that we will be able to consummate any such alliances or joint ventures on favorable terms, or that we will realize the anticipated benefits of entering into any such alliances or joint ventures.

 

We are dependent upon Messrs. Jean Madar and Philippe Benacin, and the loss of their services could harm our business.

 

Jean Madar, our Chief Executive Officer, and Philippe Benacin, our President and Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA, are responsible for day-to-day operations as well as major decisions. Termination of their relationships with us, whether through death, incapacity or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our operations, and we cannot assure you that qualified replacements can be found. We maintain key man insurance on the life of Mr. Benacin ($17 million). However, we cannot assure you that we would be able to retain suitable replacements for either Mr. Madar or Mr. Benacin.

 

Our reliance on third party manufacturers could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

We rely on outside sources to manufacture our fragrances and cosmetics. The failure of such third party manufacturers to deliver either components or finished goods on a timely basis could have a material adverse effect on our business. Although we believe there are alternate manufacturers available to supply our requirements, we cannot assure you that current or alternative sources will be able to supply all of our demands on a timely basis. We do not intend to develop our own manufacturing capacity. As these are third parties over whom we have little or no control, the failure of such third parties to provide components or finished goods on a timely basis could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

22
 

 

Our reliance on third party distributors could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

We sell a substantial percentage of our prestige fragrances through independent distributors specializing in luxury goods. Given the growing importance of distribution, we have modified our distribution model by owning a controlling interest in certain of our distributors within key markets. However, we have little or no control over third party distributors and the failure of such third parties to provide services on a timely basis could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results. In addition, if we replace existing third party distributors with new third party distributors or with our own distribution arrangements, then transition issues could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

Terrorist attacks, acts of war or military actions and/or other civil unrest may adversely affect the territories in which we operate, and our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

Terrorist attacks such as those that have occurred, most recently in Paris, France where we have our European headquarters, and previously in Libya, Spain, England and the United States, and attempted terrorist attacks, military responses to terrorist attacks, other military actions, or governmental action in response to or in anticipation of a terrorist attack, or civil unrest as occurring in the Ukraine, may adversely affect prevailing economic conditions, resulting in work stoppages, reduced consumer spending or reduced demand for our products. These developments subject our worldwide operations to increased risks and, depending on their magnitude, could reduce net sales and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

The loss of or disruption in our distribution facilities could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

We currently have one distribution facility in Paris and one in New Jersey.  The loss of one or both of those facilities, as well as the inventory stored in those facilities, would require us to find replacement facilities and assets. In addition, acts of God, such as extreme weather conditions, natural disasters and the like or terrorist attacks, could disrupt our distribution operations. If we cannot replace our distribution capacity and inventory in a timely, cost-efficient manner, then such failure could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.

 

23
 

 

Changes in laws, regulations and policies that affect our business could adversely affect our financial results.

 

Our business is subject to numerous laws, regulations and policies.  Changes in the laws, regulations and policies, including the interpretation or enforcement thereof, that affect, or will affect, our business, including changes in accounting standards, tax laws and regulations, environmental or climate change laws, regulations or accords, trade rules and customs regulations, and the outcome and expense of legal or regulatory proceedings, and any action we may take as a result could adversely affect our financial results.

 

Our success depends, in part, on the quality and safety of our products.

 

Our success depends, in part, on the quality and safety of our products.  If our products are found to be defective or unsafe, or if they otherwise fail to meet our consumers’ standards, our relationships with customers or consumers could suffer, the appeal of one or more of our brands could be diminished, and we could lose sales and/or become subject to liability claims, any of which could result in a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

We are subject to risks related to our foreign operations.

 

We operate on a global basis, with a substantial portion of our 2014 net sales and net income generated outside the United States. We intend to reinvest these earnings in our foreign operations indefinitely, except where we are able to repatriate these earnings to the United States without incurring material incremental tax obligations. A substantial portion of our cash and cash equivalents that result from these earnings remain outside the United States. We maintain offices in 7 countries and have key operational facilities located outside the United States that warehouse or distribute goods for sale throughout the world. Foreign operations are subject to many risks and uncertainties, including:

 

•               changes in foreign laws, regulations and policies, including restrictions on trade, import and export license requirements, and tariffs and taxes, as well as changes in United States laws and regulations relating to foreign trade and investment; and

 

•               adverse weather conditions, social, economic and geopolitical conditions, such as terrorist attacks, war or other military action.

 

These risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

 

The international character of our business renders us subject to fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates and international trade tariffs, barriers and other restrictions.

 

A substantial portion of our European operations’ net sales (approximately 40%) are sold in U.S. dollars. In an effort to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange fluctuations, we engage in a controlled program of risk management that includes the use of derivative financial instruments. Despite such actions, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates for the U.S. dollar, particularly with respect to the euro, could have a material adverse effect on our operating results. Possible import, export, tariff and other trade barriers, which could be imposed by the United States, other countries or the European Union might also have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

 

24
 

 

Our business is subject to governmental regulation, which could impact our operations.

 

Fragrances and fragrance related products must comply with the labeling requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act as well as the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act and their regulations. Some of our color cosmetic products may also be classified as a “drug”. Additional regulatory requirements for products which are “drugs” include additional labeling requirements, registration of the manufacturer and the semi-annual update of a drug list. In addition, various jurisdictions prohibit the use of certain ingredients in fragrances and cosmetics.

 

Our fragrances are subject to the approval of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms as a result of the use of specially denatured alcohol. So far we have not experienced any difficulties in obtaining the required approvals.

 

Our fragrance and fragrance related products that are manufactured or sold in Europe are subject to certain regulatory requirements of the European Union, such as Cosmetic Directive 76/768/CEE and Regulation number 1223/2009 on cosmetic products, but as of the date of this report, we have not experienced any material difficulties in complying with such requirements.

 

However, we cannot assure you that, should we use proscribed ingredients in our fragrance or fragrance related products that we develop or market, or develop or market fragrances and fragrance related products with different ingredients, or should existing regulations or requirements be revised, we would not in the future experience difficulty in complying with such requirements, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

Our information systems and websites may be susceptible to outages and other risks.

 

We have information systems that support our business processes, including product development, marketing, sales, order processing, production, distribution, finance and intra-company communications. We have Internet websites in the United States and Europe. These systems may be susceptible to outages due to fire, floods, power loss, telecommunications failures, break-ins and similar events. Despite the implementation of network security measures, our systems may be vulnerable to computer viruses, break-ins and similar disruptions from unauthorized tampering. The occurrence of these or other events could disrupt or damage our information systems and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

25
 

 

Our failure to protect our reputation, or the failure of our partners to protect their reputations, could have a material adverse effect on our brand images.

 

Our ability to maintain our reputation is critical to our various brand images. Our reputation could be jeopardized if we fail to maintain high standards for merchandise quality and integrity or if we, or the third parties with whom we do business, do not comply with regulations or accepted practices. Any negative publicity about these types of concerns may reduce demand for our merchandise. Failure to comply with ethical, social, product, labor and environmental standards, or related political considerations, such as animal testing, could also jeopardize our reputation and potentially lead to various adverse consumer actions, including boycotts. Failure to comply with local laws and regulations, including applicable U.S. trade sanctions, to maintain an effective system of internal controls or to provide accurate and timely financial statement information could also hurt our reputation. We are also dependent on the reputations of our brand partners and licensors, which can be affected by matters outside of our control. Damage to our reputation or the reputations of our brand partners or licensors or loss of consumer confidence for any of these or other reasons could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows, as well as require additional resources to rebuild our reputation.

 

Our business is subject to seasonal variability.

 

The business of our European operations has become increasingly seasonal due to the timing of shipments by our majority-owned distribution subsidiaries to their customers, which are weighted to the second half of the year. Accordingly, our financial performance, sales, working capital requirements, cash flow and borrowings generally experience variability during the third and fourth quarters. Any substantial decrease in net revenues, in particular during periods of increased sales due to seasonality, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

 

The trading prices of our securities periodically may rise or fall based on the accuracy of predictions of our earnings or other financial performance.

 

Our business planning process is designed to maximize our long-term strength, growth and profitability, not to achieve an earnings target in any particular fiscal quarter. We believe that this longer-term focus is in the best interests of our Company and our stockholders. At the same time, however, we recognize that it may be helpful to provide investors with guidance as to our forecast of net sales and earnings per share. Accordingly, we provide guidance as to our expected net sales, and earnings per share, which is updated as appropriate throughout the year. While we generally provide updates to our guidance when we report our results each fiscal quarter if called for, we assume no responsibility to update any of our forward-looking statements at such times or otherwise. In addition, the longer-term guidance we provide is based on goals that we believe, at the time guidance is given, are reasonably attainable for growth and performance over a number of years. Such targets are more difficult to predict than our current quarter and fiscal year expectations.

 

26
 

 

In all of our public statements when we make, or update, a forward-looking statement about our sales and/or earnings expectations or expectations regarding other initiatives, we accompany such statements directly, or by reference to a public document, with a list of factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those we expect.  Such a list is included, among other places, in our earnings press release and in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (e.g., in our reports on Form 10-K and Forms 10-Q).  These and other factors may make it difficult for outside observers, such as research analysts, to predict what our earnings will be in any given fiscal quarter or year.

 

Outside analysts and investors have the right to make their own predictions of our financial results for any future period. Outside analysts, however, have access to no more material information about our results or plans than any other public investor, and we do not endorse or adopt their predictions as to our future performance. Nor do we assume any responsibility to correct the predictions of outside analysts or others when they differ from our own internal expectations. If and when we announce actual results that differ from those that outside analysts or others have been predicting, the market price of our securities could be affected. Investors who rely on the predictions of outside analysts or others when making investment decisions with respect to our securities do so at their own risk. We take no responsibility for any losses suffered as a result of such changes in the prices of our securities.

 

We may become subject to possible liability for improper comparative advertising or “Trade Dress”.

 

Brand name manufacturers and sellers of brand name products may make claims of improper comparative advertising or trade dress (packaging) with respect to the likelihood of confusion between some of our mass market products and those of brand name manufacturers and sellers. They may seek damages for loss of business or injunctive relief to seek to have the use of the improper comparative advertising or trade dress halted. However, we believe that our displays and packaging constitute fair competitive advertising and are not likely to cause confusion between our products and others. Further, we have not experienced to any material degree, any of such problems to date.

 

27
 

 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

 

None.

 

Item 2. Properties

 

United States Operations

 

Use   Location   Approximate
Size
  Term Expires    
                 
Office Space-Corporate headquarters and United States operations  

551 Fifth Avenue,

15th Floor,

New York, NY.

  16,800 square feet   April 30, 2024    
                 
Distribution center  

60 Stults Road

Dayton, NJ

  140,000 square feet   October 31, 2018    

 

European Operations

 

Use   Location   Approximate
Size
  Term Expires   Other Information
                 
Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

Ground and 1st Fl. Paris, France

  571 square meters   March 2022   Lessee has early termination right every 3 years on 6 months’ notice
                 
Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

4th Fl.

Paris, France

  540 square meters   March 2023   Lessee has early termination right every 3 years on 6 months’ notice
                 
Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

5th Fl- left

Paris, France

  155 square meters   March 2022   Lessee has early termination right on 3 months’ notice
                 
Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

6th Fl-Right

Paris, France

  157 square meters   March 2022   Lessee has early termination right every 3 years on 6 months’ notice

 

28
 

 

Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

2nd Fl

Paris, France

  544 square meters   September 2017   Lessee has early termination right every 3 years on 6 months’ notice
                 
Office Space-Paris corporate headquarters and European operations  

4 Rond Point Des

Champs Elysees

6th Fl

Paris, France

  60 square meters   September 2017   Lessee has early termination right every 3 years on 6 months’ notice
                 
European Distribution Center  

Criquebeuf sur

Seine (27340), the

"Le Bosc Hetrel"

business park

  31,000 square meters   May 2017 and May 2020   Lease for portion of space expires May 2017

 

Interparfums SA has had an agreement with Sagatrans, S.A. for warehousing and distribution services for several years. The current agreement with Sagatrans for warehousing and distribution services expires on December 31, 2017. Service fees payable to Sagatrans are calculated based upon a percentage of sales, which is customary in the industry. Service fees actually paid in 2014, 2013 and 2012 were €3.2 million, €5.9 million and €6.5 million, respectively.

 

We believe our office and warehouse facilities are satisfactory for our present needs and those for the foreseeable future.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

 

We are not a party to any material lawsuits.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not applicable.

 

29
 

 

PART II

 

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

The Market for Our Common Stock

 

Our Company's common stock, $.001 par value per share, is traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “IPAR”. The following table sets forth in dollars, the range of high and low closing prices for the past two fiscal years for our common stock.

 

Fiscal 2014  High Closing Price   Low Closing Price 
Fourth Quarter   29.98    24.81 
Third Quarter   31.39    25.62 
Second Quarter   36.78    27.59 
First Quarter   37.74    30.38 

 

Fiscal 2013  High Closing Price   Low Closing Price 
Fourth Quarter   38.94    28.94 
Third Quarter   34.96    26.02 
Second Quarter   33.19    24.43 
First Quarter   25.71    19.55 

 

As of February 20, 2015, the number of record holders, which include brokers and broker's nominees, etc., of our common stock was 47. We believe there are approximately 6,500 beneficial owners of our common stock.

 

Corporate Performance Graph

 

The following graph compares the performance for the periods indicated in the graph of our common stock with the performance of the Nasdaq Market Index and the average performance of a group of the Company’s peer corporations consisting of: Avon Products Inc., Blyth Inc., CCA Industries, Inc., Colgate-Palmolive Co., Elizabeth Arden, Inc., Estee Lauder Cosmetics, Inc., Inter Parfums, Inc., Kimberly Clark Corp., Natural Health Trends Corp., Revlon, Inc., Spectrum Brands, Inc., Stephan Company, Summer Infant, Inc., The Procter & Gamble Company and United Guardian, Inc. The graph assumes that the value of the investment in our common stock and each index was $100 at the beginning of the period indicated in the graph, and that all dividends were reinvested.

 

30
 

 

 

Below is the list of the data points for each year that corresponds to the lines on the above graph.

 

   12-09   12-10   12-11   12-12   12-13   12-14 
                         
Inter Parfums, Inc.   100.00    157.33    132.30    168.51    319.38    248.79 
NASDAQ Composite   100.00    117.61    118.70    139.00    196.83    223.74 
Peer Group   100.00    107.99    117.98    127.68    159.90    180.24 

 

Dividends

 

In January 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a 50% increase in the cash dividend to $0.48 per share on an annual basis. In November 2013, our Board of Directors declared a special cash dividend of $0.48 per share, which was payable in one lump sum on December 16, 2013 to shareholders of record on December 2, 2013.

 

In January 2014, our Board of Directors determined to maintain the quarterly dividend of $0.12 per share, or $0.48 on an annual basis and in January 2015, our Board of Directors authorized an 8% increase in the annual dividend to $0.52 per share. The next quarterly cash dividend of $0.13 per share is payable on April 15, 2015 to shareholders of record on March 31, 2015.

 

31
 

 

Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

The following sets forth certain information as to the sales of securities, which were not registered under the Securities Act, including options granted to purchase our common stock, during the fourth quarter of 2014 and through the date of this report.

 

On February 2, 2015, we granted options to purchase an aggregate of 4,000 shares for a five-year period at the exercise price of $25.285 per share, the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant, to four non-employee directors, who are all deemed our affiliates, under our 2004 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan. Such options vest 25% each year over a four-year period on a cumulative basis. This transaction was exempt from the registration requirements of Section 5 of the Securities Act under Sections 4(2) and 4(6) of the Securities Act. Each option holder agreed that, if the option is exercised, the option holder would purchase his common stock for investment and not for resale to the public. Also, we provide all option holders with all reports we file with the SEC and press releases issued by us. In addition, in December 2014 and January 2015, our non-employee directors exercised stock options to purchase an aggregate of 4,250 shares of restricted common stock. Such transactions were also exempt from the registration requirements of Section 5 of the Securities Act under Sections 4(2) and 4(6) of the Securities Act.

 

Repurchases of Our Common Stock

 

For each of the three (3) months during the fourth quarter of 2014, we repurchased the following shares of our common stock:

 

Month  Number of Shares 
     
October 2014   0 
      
November 2014   0 
      
December 2014   11,495 

 

As listed in the table above, in December 2014, the Chief Executive Officer and the President each exercised 19,000 outstanding stock options of the Company’s common stock. The aggregate exercise prices of $0.3 million was paid by each of them tendering to the Company an aggregate of 9,576 shares of the Company’s common stock, previously owned by them, valued at fair market value on the dates of exercise. All shares issued pursuant to these option exercises were issued from treasury stock of the Company. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer tendered an additional 1,919 shares for payment of certain withholding taxes resulting from his option exercises.

 

32
 

 

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

 

The following selected financial data have been derived from our financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with those financial statements, including the related footnotes.

 

   Years Ended December 31, 
(In thousands except per share data)  2014   2013   2012   2011   2010 
Income statement data:                         
Net sales  $499,261   $563,579   $654,117   $615,220   $460,411 
Cost of sales   212,224    234,800    246,931    231,746    187,501 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   233,634    250,025    325,799    315,698    216,474 
Operating income   53,403    78,754    278,414    66,939    56,436 
Income before taxes   56,715    80,646    274,765    67,393    53,840 
Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest   7,909    11,755    45,754    10,646    9,082 
                          
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.   29,436    39,211    131,136    32,303    26,593 
                          
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders per share:                         
Basic  $0.95   $1.27   $4.29   $1.06   $.88 
Diluted  $0.95   $1.27   $4.26   $1.05   $.87 
Average common shares outstanding:                         
Basic   30,931    30,764    30,575    30,515    30,361 
Diluted   31,060    30,954    30,716    30,678    30,482 
                          
Depreciation and amortization  $10,166   $11,110   $15,554   $13,073   $9,188 

 

   As at December 31, 
(In thousands except per share data)  2014   2013   2012   2011   2010 
Balance sheet and other data:                         
Cash and cash equivalents  $90,138   $125,650   $307,335   $35,856   $37,548 
Short-term investments   190,152    181,677    -0-    -0-    -0- 
Working capital   382,935    399,344    366,680    205,730    183,594 
Total assets   604,506    664,058    759,920    516,034    438,105 
Short-term bank debt   298    6,104    27,776    11,826    5,250 
Long-term debt (including current portion)   -0-    -0-    -0-    4,480    16,129 
Inter Parfums, Inc. shareholders’ equity   382,065    407,211    381,476    252,674    234,976 
Dividends declared per share  $0.48   $0.96   $0.32   $0.32   $0.26 

 

33
 

 

Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Overview

 

We operate in the fragrance business, and manufacture, market and distribute a wide array of fragrances and fragrance related products. We manage our business in two segments, European-based operations and United States-based operations. Certain prestige fragrance products are produced and marketed by our European operations through our 73% owned subsidiary in Paris, Interparfums SA, which is also a publicly traded company as 27% of Interparfums SA shares trade on the NYSE Euronext.

 

We produce and distribute our European-based prestige products primarily under license agreements with brand owners, and European-based prestige product sales represented approximately 79%, 82% and 87% of net sales for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We have built a portfolio of prestige brands, which include Balmain, Boucheron, Jimmy Choo, Karl Lagerfeld, Lanvin, Montblanc, Paul Smith, S.T. Dupont, Repetto and Van Cleef & Arpels, whose products are distributed in over 100 countries around the world.

 

Burberry was our most significant license, and net sales of Burberry products represented 0%, 23% and 46% of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. (See Note 2 “Termination of Burberry License” in notes to consolidated financial statements on page F-13 of this Form 10-K). In addition, we own the Lanvin brand name for our class of trade, and license the Montblanc and Jimmy Choo brand names; for the year ended December 31, 2014, sales of product for these brands represented 18%, 22% and 16% of net sales, respectively.

 

Through our United States operations we market prestige brands as well as specialty retail fragrance and fragrance related products. United States operations represented 21%, 18% and 13% of net sales in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. These fragrance products are sold or to be sold under trademarks owned by us or pursuant to license or other agreements with the owners of the Abercrombie & Fitch, Agent Provocateur, Anna Sui, Banana Republic, bebe, Dunhill, Gap, Hollister, Oscar de la Renta, and Shanghai Tang brands.

 

Quarterly sales fluctuations are influenced by the timing of new product launches as well as the third and fourth quarter holiday season. In certain markets where we sell directly to retailers, seasonality has been more evident in the past few years. We operate distribution subsidiaries in Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United States. In addition, our specialty retail product lines sold to U.S. retailers are also concentrated in the second half of the year.

 

We grow our business in two distinct ways. First, we grow by adding new brands to our portfolio, either through new licenses or other arrangements or out-right acquisitions of brands. Second, we grow through the introduction of new products and supporting new and established products through advertising, merchandising and sampling as well as phasing out existing products that no longer meet the needs of our consumers. The economics of developing, producing, launching and supporting products influence our sales and operating performance each year.  Our introduction of new products may have some cannibalizing effect on sales of existing products, which we take into account in our business planning.

 

34
 

 

Our business is not capital intensive, and it is important to note that we do not own manufacturing facilities. We act as a general contractor and source our needed components from our suppliers. These components are received at one of our distribution centers and then, based upon production needs, the components are sent to one of several third party fillers, which manufacture the finished product for us and then deliver them to one of our distribution centers.

 

As with any global business, many aspects of our operations are subject to influences outside our control. We believe we have a strong brand portfolio with global reach and potential. As part of our strategy, we plan to continue to make investments behind fast-growing markets and channels to grow market share. 

 

During 2014, the economic and political uncertainty and financial market volatility taking place in certain European countries and the Middle East did not have a significant impact on our business, and at this time we do not believe it will have a significant impact on our business for the foreseeable future. However, if the degree of uncertainty or volatility worsens or is prolonged, then there will likely be a negative effect on ongoing consumer confidence, demand and spending and as a result, our business. Currently, we believe general economic, political and other uncertainties still exist in select markets in which we do business and we continue to monitor global economic and political uncertainties and other risks that may affect our business.

 

Our reported net sales are impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. A strong U.S. dollar has a negative impact on our net sales. However, earnings are positively affected by a strong dollar, because approximately 40% of net sales of our European operations are denominated in U.S. dollars, while almost all costs of our European operations are incurred in euro. Our Company addresses certain financial exposures through a controlled program of risk management that includes the use of derivative financial instruments.  We primarily enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates. 

 

Recent Important Events

 

Burberry

 

Burberry exercised its option to buy-out the license rights effective December 31, 2012. In October 2012, the Company and Burberry entered into a transition agreement that provided for certain license rights and obligations to continue through March 31, 2013. The Company continued to operate certain aspects of the business for the brand including product development, testing, and distribution. The transition agreement provided for non-exclusivity for manufacturing, a cap on sales of Burberry products, a reduced advertising requirement and no minimum royalty amounts.

 

35
 

 

Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister

 

In December 2014, the Company entered into a 7-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute new perfumes and fragrance related products under the Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister brand names. The Company will distribute these fragrances internationally in specialty retailers, high-end department stores and duty free shops, and in the U.S., in duty free shops and potentially in Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister retail stores. The agreement is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. New men’s and women’s scents are planned for both Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister for 2016.

 

Discussion of Critical Accounting Policies

 

We make estimates and assumptions in the preparation of our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions. We believe the following discussion addresses our most critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations. These accounting policies generally require our management’s most difficult and subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Management of the Company has discussed the selection of significant accounting policies and the effect of estimates with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

We sell our products to department stores, perfumeries, specialty retailers, mass market retailers, supermarkets and domestic and international wholesalers and distributors. Sales of such products by our domestic subsidiaries are denominated in U.S. dollars and sales of such products by our foreign subsidiaries are primarily denominated in either euro or U.S. dollars. We recognize revenues when merchandise is shipped and the risk of loss passes to the customer. Net sales are comprised of gross revenues less returns, trade discounts and allowances.

 

Accounts Receivable

 

Accounts receivable represent payments due to the Company for previously recognized net sales, reduced by allowances for sales returns and doubtful accounts. Accounts receivable balances are written-off against the allowance for doubtful accounts when they become uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously recorded against the allowance are recorded in the consolidated statement of income when received. We generally grant credit based upon our analysis of the customer’s financial position as well as previously established buying patterns.

 

36
 

 

Sales Returns

 

Generally, we do not permit customers to return their unsold products. However, for U.S. distribution of our prestige products, we allow returns if properly requested, authorized and approved. We regularly review and revise, as deemed necessary, our estimate of reserves for future sales returns based primarily upon historic trends and relevant current data, including information provided by retailers regarding their inventory levels. In addition, as necessary, specific accruals may be established for significant future known or anticipated events. The types of known or anticipated events that we have considered, and will continue to consider, include, but are not limited to, the financial condition of our customers, store closings by retailers, changes in the retail environment and our decision to continue to support new and existing products. We record estimated reserves for sales returns as a reduction of sales, cost of sales and accounts receivable. Returned products are recorded as inventories and are valued based upon estimated realizable value. The physical condition and marketability of returned products are the major factors we consider in estimating realizable value. Actual returns, as well as estimated realizable values of returned products, may differ significantly, either favorably or unfavorably, from our estimates, if factors such as economic conditions, inventory levels or competitive conditions differ from our expectations.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is principally determined by the first-in, first-out method. We record adjustments to the cost of inventories based upon our sales forecast and the physical condition of the inventories. These adjustments are estimates, which could vary significantly, either favorably or unfavorably, from actual requirements if future economic conditions or competitive conditions differ from our expectations.

 

Equipment and Other Long-Lived Assets

 

Equipment, which includes tools and molds, is recorded at cost and is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of such assets. Changes in circumstances such as technological advances, changes to our business model or changes in our capital spending strategy can result in the actual useful lives differing from our estimates. In those cases where we determine that the useful life of equipment should be shortened, we would depreciate the net book value in excess of the salvage value, over its revised remaining useful life, thereby increasing depreciation expense. Factors such as changes in the planned use of equipment, or market acceptance of products, could result in shortened useful lives.

 

We evaluate indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently when events occur or circumstances change, such as an unexpected decline in sales, that would more likely than not indicate that the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset may not be recoverable. When testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, the evaluation requires a comparison of the estimated fair value of the asset to the carrying value of the asset. The fair values used in our evaluations are estimated based upon discounted future cash flow projections using a weighted average cost of capital of 6.7%. The cash flow projections are based upon a number of assumptions, including, future sales levels and future cost of goods and operating expense levels, as well as economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in consumer acceptance of our products which are more subjective in nature. If the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

 

37
 

 

We believe that the assumptions we have made in projecting future cash flows for the evaluations described above are reasonable and currently no impairment indicators exist for our indefinite-lived intangible assets. However, if future actual results do not meet our expectations, we may be required to record an impairment charge, the amount of which could be material to our results of operations. The following table presents the impact a change in the following significant assumptions would have had on the calculated fair value in 2014 assuming all other assumptions remained constant:

 

       Increase (decrease) 
In millions  Change   to fair value 
         
Weighted average cost of capital   +10%  $(1.0)
Weighted average cost of capital   -10%  $1.3 
Future sales levels   +10%  $1.0 
Future sales levels   -10%  $(1.0)

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment testing whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an amortizable intangible asset may not be recoverable. If impairment indicators exist for an amortizable intangible asset, the undiscounted future cash flows associated with the expected service potential of the asset are compared to the carrying value of the asset. If our projection of undiscounted future cash flows is in excess of the carrying value of the intangible asset, no impairment charge is recorded. If our projection of undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying value of the intangible asset, an impairment charge would be recorded to reduce the intangible asset to its fair value. The cash flow projections are based upon a number of assumptions, including future sales levels and future cost of goods and operating expense levels, as well as economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in consumer acceptance of our products which are more subjective in nature. We believe that the assumptions we have made in projecting future cash flows for the evaluations described above are reasonable and currently no impairment indicators exist for our intangible assets subject to amortization. In those cases where we determine that the useful life of long-lived assets should be shortened, we would depreciate the net book value in excess of the salvage value (after testing for impairment as described above), over the revised remaining useful life of such asset thereby increasing amortization expense.

 

In determining the useful life of our Lanvin brand names and trademarks, we applied the provisions of ASC topic 350-30-35-3. The only factor that prevented us from determining that the Lanvin brand names and trademarks were indefinite life intangible assets was Item c. “Any legal, regulatory, or contractual provisions that may limit the useful life.” The existence of a repurchase option in 2025 may limit the useful life of the Lanvin brand names and trademarks to the Company. However, this limitation would only take effect if the repurchase option were to be exercised and the repurchase price was paid. If the repurchase option is not exercised, then the Lanvin brand names and trademarks are expected to continue to contribute directly to the future cash flows of our Company and their useful life would be considered to be indefinite.

 

38
 

 

With respect to the application of ASC topic 350-30-35-8, the Lanvin brand names and trademarks would only have a finite life to our Company if the repurchase option were exercised, and in applying ASC topic 350-30-35-8, we assumed that the repurchase option is exercised. When exercised, Lanvin has an obligation to pay the exercise price and the Company would be required to convey the Lanvin brand names and trademarks back to Lanvin. The exercise price to be received (Residual Value) is well in excess of the carrying value of the Lanvin brand names and trademarks, therefore no amortization is required.

 

Derivatives

 

We account for derivative financial instruments in accordance with ASC topic 815, which establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. This topic also requires the recognition of all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and that they are measured at fair value.

 

We currently use derivative financial instruments to hedge certain anticipated transactions and interest rates, as well as receivables denominated in foreign currencies. We do not utilize derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Hedge effectiveness is documented, assessed and monitored by employees who are qualified to make such assessments and monitor the instruments. Variables that are external to us such as social, political and economic risks may have an impact on our hedging program and the results thereof. 

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in its financial statements or tax returns. The net deferred tax assets assume sufficient future earnings for their realization, as well as the continued application of currently anticipated tax rates. Included in net deferred tax assets is a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, where management believes it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized in the relevant jurisdiction. If the Company determines that a deferred tax asset will not be realizable, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset will result in a reduction of net income at that time. In addition, the Company follows the provisions of uncertain tax positions as addressed in ASC topic 740-10-65-1.

 

Quantitative Analysis

 

During the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, we have not made any material changes in our assumptions underlying these critical accounting policies or to the related significant estimates. The results of our business underlying these assumptions have not differed significantly from our expectations.

 

While we believe the estimates we have made are proper and the related results of operations for the period are presented fairly in all material respects, other assumptions could reasonably be justified that would change the amount of reported net sales, cost of sales, and selling, general and administrative expenses as they relate to the provisions for anticipated sales returns, allowance for doubtful accounts and inventory obsolescence reserves. For 2014, had these estimates been changed simultaneously by 5% in either direction, our reported gross profit would have increased or decreased by approximately $0.5 million and selling, general and administrative expenses would have changed by approximately $0.02 million. The collective impact of these changes on operating income, net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc., and net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. per diluted common share would be an increase or decrease of approximately $0.5 million, $0.26 million and $0.01 million, respectively.

 

39
 

 

Results of Operations

 

See information regarding Regulation S-K Item 10(e), “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures in commission filings,” on page v of this Form 10-K.

 

As a result of the termination of the Burberry license, after declining 14% in 2013, net sales in 2014 declined 11% to $499.3 million, as compared to $563.6 million in 2013. However, with respect to the Company’s ongoing brands (excluding Burberry brand sales), after increasing 23% in 2013, net sales in 2014 increased 15% to $499.3 million, as compared to $433.3 million in 2013.

 

Net Sales  Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2014   % Change   2013   % Change   2012 
                     
European based ongoing brand product sales  $394.0    18%  $334.0    23%  $270.4 
United States based product sales   105.3    6%   99.3    21%   82.3 
Total ongoing brand net sales   499.3    15%   433.3    23%   352.7 
                          
Burberry brand net sales   —0—    n/a    130.3    n/a    301.4 
Total net sales  $499.3    (11)%  $563.6    (14)%  $654.1 

 

At comparable foreign currency exchange rates, ongoing brand net sales increased 16% in 2014, as there was no discernible effect of currency rates on net sales in 2013. The average U.S. dollar/euro exchange rates were 1.33 in both 2014 and 2013 and 1.28 in 2012.

 

Ongoing European-based prestige product sales increased 18% in 2014 to $394.0 million, as compared to 2013. New product launches were the primary catalyst for sales growth in 2014. Karl Lagerfeld’s signature scents for both men and women yielded $24.2 million in incremental sales in 2014. Steady gains from Legend fragrances along with the 2014 launch of Emblem, enabled Montblanc brand sales to continue to outperform expectations with sales reaching $110.8 million in 2014, up 33% as compared to 2013. Montblanc has now become our top selling brand. The successful summer launch of Jimmy Choo Man enabled Jimmy Choo brand sales to resume positive sales momentum resulting in 2014 brand sales of $78.5 million, up 8% as compared to 2013. Lanvin brand sales faced a difficult comparison against the launch of Lanvin Me in 2013; however, a strong performance by Eclat d’Arpège and the launch of Lanvin Me L’Eau resulted in brand sales increasing 5% to $90.3 million in 2014 as compared to 2013.

 

40
 

 

These 2014 results for ongoing European-based prestige product sales are even more gratifying as they come on the heels of a very strong 2013 where overall ongoing European-based prestige product sales increased 23% as compared to 2012. Sales of Montblanc Legend fragrances performed exceptionally well with brand sales increasing 40% in 2013. For Jimmy Choo, the introduction of its second fragrance line, Jimmy Choo Flash, contributed to the 41% increase in brand sales for 2013. With the continued growth of Eclat ď Arpège along with the launch of Lanvin Me and the steady performance of the Jeanne Lanvin line, Lanvin product sales increased 11% in 2013, as compared to 2012. In addition, the launches of the Repetto signature scent, along with Place Vendôme from Boucheron had exceeded our expectations and were meaningful contributors to the growth in sales of ongoing brands in 2013.

 

As expected, sales within our European operations have been affected as a result of the termination of the Burberry license. In addition, 2015 is expected to be a very challenging year from a currency perspective. As mentioned above, the average U.S. dollar/euro exchange rate for 2014 and 2013 was 1.33. However, first quarter 2015 exchange rates have averaged approximately 1.15 or 14% below that of 2014. This is expected to have a significant negative impact on 2015 reported sales. Despite the severe and anticipated continuing change in such currency exchange rates, we maintain confidence in our future as we have strengthened advertising and promotional investments supporting all portfolio brands and accelerated brand development. Our expectations reflect plans to continue to build upon the strength of our brands and our worldwide distribution network. For 2015, we expect continued strong performances from the existing scents within our major European-based prestige brands. In addition, our plans in 2015 call for a number of new product launches including new scents for Montblanc, Jimmy Choo, Boucheron, Lanvin, Balmain and Van Cleef & Arpels. Lastly, the Company hopes to benefit from its substantial resources to potentially acquire one or more brands, either on a proprietary basis or as a licensee.

 

United States prestige and specialty retail product sales increased 6% in 2014 to $105.3 million as compared to $99.3 million in 2013. Recently licensed prestige brands within our U.S.-based operations were the stars of 2014. Dunhill legacy scents added $16.2 million to 2014 sales, up 25% from $13.0 million in 2013. Sales of Oscar de la Renta legacy products began in 2014 and aggregated $15.8 million for the year. In addition, the spring launches, Fatale and Fatale Pink for Agent Provocateur, have been well received in international markets, generating $5.3 million in 2014 sales. Declines in our specialty retail and mass market product lines mitigated some of these gains. In addition, a difficult Asian market resulted in a 16% decline in Anna Sui brand sales aggregating $21.5 million in 2014, as compared to $25.8 million in 2013.

 

United States prestige brand and specialty retail products, sales increased 21% in 2013 and benefited from strong consumer demand and expanded retail distribution for Anna Sui fragrances. Initial sales of Anna Sui fragrances began in 2012 and gained further momentum following the launch of La Vie de Bohème in 2013. Anna Sui fragrance sales increased 29% to $25.8 million in 2013, as compared to $20.0 million in 2012. In April 2013, our U.S.-based operations took over the manufacture and distribution of legacy Dunhill fragrances, and brand sales aggregated $13.0 million, providing an incremental contribution to 2013 growth for our U.S. business.

 

Future growth within our United States-based operations is expected to come from our prestige fragrance licenses. We plan to grow our brands by launching new products and pursuing expanded distribution. In that regard, we began shipping our first all new Dunhill fragrance, Icon, in January 2015, which will be in selective distribution until spring 2015. We have also recently launched our inaugural fragrance collection for Shanghai Tang in certain duty free markets, which will be followed by a select international roll-out throughout 2015. In addition, our plans in 2015 call for a number of other product launches including new scents for Oscar de la Renta, Anna Sui and bebe. Finally, we will continue the development process for the new Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister fragrance lines planned for international distribution in 2016.

 

41
 

 

Ongoing Brand Net Sales to Customers by Region

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
   (in millions) 
             
North America  $134.6   $118.4   $96.0 
Western Europe   130.9    114.4    90.6 
Eastern Europe   47.0    46.3    38.0 
Central and South America   49.2    33.2    29.4 
Middle East   40.3    34.1    29.7 
Asia   85.5    78.2    63.9 
Other   11.8    8.7    5.1 
   $499.3   $433.3   $352.7 

 

In 2014, ongoing brand sales were ahead in all regions. Our three largest markets Western Europe, North America and Asia had sales growth of 14.4%, 13.6% and 9.2%, respectively. Eastern Europe, which has been a difficult market all year as a result of political and economic turmoil in the area, was up 1.4% in 2014. In 2013, ongoing brand sales were also ahead in all regions, and our three largest markets Western Europe, North America and Asia had sales growth of 26.3%, 23.3% and 22.5%, respectively.

 

Gross Margins

   Years ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
   (in millions) 
     
Net sales  $499.3   $563.6   $654.1 
Cost of sales   212.3    234.8    246.9 
Gross margin  $287.0   $328.8   $407.2 
Gross margin as a  percent of net sales   57.5%   58.3%   62.2%

 

As a percentage of net sales, gross profit margins were 57.5%, 58.3%, and 62.2% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For European operations, gross profit margin was 60%, 61% and 64% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The gross margin decline in 2014 and 2013 was directly related to the resolution of the Burberry inventory and the termination of the Burberry license. Although reserves were established in 2012 and used in 2013 to cover losses on the disposition of inventory, the sale of certain inventory to Burberry at cost, resulted in a lower gross margin. In addition, the discontinuance of Burberry product sales, which were sold at higher margins than ongoing brand sales, had a negative effect on margins. For U.S. operations, gross profit margin was 48% in 2014 and 46% for both 2013 and 2012. Sales growth for our U.S. operations has primarily come from higher margin prestige product licenses while sales of lower margin specialty retail and mass market products have been in a decline.

 

42
 

 

We carefully watch movements in foreign currency exchange rates as approximately 40% of our European-based operations net sales are denominated in dollars, while our costs are incurred in euro. From a profit standpoint, a stronger U.S. dollar has a positive effect on our gross margin while a weak dollar has a negative effect. The average dollar/euro exchange rate was 1.33 in both 2014 and 2013. As such, there was no discernable effect on gross margin in 2014 from changes in currency exchange rates. However, first quarter 2015 dollar/euro exchange rates have averaged approximately 1.15 or 14% below that of 2014. Although this is expected to have a significant negative impact on 2015 reported sales, we expect to see an increase in our gross margin as over 40% of net sales of our European operations are denominated in U.S. dollars, while almost all costs of our European operations are incurred in euro.

 

Costs relating to purchase with purchase and gift with purchase promotions are reflected in cost of sales and aggregated $24.4 million, $25.7 million and $46.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and represented 4.9%, 4.6% and 7.1% of net sales, respectively. The decline in 2014 and 2013 is the result of the discontinuance of Burberry product sales.

 

Generally, we do not bill customers for shipping and handling costs and such costs, which aggregated $5.2 million, $6.1 million and $8.4 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of income. As such, our Company’s gross margins may not be comparable to other companies, which may include these expenses as a component of cost of goods sold.

 

Selling, General & Administrative Expenses

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
   (in millions) 
     
Selling, general & administrative expenses  $233.6   $250.0   $325.8 
Selling, general & administrative expenses as a percent of net sales   47%   44%   50%

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 7% in 2014 as compared to 2013 and decreased 23% in 2013 as compared to 2012. As a percentage of sales, selling, general and administrative expenses were 47%, 44% and 50% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. For European operations, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 9% in 2014, as compared to 2013 and represented 50% of sales in 2014 as compared to 47% in 2013. A significant portion of the expenses associated with the Burberry brand were variable in nature. However, with only limited reorganization measures employed, the Company is attempting to absorb its fixed costs through increased sales of other brands in our prestige fragrance portfolio as well as with the sale of products of recently licensed new brands. For U.S. operations, selling, general and administrative expenses increased 11% in 2014 and represented 36% of sales, as compared to 34% in 2013.

 

Promotion and advertising included in selling, general and administrative expenses aggregated $86.7 million, $94.0 million and $132.7 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Promotion and advertising as a percentage of sales represented 17.4%, 16.7% and 20.3% of net sales in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In 2013, pursuant to the requirements of the transition agreement with Burberry, advertising requirements were reduced. Almost all promotional spending in 2013 was for continuing brands and represented approximately 22% of continuing brand sales. As planned, we invested heavily in promotional spending in the latter part of 2013 to support new product launches and continued worldwide building of brand awareness of our brand portfolio.

 

43
 

 

Royalty expense included in selling, general and administrative expenses aggregated $35.6 million, $40.5 million and $58.8 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Royalty expense as a percentage of sales represented 7.1%, 7.2% and 9.0% of net sales in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Royalty expense in 2014 includes a $2.3 million increase to the estimated royalty liability due to Burberry. Without this adjustment, royalty expense would have represented 6.7% of net sales in 2014, with the decline directly related to the termination of the Burberry license. In addition, service fees, which are fees paid to third parties relating to the activities of our distribution subsidiaries, aggregated $11.1 million, $15.1 million and $26.3 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The declines in both 2014 and 2013 are directly related to the termination of the Burberry license and related discontinuation of our United Kingdom distribution subsidiary.

 

The impairment loss in 2012 related to our Nickel business. In December 2013, we sold our Nickel brand and trademarks for $3.5 million, which was approximately equal to the then current book value of the goodwill and trademark; therefore, there was no material gain or loss as a result of the sale.

 

See information regarding Regulation S-K Item 10(e), “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”, on page v of this Form 10-K. As a result of the termination of the Burberry license, the Company recognized a gain of $198.8 million as of December 31, 2012. On an after tax basis and after allocation to the noncontrolling interests on an after tax basis, the net gain on termination of license attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders’ aggregated $93.0 million.

 

The following analysis excludes the 2012 net gain on termination of license.

 

Income from operations decreased 32% to $53.4 million in 2014 as compared to 2013, and decreased 1% to $78.8 million in 2013 as compared to $79.6 million in 2012. Operating margins aggregated 10.7%, 14.0% and 12.2% for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Results for 2013 were influenced by an exceptional first quarter, whereby operating pursuant to the termination agreement with Burberry, profits were extraordinarily strong due to a substantial increase in sales, coupled with low promotional expenses. The remainder of the 2013 year was influenced by lower sales and profitability relating to the termination of the Burberry license. Lower gross margins were partially offset by lower promotional spending. In 2014, we experienced a slight decline in gross margin; however, and more importantly, we still need higher sales levels to appropriately leverage our selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

With only limited reorganization measures employed, the Company’s business model is expected to continue to demonstrate effectiveness. A significant portion of the expenses associated with the Burberry brand were variable in nature. The Company plans to continue to absorb substantially all of its fixed costs through increased sales of other brands in our prestige fragrance portfolio as well as with the sale of products of recently licensed new brands. Our goal is to reach an operating margin of at least 14% in the next several years.

 

44
 

 

Other Income and Expenses

 

Interest expense aggregated $1.5 million, $1.4 million and $1.7 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We use the credit lines available to us, as needed, to finance our working capital needs as well as our financing needs for acquisitions. Loans payable – banks and long-term debt including current maturities aggregated $0.3 million, $6.1 million and $27.8 million as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In October 2012, the Company entered into a one year, €20 million credit facility to finance payments required pursuant to the Karl Lagerfeld license. This credit facility was repaid in full in 2013 and we had no long-term debt as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

Foreign currency gains or (losses) aggregated $0.9 million ($1.2) million and ($3.1) million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to manage exposure related to receivables denominated in a foreign currency as over 40% of net sales of our European operations are denominated in U.S. dollars. However, as coverage is never one hundred percent, gains and losses are incurred.

Interest income aggregated $3.9 million, $4.4 million and $1.1 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments are primarily invested in certificates of deposit.

 

Income Taxes

 

Our effective income tax rate was 34.2%, 36.8% and 35.6% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Our effective tax rates differ from statutory rates due to the effect of state and local taxes and tax rates in foreign jurisdictions. In 2013, the Company incurred a new tax levied by the French Government equal to 3% on any dividend paid by a French company to its shareholders. This tax aggregated approximately $0.8 million in 2014 and $1.6 million in 2013. Excluding this tax, our effective tax rate of European operations was 31.7%, 34.0% and 35.4% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Profits in lower tax rate foreign jurisdictions are the primary factor in the continued decline in the effective tax rate of our European operations. In addition, changes in allocation percentages related to state and local taxes of our U.S. operations reduced our U.S. operations effective tax rate to 36.5% in 2014 as compared to 39.8% in 2013. We expect our effective tax rate to continue to decline as a result of our business interests in lower tax rate jurisdictions. Other than as discussed above, we did not experience any significant changes in tax rates, and none were expected in jurisdictions where we operate.

 

45
 

 

See information regarding Regulation S-K Item 10(e), “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”, on page v of this Form 10-K.

 

Net Income and Earnings per Share (as reported)

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2014     2013     2012  
    (In thousands except share and per share data)  
                   
Net income attributable to European operations   $ 29,276     $ 44,147     $ 171,799  
Net income attributable to United States operations     8,069       6,819       5,091  
Net income     37,345       50,966       176,890  
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest     7,909       11,755       45,754  
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.   $ 29,436     $ 39,211     $ 131,136  
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders:                        
Basic   $ 0.95     $ 1.27     $ 4.29  
Diluted     0.95       1.27       4.26  
Weighted average number of shares outstanding:                        
Basic     30,931,308       30,763,955       30,574,772  
Diluted     31,060,326       30,953,882       30,715,684  

 

On an after tax basis (the tax rate of Interparfums SA was 36.1% in 2012) and after allocation to the noncontrolling interest (26.8%)of the after tax gain, the 2012 net gain on termination of license attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders aggregated $93.0 million. Therefore, had this transaction not occurred, net income and earnings per share in 2012 would have been as follows:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
    2014     2013     2012  
    (In thousands except share and per share data)  
                   
Net income attributable to European operations   $ 29,276     $ 44,147     $ 44,742  
Net income attributable to United States operations     8,069       6,819       5,091  
Net income     37,345       50,966       49,833  
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest     7,909       11,755       11,741  
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.   $ 29,436     $ 39,211     $ 38,092  
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders:                        
Basic   $ 0.95     $ 1.27     $ 1.25  
Diluted     0.95       1.27       1.24  

 

46
 

 

Excluding the 2012 net gain on termination of license, on a consolidated basis, and after its allocation to the noncontrolling interests on an after tax basis, net income was $37.3 million, $51.0 million and $49.8 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Net income attributable to European operations was $29.3 million, $44.1 million and $44.7 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, while net income attributable to United States operations was $8.1 million, $6.8 million and $5.1 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The reasons for significant fluctuations in net income for both European operations and United States operations are directly related to the previous discussions relating to changes in sales, gross margin and selling, general and administrative expenses. In summary, for European operations in 2014, the absence of Burberry brand sales and related decline in gross margin as a percentage of sales were partially mitigated by the decline in Burberry related selling, general and administrative expenses. However, we need higher sales levels to appropriately leverage our selling, general and administrative expenses. For United States operations in 2014, higher gross margins combined with a lower effective tax rate mitigated an 11% increase in selling, general and administrative expenses resulting in net income growth.

 

The noncontrolling interest arises from our 73% owned subsidiary in Paris, Interparfums SA, which is also a publicly traded company as 27% of Interparfums SA shares trade on the NYSE Euronext. Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest is directly related to the profitability of our European operations, and aggregated 27.0%, 26.6% and 26.4% of European operations net income in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. aggregated $29.4 million, $39.2 million and $38.1 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Net margins attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. aggregated 5.9%, 7.0% and 5.8% in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The Company’s financial position remains strong. At December 31, 2014, working capital aggregated $383 million and we had a working capital ratio of 4.7 to 1. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments aggregated $280 million most of which is held in euro by our European operations and is readily convertible into U.S. dollars. We have not had any liquidity issues to date, and do not expect any liquidity issues relating to such cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments held by our European operations. Approximately 88% of the Company’s total assets are held by European operations. In addition to the cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments referred to above, approximately $87 million of trademarks, licenses and other intangible assets are held by European operations.

 

The Company hopes to benefit from its substantial resources to potentially acquire one or more brands, either on a proprietary basis or as a licensee. Opportunities for external growth continue to be examined, with the priority of maintaining the quality and homogeneous nature of our portfolio. However, we cannot assure you that any new license or acquisition agreements will be consummated.

 

Cash provided by operating activities aggregated $36.6 million, $49.2 million and $60.6 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In 2014, working capital items used $11 million in cash from operating activities, as compared to $18 million in 2013 and $72 million being provided by working capital items in 2012. The 2014 increase in accounts receivable is consistent with the 2014 increase in sales and the accounts receivable balances in 2014, 2013 and 2012 reflect favorable collection activity as day’s sales outstanding declined to 66 days in 2014 as compared to 73 days in 2013 and 90 days in 2012. Inventory day’s on hand has also shown improvement and aggregated 198 in 2014, down from 199 in 2013 and 225 in 2012. As noted above, in 2013, working capital items used $18 million in cash from operating activities. The primary factor contributing to this use is the payment of taxes relating to the gain on termination of license. The decline in accounts receivable, inventories and payables reflect the wind down associated with the termination of the Burberry license.

 

47
 

 

Cash flows used in investing activities reflect the purchase and sales of short-term investments by our European operations. These investments are primarily certificates of deposit with maturities greater than three months. At December 31, 2014, approximately $79 million of such certificates of deposit contain penalties where we would forfeit a portion of the interest earned in the event of early withdrawal.

 

Purchases of equipment and leasehold improvements aggregated $3.3 million, $5.0 million and $9.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In 2012, the amounts include the purchase of stands and counters for the Burberry cosmetic lines, some of which were sold for $2.8 million in 2013. Investing activities in 2012 reflect the proceeds from the termination of the Burberry license received in December 2012. Our business is not capital intensive as we do not own any manufacturing facilities. However, on a full year basis, we spend approximately $3 to $4 million on tools and molds, depending on our new product development calendar. Capital expenditures also include amounts for office fixtures, computer equipment and industrial equipment needed at our distribution centers.

 

Payments for intangible assets aggregated $0.9 million, $7.8 million and $19.7 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. When acquiring new licenses for brands that have current distribution, we may pay an entry fee in connection with securing the license rights.

 

In December 2013, the Company sold its Nickel brand and trademarks for $3.5 million, which was approximately equal to the then current book value of the goodwill and trademark; therefore, there was no material gain or loss as a result of the sale.

 

Our short-term financing requirements are expected to be met by available cash on hand at December 31, 2014, cash generated by operations and a short-term credit lines provided by domestic and foreign banks. The principal credit facilities for 2015 consist of a $20.0 million unsecured revolving line of credit provided by a domestic commercial bank and approximately $30.0 million in credit lines provided by a consortium of international financial institutions. Short-term borrowings aggregated $0.3 million and $6.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Proceeds from sale of stock of subsidiary reflect the proceeds from shares issued by our French subsidiary, Interparfums SA, pursuant to options exercised.

 

In January 2013, the Board of Directors authorized a 50% increase in the annual dividend to $0.48 per share. In November 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a special cash dividend of $0.48 per share, payable in one lump sum on December 16, 2013 to shareholders of record on December 2, 2013. In January 2014, the Board of Directors authorized the continuation of the $0.48 per share dividend for 2014 and in January 2015, the Board of Directors authorized an 8% increase in the annual dividend to $0.52 per share. The next quarterly cash dividend of $0.13 per share is payable on April 15, 2015 to shareholders of record on March 31, 2015. Dividends paid, including dividends paid once per year to noncontrolling stockholders of Interparfums SA, aggregated $19.5 million, $36.7 million and $13.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The cash dividends to be paid in 2015 are not expected to have any significant impact on our financial position.

 

48
 

 

We believe that funds provided by or used in operations can be supplemented by our present cash position and available credit facilities, so that they will provide us with sufficient resources to meet all present and reasonably foreseeable future operating needs.

 

Inflation rates in the U.S. and foreign countries in which we operate did not have a significant impact on operating results for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations over the periods indicated, as well as our total contractual obligations ($ in thousands).

 

Contractual Obligations  Payments due by period 
   Total   Less than
1 year
   Years
2-3
   Years
4-5
   More than
5 years
 
Long-Term Debt                         
Capital Lease Obligations                         
Operating Leases  $34,901   $5,306   $10,410   $8,884   $10,301 
Purchase obligations(1)  $984,309   $102,752   $210,181   $217,308   $454,068 
Other Long-Term Liabilities Reflected on the Registrant's Balance Sheet under GAAP                         
Total  $1,019,210   $108,058   $220,591   $226,192   $464,369 

 

(1)   Consists of purchase commitments for advertising and promotional items, minimum royalty guarantees, including fixed or minimum obligations, and estimates of such obligations subject to variable price provisions. Future advertising commitments were estimated based on planned future sales for the license terms that were in effect at December 31, 2014, without consideration for potential renewal periods and do not reflect the fact that our distributors share our advertising obligations.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

General

 

We address certain financial exposures through a controlled program of risk management that primarily consists of the use of derivative financial instruments. We primarily enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts in order to reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates. We do not engage in the trading of foreign currency forward exchange contracts or interest rate swaps.

 

49
 

 

Foreign Exchange Risk Management

 

We periodically enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to hedge exposure related to receivables denominated in a foreign currency and to manage risks related to future sales expected to be denominated in a currency other than our functional currency. We enter into these exchange contracts for periods consistent with our identified exposures. The purpose of the hedging activities is to minimize the effect of foreign exchange rate movements on the receivables and cash flows of Interparfums SA, our French subsidiary, whose functional currency is the euro. All foreign currency contracts are denominated in currencies of major industrial countries and are with large financial institutions, which are rated as strong investment grade.

 

All derivative instruments are required to be reflected as either assets or liabilities in the balance sheet measured at fair value. Generally, increases or decreases in fair value of derivative instruments will be recognized as gains or losses in earnings in the period of change. If the derivative is designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge, then the changes in fair value of the derivative instrument will be recorded in other comprehensive income.

 

Before entering into a derivative transaction for hedging purposes, we determine that the change in the value of the derivative will effectively offset the change in the fair value of the hedged item from a movement in foreign currency rates. Then, we measure the effectiveness of each hedge throughout the hedged period. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recognized in the income statement.

 

At December 31, 2014, we had foreign currency contracts in the form of forward exchange contracts in the amount of approximately U.S. $14.8 million, GB £2.6 million and JPY ¥75.0 million which all have maturities of less than one year. We believe that our risk of loss as the result of nonperformance by any of such financial institutions is remote.

 

Interest Rate Risk Management

 

We mitigate interest rate risk by monitoring interest rates, and then determining whether fixed interest rates should be swapped for floating rate debt, or if floating rate debt should be swapped for fixed rate debt.

 

50
 

 

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

 

The required financial statements commence on page F-1.

 

Supplementary Data

 

Quarterly Data (Unaudited)

For the Year Ended December 31, 2014

(In Thousands Except Per Share Data)

   1st  Quarter   2nd Quarter   3rd Quarter   4th Quarter   Full Year 
Net sales  $121,730   $118,192   $134,206   $125,133   $499,261 
Gross margin   69,230    68,116    75,328    74,363    287,037 
Net income   12,150    7,667    13,764    3,764    37,345 
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.   8,894    6,109    11,113    3,320    29,436 
Net income attributable to Inter  Parfums, Inc. per share:                         
Basic  $0.29   $0.20   $0.36   $0.11   $0.95 
Diluted  $0.29   $0.20   $0.36   $0.11   $0.95 
Average common shares  outstanding:                         
Basic   30,900    30,938    30,941    30,945    30,931 
Diluted   31,058    31,069    

31,054

    31,061    31,060 

  

Quarterly Data (Unaudited)

For the Year Ended December 31, 2013

(In Thousands Except Per Share Data)

   1st  Quarter   2nd Quarter   3rd Quarter   4th Quarter   Full Year 
Net sales  $213,810   $117,485   $126,753   $105,531   $563,579 
Gross margin   134,643    63,607    70,007    60,522    328,779 
Net income (loss)   42,942    4,521    9,903    (6,400)   50,966 
Net income (loss) attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.   31,696    3,815    7,854    (4,154)   39,211 
Net income (loss) attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. per share:                         
Basic  $1.03   $0.12   $0.26   $(0.13)  $1.27 
Diluted  $1.03   $0.12   $0.25   $(0.13)  $1.27 
Average common shares   outstanding:                         
Basic   30,687    30,748    30,796    30,826    30,764 
Diluted   30,847    30,953    30,986    30,826    30,954 

  

51
 

 

Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

 

None.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rule 13a-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report on Form 10-K (the “Evaluation Date”). Based on their review and evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that as of the Evaluation Date, our Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

The management of Inter Parfums, Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13(a) - 15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. With the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992), issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2014.

 

Our independent auditor, WeiserMazars LLP, a registered public accounting firm, has issued its report on its audit of our internal control over financial reporting. This report appears below.

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Inter Parfums, Inc.

 

We have audited Inter Parfums, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). Inter Parfums, Inc.’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

52
 

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 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 audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

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 (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) 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 (3) 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 the changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, Inter Parfums, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the COSO criteria.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheet of Inter Parfums, Inc. as of December 31, 2014 and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity, comprehensive income, cash flows and Schedule II for the year ended December 31, 2014 and our report dated March 11, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

WeiserMazars LLP

 

New York, New York

March 11, 2015

 

53
 

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that occurred during the fourth quarter of 2014 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B.       Other Information.

 

None.

  

54
 

 

PART III

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

 

Executive Officers and Directors

 

As of the date of this report, our executive officers and directors were as follows:

 

Name   Position
Jean Madar  

Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer of Inter Parfums, Inc. and Director General of Interparfums SA

Philippe Benacin  

Vice Chairman of the Board, President of Inter Parfums, Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA

Russell Greenberg   Director, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Philippe Santi   Director, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Interparfums SA
Francois Heilbronn   Director
Jean Levy   Director
Robert Bensoussan   Director
Patrick Choël   Director
Michel Dyens   Director
Frederic Garcia-Pelayo   Director of the Luxury and Fashion division of  Interparfums SA
Axel Marot   Director of Production & Logistics, Interparfums SA
Henry B. (“Andy”) Clarke   President of Inter Parfums USA, LLC

 

Our directors will serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders and thereafter until their successors shall have been elected and qualified. Messrs. Jean Madar and Philippe Benacin have a verbal agreement or understanding to vote their shares and the shares of their respective holding companies in a like manner.

 

With the exception of Mr. Benacin, the officers are elected annually by the directors and serve at the discretion of the board of directors. There are no family relationships between executive officers or directors of our Company.

 

Board of Directors

 

Our board of directors has the responsibility for establishing broad corporate policies and for the overall performance of our Company. Although certain directors are not involved in day-to-day operating details, members of the board of directors are kept informed of our business by various reports and documents made available to them. Our board of directors held 16 meetings (or executed consents in lieu thereof), including meetings of committees of the full board of directors during 2014 (including the last regular board meeting of 2014 held during January 2015), and all of the directors attended at least 75% of the meetings (or executed consents in lieu thereof) of the full board of directors and committees of which they were a member. Our board of directors presently consists of nine (9) directors.

 

55
 

 

On January 8, 2014, our company was advised that one of our directors, Serge Rosinoer, passed away, and on the same day we notified Nasdaq OMX of such event. Prior to the death of Mr. Rosinoer, we had nine (9) directors, with a majority of independent directors. In September 2015, Michel Dyens, an independent director, was elected to our board of directors by our stockholders at our 2014 annual meeting. As the result of the election of Mr. Dyens to the board, we again have a board with nine members and a majority of independent directors and are in compliance with the requirement to have a majority of independent directors as set forth in Nasdaq Rule 5605(b)(1)(A).

 

We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, as well as other persons performing similar functions, and we agree to provide to any person without charge, upon request, a copy of our Code of Business Conduct. Any person who requests a copy of our Code of Business Conduct should provide their name and address in writing to: Inter Parfums, Inc., 551 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10176, Att.: Shareholder Relations. In addition, our Code of Conduct is also maintained on our website, at www.interparfumsinc.com.

 

During 2014, our board of directors had the following standing committees:

 

·Audit Committee – The Audit Committee has the sole authority and is directly responsible for, the appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of the independent accountants employed by our company which prepare or issue audit reports for our company. During 2014, the Audit Committee consisted of Messrs. Heilbronn, Levy and Choël.

 

The Company does not have an “audit committee financial expert” within the definition of the applicable Securities and Exchange Commission rules. First, finding qualified nominees to serve as a director of a public company without substantial financial resources has been challenging. Second, despite the applicable Securities and Exchange Commission rule which states that being named as the audit committee financial expert does not impose any greater duty, obligation or liability, our company has been met with resistance from both present and former directors to being named as such, primarily due to potential additional personal liability. However, as the result of the background, education and experience of the members of the Audit Committee, our board of directors believes that such committee members are fully qualified to fulfill their obligations as members of the Audit Committee.

 

·Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee – The Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee oversees the compensation of our company’s executives and administers our company’s stock option plans. During 2014, the members of such committee consisted of Messrs. Heilbronn, Levy and Choël. The charter of the Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee is posted on our company’s website.

 

·Nominating Committee – The members of such committee consist of Messrs. Heilbronn, Levy and Choël. The purpose of the Nominating Committee is to determine and recommend qualified persons to the Board of Directors who will be put forth as management's slate of directors for vote of the Corporation's stockholders, as well as to fill vacancies in the Board of Directors. The charter of the Nominating Committee is posted on our company’s website.

 

56
 

 

Business Experience

 

The following sets forth biographical information as to the business experience of each executive officer and director of our company for at least the past five years.

 

Jean Madar

 

Jean Madar, age 54, a Director, has been the Chairman of the Board since our company’s inception, and is a co-founder of our company with Mr. Philippe Benacin. From inception until December 1993 he was the President of our company; in January 1994 he became Director General of Interparfums SA, our company’s subsidiary; and in January 1997 he became Chief Executive Officer of our company. Mr. Madar was previously the managing director of Interparfums SA, from September 1983 until June 1985. At such subsidiary, he had the responsibility of overseeing the marketing operations of its foreign distribution, including market research analysis and actual marketing campaigns. Mr. Madar graduated from The French University for Economic and Commercial Sciences (ESSEC) in 1983. We believe that Mr. Madar’s skills in guiding, leading and determining the strategic direction of our company since its inception together with Mr. Benacin, in addition to his contacts in the fragrance and cosmetic industry, render him qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

Philippe Benacin

 

Mr. Benacin, age 56, a Director, is President of our Company and the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA, has been the Vice Chairman of the Board since September 1991, and is a co-founder of our company with Mr. Madar. He was elected the Executive Vice President in September 1991, Senior Vice President in April 1993, and President of the Company in January 1994. In addition, he has been the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA for more than the past five years. Mr. Benacin graduated from The French University for Economic and Commercial Sciences (ESSEC) in 1983. We believe that Mr. Benacin’s skills in guiding, leading and determining the strategic direction of our company since its inception together with Mr. Madar, in addition to his contacts in the fragrance and cosmetic industry, render him qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

Russell Greenberg

 

Mr. Greenberg, age 58, the Chief Financial Officer, was Vice-President, Finance when he joined the Company in June 1992; became Executive Vice President in April 1993; and was appointed to our board of directors in February 1995. He is a certified public accountant licensed in the State of New York, and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. After graduating from The Ohio State University in 1980, he was employed in public accounting until he joined our company in June 1992. We believe that Mr. Greenberg’s skills in accounting and tax, as well as his knowledge of the fragrance industry and our Company’s operations, render him qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

57
 

 

Philippe Santi

 

Philippe Santi, age 53 and a Director since December 1999, is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Interparfums SA. Mr. Santi, who is a Certified Accountant and Statutory Auditor in France, has been the Chief Financial Officer of Interparfums SA since February 1995. Prior to February 1995, Mr. Santi was the Chief Financial Officer for Stryker France and an Audit Manager for Ernst and Young. We believe that Mr. Santi’s skills in accounting and tax, as well as his knowledge of the fragrance industry and our Company’s European operations, render him qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

Francois Heilbronn

 

Mr. Heilbronn, age 54, a Director since 1988, an independent director and a member of the Audit Committee, Nominating Committee and the Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee, is a graduate of Harvard Business School with a Master of Business Administration degree and is currently the managing partner of the consulting firm of M.M. Friedrich, Heilbronn & Fiszer. He was formerly employed by The Boston Consulting Group, Inc. from 1988 through 1992 as a manager. Mr. Heilbronn graduated from Institut d' Etudes Politiques de Paris in June 1983. From 1984 to 1986, he worked as a financial analyst for Lazard Freres & Co. In addition, during 2009, Mr. Heilbronn became an Associate Professor in Business Strategy at Sciences Po, Paris, France. As the result of his business and financial acumen, as well as his experience as managing partner of a business consulting firm in the area of mergers and acquisitions of large international companies in retail, consumer goods and consumer services throughout the world, we believe Mr. Heilbronn is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

Jean Levy

 

Jean Levy, age 82, a Director since August 1996, an independent director and a member of the Audit Committee, Nominating Committee and the Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee, worked for twenty-seven years at L'Oreal, and was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Cosmair, the exclusive United States licensee of L'Oreal, from 1983 through June 1987. In addition, he is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Sanofi Beaute (France). For more than the past five years, Mr. Levy has been an independent advisor as well as a consultant for economic development to local governments in France. A graduate of l'Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris, he also attended Yale Graduate School and was a recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship. He was also a Professor at l'Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris. He was formerly a director of Zannier Group and Escada Beaute Worldwide and Rallye, S.A. In addition, Mr. Levy was also a director (Chairman of the Board until October 2001) of Financière d'Or, and its subsidiary, Histoire d'Or which is in the retail jewelry business. Mr. Levy was formerly a consultant to Ernst & Young, Paris through 2004. Due to Mr. Levy having over thirty years’ experience as an executive officer, including more than ten years as President and Chief Executive Officer of well-known cosmetic companies such as Cosmair and Sanofi Beaute (France), we believe he is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

58
 

 

Robert Bensoussan

 

Robert Bensoussan, age 57, has been a Director since March 1997, and also is an independent director. Mr. Bensoussan is the co-founder of Sirius Equity, a retail and branded luxury goods investment company. Since 2008, Sirius has invested in UK shoe and clothing retailer LK Bennett, Italian sportswear retailer and wholesaler Jeckerson Spa and feelunique.com, Europe's largest online beauty retailer. Mr. Bensoussan served previously as Executive Chairman and CEO of LK Bennett and is now Non-Executive Chairman. He has also acted as the Non-Executive Chairman of Jerkerson Spa since May 2008 and of feelunique.com since December 2012. Mr. Bensoussan is a board member of lululemon athletica inc. He is also a member of three private Boards, including Men's retailer Celio International (Belgium), Zen Cars (Belgium), an electric car rental company, and Aurenis (France) a part-works publisher. Previously Mr. Bensoussan was as director of, and had an indirect ownership interest J. Choo Limited until July 2011, and CEO (from 2001 to 2007) and a member of the Board of Jimmy Choo Ltd (from 2001 to 2011), a privately held luxury shoe wholesaler and retailer. We believe Mr. Bensoussan is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors due to his business and financial acumen, as well as his experience in the retail and branded luxury goods market.

 

Patrick Choël

 

Mr. Choël, age 71, was appointed to the board of directors in June 2006 as an independent director, and is a member of the Audit Committee, Nominating Committee and the Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee. Mr. Choël is a director of our majority-owned subsidiary, Interparfums SA, a publicly held company, and Christian Dior and Guerlain, both privately held companies. He is also the manager of Université 82, a business consultant and advisor. For approximately 10 years, through March 2004, Mr. Choël worked as the President and CEO of two divisions of LVMH, first Parfums Christian Dior, a leading world-wide prestige beauty/fragrances business, and later, the LVMH Perfumes and Cosmetics Division, which included such well-known brands as Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, and Parfums Givenchy, among others. Prior to such time, for approximately 30 years, he worked at various executive positions at Unilever, including President and CEO of Elida Fabergé France and President and CEO of Chesebrough Pond’s USA. We believe that Mr. Choël, who has previously worked as President and Chief Executive Officer of two divisions of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A., which included such well-known brands as Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, and Parfums Givenchy, is qualified to serve as a member of our board of directors.

 

Frederic Garcia-Pelayo

 

Frederic Garcia-Pelayo, age 55, became the Director of the Luxury and Fashion division of Interparfums SA in March 2005. He was previously the Director of Marketing and Distribution for Perfume and Cosmetics for Interparfums SA and was named Executive Vice President in 2004. Previously Mr. Garcia-Pelayo was the Director of Export Sales of Interparfums SA from September 1994. Prior to September 1994, Mr. Garcia-Pelayo was the Export Manager for Benetton Perfumes for seven (7) years.

59
 

 

Axel Marot

 

Axel Marot, age 42, was the Supply Chain Manager when he joined Interparfums SA in 2003 and has been the Director of Operations for Interparfums SA since January 2005. Prior to joining Interparfums SA, Mr. Marot was a Supply Chain Manager for Nestlé.

 

Andy Clarke

 

Henry B. “Andy” Clarke, age 54, was appointed as President of Inter Parfums USA, LLC in 2009, which presently encompasses fragrance and personal care products for brands such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Agent Provocateur, Anna Sui, Banana Republic, bebe, Dunhill, Gap, Hollister, Oscar de la Renta and Shanghai Tang. Mr. Clarke has been employed by our company since 2001.

 

 

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 

Based solely upon a review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 and any amendments to such forms furnished to us, and written representations from various reporting persons furnished to us, except as set forth below, we are not aware of any reporting person who has failed to file the reports required to be filed under Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on a timely basis. Andy Clarke, the President of Inter Parfums USA, LLC, filed one Form 4 one day late reporting an option exercise and sale of the underlying shares.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation

 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

 

General

The executive compensation and stock option committee of our board of directors is comprised entirely of independent directors and oversees all elements of compensation (base salary, annual bonus, long-term incentives and perquisites) of our company’s executive officers and administers our company’s stock option plans, other than the non-employee directors stock option plan, which is self-executing.

 

The objectives of our compensation program are designed to strike a balance between offering sufficient compensation to either retain existing or attract new executives on the one hand, and maintaining compensation at reasonable levels on the other hand. We do not have the resources comparable to the cosmetic giants in our industry, and, accordingly, cannot afford to pay excessive executive compensation. In furtherance of these objectives, our executive compensation packages generally include a base salary, as well as annual incentives tied to individual performance and long-term incentives tied to our operating performance.

60
 

 

Mr. Madar, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, takes the initiative after discussions with Mr. Russell Greenberg, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and a Director, and recommends executive compensation levels for executives for United States operations. Mr. Benacin, the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA, takes the initiative after discussions with Philippe Santi, the Chief Financial Officer of Interparfums SA, and recommends executive compensation levels for executives in European operations. The recommendations are presented to the compensation committee for its consideration, and the compensation committee makes a final determination regarding salary adjustments and annual award amounts to executives, including Jean Madar and Philippe Benacin. Mr. Madar the Chief Executive Officer is not present during deliberations or determination of his executive compensation by the compensation committee. Further, Messrs. Madar and Benacin, in addition to being executive officers and directors, are our largest beneficial shareholders, and therefore, their interests are aligned with our shareholder base in keeping executive compensation at a reasonable level.

 

The compensation committee was pleased that the most recent shareholder advisory vote on executive compensation held at our last annual meeting of shareholders in September 2014 overwhelmingly approved the compensation policies and decisions of the compensation committee. As such vote validated the compensation policies and decisions of the compensation committee. The compensation committee has determined to continue its present compensation policies in order to determine similar future decisions.

 

Our compensation committee believes that individual executive compensation is at a level comparable with executives in other companies of similar size and stage of development that operate in the fragrance industry and takes into account our company’s performance as well as our own strategic goals. Further, the compensation committee believes that its present policies to date, with its emphasis on rewarding performance, has served to focus the efforts of our executives, which in turn has permitted our company to weather economic and political turmoil in certain parts of the world and keep our company on track for continued growth in sales and profitability, which management believes will result in a substantial increase in value to our shareholders.

 

Elements of Compensation

 

General

 

The compensation of our executive officers is generally comprised of base salaries, including a fee paid to the holding companies of each of Messrs. Madar and Benacin for services rendered outside the United States, annual cash bonuses and long-term equity incentive awards. In determining specific components of compensation, the compensation committee considers individual performance, level of responsibility, skills and experience, other compensation awards or arrangements and overall company performance. The compensation committee reviews and approves all elements of compensation for all of our executive officers taking into consideration recommendations from the Chief Executive Officer of our company and the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA, as well as information regarding compensation levels at competitors in our industry.

 

61
 

 

Our named executive officers have all been with the company for more than the past ten (10) years, with Messrs. Madar and Benacin being founders of the company in 1985. As Messrs. Madar and Greenberg for United States operations, and Benacin and Santi for European operations, are most familiar with the individual performance, level of responsibility, skills and experience of each executive officer in their respective operating segments, the compensation committee relies upon the information provided by such executive officers in determining individual performance, level of responsibility, skills and experience of each executive officer.

 

The compensation committee views the competitive market place very broadly, which would include executive officers from both public and privately held companies in general, including fashion and beauty companies, but not limited to the “peer companies” contained in the corporate performance graph contained in our annual report. Rather than tie the compensation committee’s determination of compensation proposals to any specific peer companies, the members of our committee have used their business experience, judgment and knowledge to review the executive compensation proposals recommended to them by Mr. Madar for United States operations and Benacin for European operations. As such, compensation committee did not determine the need to “benchmark” of any material item of compensation or overall compensation.

 

The members of the compensation committee have extensive experience and business acumen and are well qualified in determining the appropriateness of executive compensation levels. Mr. Heilbronn is a managing partner of a business consulting firm in the area of mergers and acquisitions of large international companies in retail, consumer goods and consumer services throughout the world. Mr. Levy has over thirty years’ experience as an executive officer, including more than ten years as President and Chief Executive Officer of well-known cosmetic companies such as Cosmair and Sanofi Beaute (France). Mr. Choël, the final committee member, is presently a business consultant and advisor, who previously worked as President and Chief Executive Officer of two divisions of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A., which included such well-known brands as Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, and Parfums Givenchy. Mr. Choël has also been President and CEO of both Elida Fabergé France and Chesebrough Pond’s USA.

 

Base Salary

 

Base salaries for executive officers are initially determined by evaluating the responsibilities of the position held and the experience of the individual, and by reference to the competitive market place for executive talent. Base salaries for executive officers are reviewed on an annual basis, and adjustments are determined by evaluating our operating performance, the performance of each executive officer, as well as whether the nature of the responsibilities of the executive has changed.

 

As stated above, as Messrs. Madar and Greenberg for United States operations, and Benacin and Santi for European operations, are most familiar with the individual performance, level of responsibility, skills and experience of each executive officer in their respective segments, the committee relies upon the information provided by such executive officers in determining individual performance, level of responsibility, skills and experience of each executive officer.

62
 

 

For executive officers of United States operations, the bulk of their annual compensation is in base salary including a fee paid to the holding company for Mr. Madar for services rendered outside the United States. However, for executive officers of European operations base salary comprises a smaller percentage of overall compensation. We have paid a lower percentage of overall compensation in the form of base salary to executive officers of European operations for several years, principally because European operations historically have had higher profitability than United States operations, and European operations are run differently from United States operations by the Chief Executive Officer of European operations, Mr. Benacin. As the result of this historically higher profitability, European operations have had the ability to pay higher bonus compensation in addition to base salary. As bonus compensation is and has historically been discretionary, no targets were set in order to maintain flexibility. Further, if results of operations for European operations were not satisfactory (again, no target amounts were set to maintain flexibility), then bonus compensation, as well as overall compensation could be lowered without otherwise affecting base salary. Finally, by keeping annual bonus compensation at a higher percentage of overall compensation and base salary at a lower percentage, our company benefits because the base amount for annual salary adjustments would be smaller.

 

For 2014, each of Mr. Philippe Santi, the Chief Financial Officer of Interparfums SA, and Mr. Frederic Garcia-Pelayo, Director of the Luxury and Fashion division, had their based salaries increased to €294,000, an increase of 2.9% from €285,600 in 2013. These increases in base salary for 2014 were in line with the base salary increases of 2.6% from €278,400 in 2012. The Compensation Committee considered the recommendations of Mr. Benacin, as well as the services performed for European operations by Messrs. Santi and Garcia-Pelayo in authorizing these salary levels.

 

With regard to Mr. Benacin, his base salary remained constant for 2012 and 2013, at €391,200 per year in view of the uncertainty of the status of the Burberry license at the end of 2011 and the beginning of 2012. Mr. Benacin believed it to be prudent to recommend only a limited base salary increase for Messrs. Santi and Garcia-Pelayo and not to increase his base salary. The compensation committee agreed with Mr. Benacin’s assessment of the uncertain business prospects of Interparfums SA and his proposed disposition relating to base salary for Interparfums SA executive officers.

 

For 2014, in addition to his base salary which was increased from €391,200 to €414,000, a 5.8% increase, Mr. Benacin’s personal holding company, received $250,000 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Benacin for the benefit of the Company’s United States operations, in his capacity as President of our company. Payment is being made by the Company’s United States operations. We have entered into a consulting agreement with Mr. Benacin’s holding company, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company.

 

The compensation took into account the following three salient factors in authorizing payment to Mr. Benacin’s holding company— services rendered to United States operations for several years by Mr. Benacin in connection with licensing and distribution of international brands without any cash compensation from United States operations, future international services to be performed by Mr. Benacin relating to licensing and distribution of international brands for United States operations, as well as three years without any increase in his base salary.

63
 

 

A different approach is taken for United States operations as that segment is smaller and less profitable. A more significant base salary is paid in order to attract and retain employees with the skills and talents needed to run the operation with a lesser emphasis placed on bonuses. None of the executive officers for United States operations have employment agreements, as we believe that having flexibility in structuring annual base salary is a benefit, which permits us to act quickly to meet a changing economic environment.

 

For 2014, Andy Clarke, the President of Inter Parfums USA, LLC, the largest subsidiary of the United States operations, received a modest $10,000 increase (3.125%) in base salary, after not having his base salary increased from the $320,000 he received in 2013 and 2012. Beginning in 2012, in lieu of a base salary increase, Mr. Clarke was awarded a commission on certain new sales that he was instrumental in bringing to our company. For 2014, 2013 and 2012, Mr. Clarke received commissions of $217,232, $306,200 and $248,224, respectively. For a detailed discussion of Mr. Clarke’s commission structure for 2014, 2013 and 2012, please see “Bonus Compensation/Annual Incentives”. The Compensation Committee considered Mr. Clarke’s contribution to sales growth as well as the integration of several new licensed brands into our company’s United States operations as the basis for increasing his base salary.

 

Russell Greenberg, the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, received a base salary of $540,000, $510,000 and $480,000 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. This represents salary increases $30,000 in each of 2014 and 2013 and a $23,000 in 2012. In connection with these increases in salary, the Compensation Committee considered the following material factors in granting Mr. Greenberg his salary increase: his individual performance, level of responsibility, skill and experience, as well as the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer.

 

Including $250,000 received by Mr. Madar’s personal holding company in 2014 and 2013 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Madar in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Madar’s base salary aggregated $630,000 in 2014 and 2013 and aggregated $380,000 in 2012. Through 2012, Mr. Madar had not taken a salary increase since 2009 as profitability within the US operations was minimal and he shared the view of Mr. Benacin of the uncertainty as to the status of the Burberry license at that time, Therefore, Mr. Madar determined not to recommend any increase in his base salary to the compensation committee. In 2013, with the Burberry issue behind us and growing profitability of US operations, Mr. Madar was granted a base salary increase of $250,000 paid to his personal holding company for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Madar in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer. We have entered into a consulting agreement with Mr. Madar’s holding company, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company. For 2014, the base salary of Mr. Madar including the consulting fee paid to his personal holding company did not increase from that of 2013. In determining Mr. Madar’s base salary including the consulting fee for 2014, the Committee took into account Mr. Madar’s leadership of our company in general, the increasing profitability of United States operations over the past several years, and his services in assisting United States operations in obtaining new licensing opportunities.

64
 

  

Bonus Compensation/Annual Incentives

 

We have paid a higher percentage of overall compensation in the form of bonus compensation to executive officers of European operations for several years, principally because European operations historically have had higher profitability than United States operations. As the result of this historically higher profitability, European operations have had the ability to pay higher bonus compensation in addition to base salary. As bonus compensation is discretionary, no targets were set in order to maintain flexibility. Further, if results of operations for European operations were not satisfactory (again, no target amounts were set to maintain flexibility), then bonus compensation, as well as overall compensation could be lowered without otherwise affecting base salary.

 

For 2014, Mr. Benacin, the chief decision maker for European operations, proposed and the compensation committee concurred in the payment of bonus compensation of €86,000 to Mr. Benacin (approximately 21% of base salary), and €273,000 (approximately 93% of base salary) to each of Messrs. Santi and Garcia- Pelayo. In addition to individual performance, level of responsibility, skill and experience, another salient factor considered by the Compensation Committee was the 19% increase in sales of continuing brands of European operations. This bonus compensation was in line with 2013 bonus compensation to Mr. Benacin (approximately 20% of base salary) and to Messrs. Santi and Garcia of €268,000 (approximately 96% of base salary).

 

It should be noted that Mr. Benacin had recommended that his bonus compensation for 2013 be reduced to €78,000 (approximately 20% of base salary) from €254,500 which he received for 2012 (approximately 65% of base salary), in order to offset in large part the $250,000 in consulting fees to his personal holding company for 2014, as discussed above. The difference in the bonus compensation from 2013 to 2012, €176,500, approximated $240,000 at then current exchange rates. The Compensation Committee approved the bonus compensation in tandem with the consulting agreement based upon services Mr. Benacin rendered to United States operations for several years in connection with licensing and distribution of international brands without any cash compensation from United States operations, future international services to be performed by Mr. Benacin relating to licensing and distribution of international brands for United States operations, as well as three years without any increase in his base salary. The Compensation Committee also understands that both Mr. Benacin and the Corporation will benefit from lower tax rates by having compensation taken in this form.

 

For 2012, Mr. Benacin, the chief decision maker for European operations, proposed and the committee concurred in the payment of bonus compensation of € 254,500 to Mr. Benacin (approximately 65% of base salary), and €258,000 (approximately 93% of base salary) to each of Messrs. Santi and Garcia- Pelayo. Such bonus compensation exceeded prior bonus compensation as a percentage of base salary, and was given in recognition of the services performed in connection with the resolution of the disposition of the Burberry license in late 2012, as well as the record year for sales and earnings of European operations.

65
 

 

A different approach is taken for United States operations as that segment is smaller and less profitable. A more significant base salary is paid in order to attract and retain employees with the skills and talents needed to run United States operations with a lesser emphasis placed on bonuses. Based upon the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer, for 2014, Mr. Greenberg received a discretionary cash bonus of $50,000, which was the same amount he received in 2013 and 2012. The Compensation Committee considered the following material factors in granting Mr. Greenberg his bonuses: his individual performance, level of responsibility, skill and experience, as well as the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer.

 

For 2012, in lieu of a base salary increase, Mr. Clarke was awarded a commission on certain new sales that he was instrumental in bringing to our company. The commission rate was determined based on internal estimates of sales targets for the new business. For 2012, in determining the projected amount of the commission portion of Mr. Clarke’s estimated compensation, the initial assumption was based upon internal net sales projections of $30 million, which included $20 million for Anna Sui brand sales and $10 million for new secondary market distribution. The commission rate of 0.8% of net sales would yield $240,000 based upon internal projections. However, net sales exceeded the internal projections and his commission rate of 0.8% was based upon actual sales of $31.0, which yielded a total commission of $248,224. As Mr. Clarke was instrumental in obtaining the Anna Sui license for the Company and obtaining this new secondary market distribution, it was determined that such additional compensation was fair in view of his contribution to the Company’s increase in sales.

 

For 2013, no changes were made to the commission structure for Mr. Clarke. Actual net sales for both the Anna Sui brand and secondary market product sales aggregated approximately $38.3 million, and therefore, based upon the commission rate discussed above, Mr. Clarke received a commission of $306,200 for 2013. Due to decreased sales of the Anna Sui brand in 2014, Mr. Clarke received a commission of $217,232. In order to partially offset the loss of commission income and in recognition of the services performed by Mr. Clarke in the development and integration of newly licensed brands, Agent Provocateur, Shanghai Tang and Oscar de la Renta, as well as the acquisition of the new license for the Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister brands in December 2014, the Chief Executive Officer recommended and the compensation committee approved a $50,000 discretionary bonus for Mr. Clarke. For 2013 and 2012, Mr. Clarke did not receive a discretionary cash bonus.

 

Mr. Madar, the Chief Executive Officer did not receive any cash bonus in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

As required by French law, Interparfums SA maintains its own profit sharing plan for all French employees who have completed three months of service, including executive officers of our European operations other than Mr. Benacin, the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA. Benefits are calculated based upon a percentage of taxable income of Interparfums SA and allocated to employees based upon salary. The maximum amount payable per year per employee is €25,000, or approximately $28,750.

 

66
 

 

Calculation of the total annual benefits contribution is made according to the following formula:

 

50% of (Interparfums SA net income, less 5% of shareholders’ equity without net income for the year) times a fraction, the numerator of which is wages, and the denominator of which is net income before tax + wages + taxes (other than income tax) + valuation allowances + amortization expenses + interest expenses.

 

Contribution to individual employees is then made pro rata based upon their individual salaries for the year.

 

Long-Term Incentives

 

Stock Options. We link long-term incentives with corporate performance through the grant of stock options. All options are granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the underlying shares of our common stock on the date of grant, and terminate on or shortly after severance of the executive’s relationship with us. Unless the market price of our common stock increases, corporate executives will have no tangible benefit. Thus, they are provided with the additional incentive to increase individual performance with the ultimate goal of increasing our overall performance. We believe that enhanced executive incentives which result in increased corporate performance tend to build company loyalty. As a general rule, the number of options granted is determined by several factors, but most importantly, both individual and company operating results for the past year, as well as past option grants to such executives.

 

For executive officers of United States operations and European operations, we typically grant nonqualified stock options with a term of 6 years that vest ratably over a 5-year period on a cumulative basis, so that the option will become fully exercisable at the beginning of the sixth year from the date of grant. In addition, option grants to purchase shares of our majority-owned, French subsidiary, Interparfums SA have a term of 6 years and vest 4 years after the date of grant. However, no options were granted by Interparfums SA to any executive officers during 2014, 2013 or 2012.

 

We believe that the vesting period of these options serve a dual purpose: 1. executives will not receive any benefit if they leave prior to such portion of the option vesting; and 2. having a vesting period, matches the service period with the potential benefits of the option. Pursuant to our stock option plan, non-qualified stock options granted to executives terminate immediately upon the executive’s termination of association with our company. This termination provision coupled with a vesting period reduces benefits afforded to an executive when an executive officer leaves our employ.

 

Over the past several years, as our company has grown and the market price of our common stock has increased, Messrs. Madar and Benacin have realized substantial compensation as the result of the exercise of their options. As the two executives most responsible for continued growth and success of our company, the compensation committee believes the granting of options is an appropriate tool to tie a substantial portion of their compensation to the success of our company and is completely warranted.

 

67
 

 

The actual compensation realized as the result of the exercise of options in the past, as well as the future potential of such rewards, are powerful incentives for increased individual performance and ultimately increased company performance. In view of the fact that the executive officers named above contribute significantly to our profitable operations, the compensation committee believes the option grants are valid incentives for these executive officers and are fair to our shareholders. Generally we grant options to executive officers in December of each year.

 

In December for each of the years 2012-2014, upon the recommendation of the company’s Chief Executive Officer, the compensation committee granted options to purchase a total of 19,000 shares of our common stock to each of Jean Madar and Philippe Benacin at the fair market value on the date of grant. Option grants to Messrs. Madar and Benacin were identical as each is the Chief Executive Officer of their respective operating segments. Also in December for each of the years 2012-2014, the compensation committee granted options to purchase 25,000 shares to Mr. Greenberg, the Chief Financial Officer, at the fair market value on the date of grant. The Compensation Committee determined that the option grants for Messrs. Madar, Benacin and Greenberg, which have remained the same for years 2012-2014, were reasonable, so based upon the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer, it determined to keep the option grants for such executive officers at the same level for 2014.

 

Upon recommendation of both Messrs. Madar and Benacin, in December 2014 and January 2015, the compensation committee authorized the grants of options to purchase a total of 6,000 shares to Messrs. Santi and Garcia-Pelayo, which was increased from the December 2013 option grants to purchase a total of 5,000 shares. The December 2013 grants were the same amounts as the aggregate amount granted in December 2012 and January 2013 to Messrs. Santi and Garcia-Pelayo. The grants in December 2014 and January 2015 represented additional compensation for their contribution to our company’s results in 2014.

 

Stock Appreciation Rights

 

Our 2004 stock option plan authorizes us to grant stock appreciation rights, or SARs. An SAR represents a right to receive the appreciation in value, if any, of our common stock over the base value of the SAR. To date, we have not granted any SARs under the 2004 plan. While the compensation committee currently does not plan to grant any SARs under our 2004 plan, it may choose to do so in the future as part of a review of the executive compensation strategy. The Interparfums SA stock option plan does not have stock appreciate rights.

 

Restricted Stock

 

We have not in the past, and we do not have any future plans to grant restricted stock to our executive officers. However, while the compensation committee currently does not plan to authorize any restricted stock plans, the compensation committee may choose to do so in the future as part of a review of the executive compensation strategy.

68
 

 

Other Compensation

 

Mr. Benacin is the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA (European operations), as well as a founder of our company, and we believe we should recognize his responsibility, skills and experience, as well as the results of the company. For 2014, Mr. Benacin received an automobile allowance of €10,800, which is the same amount paid in 2013-2010. Also, Mr. Garcia- Pelayo, Director Export Sales of Interparfums SA, also receives an automobile allowance of €6,800 per year.

 

No Stock Ownership Guidelines

 

We do not require any minimum level of stock ownership by any of our executive officers. As stated above, Messrs. Madar and Benacin, are our largest beneficial shareholders, which aligns their interests with our shareholder base in keeping executive compensation at a reasonable level.

 

Retirement and Pension Plans

 

We maintain a 401(k) plan for United States operations. However, we do not match any contributions to such plan, as we have determined that base compensation together with annual bonuses and stock option awards, are sufficient incentives to retain talented employees. Our European operations maintain a pension plan for its employees as required by French law.

 

Compensation Committee Report

 

We have reviewed and discussed with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis provisions to be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 and the proxy statement for the upcoming annual meeting of shareholders. Based on this review and discussion, we recommend to the board of directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis referred to above be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as well as the proxy statement for the upcoming annual meeting of shareholders.

 

Francois Heilbronn, Jean Levy and Patrick Choël

 

The following table sets forth a summary of all compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to our “named executive officers,” who are our principal executive officer, our principal financial officer, and each of the 3 most highly compensated executive officers of our company. This table covers all such compensation during fiscal years ended December 31, 2014, December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012. For all compensation related matters disclosed in the summary compensation table, and elsewhere where applicable, all amounts paid in euro have been converted to U.S. dollars at the average rate of exchange in each year.

 

 

69
 

 

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

  

Name and Principal Position  Year  Salary ($)   Bonus ($)   Stock
Awards ($)
   Option
Awards
($)(1)
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(2)
   Change in Pension
Value and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings ($)
   All Other
 Compensation ($)(3)
   Total ($) 
Jean Madar,  2014   630,000    -0-    -0-    140,220    -0-    -0-    -0-    770,220 
Chairman and  2013   630,000    -0-    -0-    178,790    -0-    -0-    -0-    808,790 
Chief Executive Officer  2012   380,000    -0-    -0-    106,000    -0-    -0-    -0-    486,000 
                                            
Russell Greenberg,  2014   540,000    50,000    -0-    184,500    -0-    -0-    -0-    774,500 
Chief Financial Officer and  2013   510,000    50,000    -0-    235,250    -0-    -0-    -0-    795,250 
Executive Vice President  2012   480,000    50,000    -0-    139,000    -0-    -0-    -0-    669,000 
                                            
Philippe Benacin, President Inter  2014   799,833    114,217    -0-    140,220    -0-    18,461    13,343    1,086,074 
Parfums, Inc., Chief Executive  2013   518,966    103,475    -0-    178,790    -0-    12,000    14,327    827,558 
Officer of Interparfums SA  2012   502,457    326,880    -0-    106,000    -0-    11,213    13,872    960,422 
                                            
Philippe Santi, Executive Vice  2014   390,461    362,571    -0-    36,900    -0-    18,461    -0-    808,393 
President and Chief Financial  2013   378,877    355,529    -0-    65,870    33,292    12,000    -0-    844,568 
Officer, Interparfums SA  2012   357,577    331,375    -0-    17,000    32,233    11,213    -0-    749,398 
                                            
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo,  2014   390,461    362,571    -0-    36,900    -0-    18,461    9,031    817,424 
Director Export Sales,  2013   378,877    355,529    -0-    65,870    33,292    12,000    9,021    854,589 
Interparfums SA  2012   357,577    331,375    -0-    17,000    32,233    11,213    8,734    758,132 

 

70
 

 

 

 

1 Amounts reflected under Option Awards represent the grant date fair values in 2014, 2013 and 2012 based on the fair value of stock option awards using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The assumptions used in this model are detailed in Footnote 11 to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 and filed with the SEC.

 

2 As required by French law, Interparfums SA maintains its own profit sharing plan for all French employees who have completed three months of service, including executive officers of our European operations other than Mr. Benacin, the Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA Benefits are calculated based upon a percentage of taxable income of Interparfums SA and are allocated to employees based upon salary. The maximum amount payable per year is 25,000 euro, or approximately $28,750.

 

Calculation of total annual benefits contribution is made according to the following formula:

 

50% of (Interparfums SA net income, less 5% of shareholders’ equity without net income for the year) times a fraction, the numerator of which is wages, and the denominator of which is net income before taxes, + wages + taxes (other than income tax) + valuation allowances + amortization expenses + interest expenses.

 

Contribution to individual employees is then made pro rata based upon their individual salaries for the year.

 

3 The following table identifies (i) perquisites and other personal benefits provided to our named executive officers in fiscal 2014, and quantifies those required by SEC rules to be quantified and (ii) all other compensation that is required by SEC rules to be separately identified and quantified.

 

Name and Principal Position  Perquisites
and other
Personal
Benefits ($)
   Personal
Automobile
Expense($)
   Lodging
Expense($)
   Total ($) 
                 
Jean Madar, Chairman
Chief Executive Officer
   -0-    -0-    -0-    -0- 
                     
Russell Greenberg, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President   -0-    -0-    -0-    -0- 
                     
Philippe Benacin, President of Inter Parfums, Inc. and Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA   -0-    14,343    -0-    14,343 
                     
Philippe Santi,
Executive Vice President and Director General Delegue, Interparfums SA
   -0-    -0-    -0-    -0- 
                     
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo,
Director Export Sales,
Interparfums SA
   -0-    9,031    -0-    9,031 

 

71
 

 

Ratio of CEO’s Compensation to Median Compensation of All Employees (Excluding CEO Compensation)

 

We have determined that for 2014, the median total compensation for all of our employees, but excluding the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer, was $117,347. The total compensation for our Chief Executive Officer for 2014 as set forth in the Summary Compensation above was $770,220. Therefore, for 2014 the ratio of the total compensation for our Chief Executive Officer as compared to the median total compensation to all of our employees excluding the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer is 6.6:1.

  

Plan Based Awards

 

The following table sets certain information relating to each grant of an award made by our company to the executive officers of our company listed in the Summary Compensation Table during the past fiscal year (and grants made in January 2015).

 

        Grants of Plan-Based Awards                    
Name   Grant Date   Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
    Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
    All Other
Stock
Awards:  
Number of
Shares of
    All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
    Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option
     
        Threshold
($)
    Target
($)
    Maximum
($)
    Threshold
($)
    Target
($)
    Maximum
($)
    Stock or
Units (#)
    Underlying
Options (#)
    Awards
($/Sh)
    Closing
Price
 
Jean Madar   12/31/14     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       19,000       27.795       27.45  
Russell Greenberg   12/31/14     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       25,000       27.795       27.45  
Philippe Benacin   12/31/14     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       19,000       27.795       27.45  
Philippe Santi   12/31/14     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       5,000       27.795       27.45  
Philippe Santi   1/28/15     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       1,000       25.82       25.79  
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   12/31/14     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       5,000       27.795       27.45  
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   1/28/15     -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       -0-       1,000       25.82       25.79  

 

Options

 

As discussed above, we typically grant nonqualified stock options with a term of 6 years that vest ratably of a 5-year period on a cumulative basis, so that the option will become fully exercisable at the beginning of the sixth year from the date of grant.

 

We believe that the vesting period of these options serves a dual purpose: 1. executives will not receive any benefit if they leave prior to such portion of the option vesting; and 2. having a vesting period matches the service period with the potential benefits of the option.

 

72
 

 

Under our company’s stock option plans, the exercise price is determined by the average of the high and low price on the date of grant, not the closing price as reported by The Nasdaq Stock Market.

 

We also note that the Summary Compensation Table does not include income realized by the named executive officers as the result of the exercise of stock options, but rather reflects the dollar amount recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for options granted in accordance with ASC topic 718-20. However, value realized as the result of stock option exercises is set forth in the table entitled “Option Exercises and Stock Vested”.

  

Interparfums SA Profit Sharing Plan

 

As required by French law, Inter Parfums, SA maintains its own profit sharing plan for all French employees who have completed three months of service, including executive officers of our European operations other than Mr. Benacin, the Chief Executive Officer of Inter Parfums, SA. Benefits are calculated based upon a percentage of taxable income of Interparfums SA and allocated to employees based upon salary. The maximum amount payable per year per employee is 25,000 euros, or approximately $28,750.

 

Calculation of total annual benefits contribution is made according to the following formula:

 

50% of (Interparfums SA net income, less 5% of shareholders’ equity without net income for the year) times a fraction, the numerator of which is wages, and the denominator of which is net income before tax + wages + taxes (other than income tax) + valuation allowances + amortization expenses + interest expenses.

 

Contribution to individual employees is then made pro rata based upon their individual salaries for the year.

  

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to outstanding equity awards of our company held by the executive officers listed in the Summary Compensation Table as of January 31, 2015.

 

73
 

 

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END

 

   Option Awards
Name  Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable(1)
   Number of
Securities
 Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable
   Equity Incentive Plan
Awards: Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned Options
(#)
   Option Exercise
Price ($)
   Option
Expiration
Date
                    
Jean Madar   19,000    -0-    -0-    12.14   12/30/15
    15,200    3,800    -0-    19.025   12/30/16
    11,400    7,600    -0-    15.59   12/29/17
    7,600    11,400    -0-    19.325   12/30/18
    3,800    15,200    -0-    35.75   12/30/19
    -0-    19,000    -0-    27.795   12/30/20
                        
Russell Greenberg   5,000    -0-    -0-    12.14   12/30/15
    20.000    5,000    -0-    19.025   12/30/16
    15,000    10,000    -0-    15.59   12/29/17
    10,000    15,000    -0-    19.325   12/30/18
    5,000    20,000    -0-    35.75   12/30/19
    -0-    25,000    -0-    27.795   12/30/20
                        
Philippe Benacin   19,000    -0-    -0-    12.14   12/30/15
    15,200    3,800    -0-    19.025   12/30/16
    11,400    7,600    -0-    15.59   12/29/17
    7,600    11,400    -0-    19.325   12/30/18
    3,800    15,200    -0-    35.75   12/30/19
    -0-    19,000    -0-    27.795   12/30/20
                        
Philippe Santi   -0-    600    -0-    15.62   3/28/16
    600    600    -0-    19.025   12/30/16
    600    1,200    -0-    15.59   12/29/17
    600    1,800    -0-    19.325   12/30/18
    800    1,200    -0-    22.195   1/30/19
    1,000    4,000    -0-    35.75   12/30/19
    -0-    5,000    -0-    27.795   12/30/20
    -0-    1,000    -0-    25.821   1/27/2021
                        
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   -0-    600    -0-    15.62   3/28/16
    600    600    -0-    19.025   12/30/16
    600    1,200    -0-    15.59   12/29/17
    600    1,800    -0-    19.325   12/30/18
    800    1,200    -0-    22.195   1/30/19
    1,000    4,000    -0-    35.75   12/30/19
    -0-    5,000    -0-    27.795   12/30/20
    -0-    1,000    -0-    25.821   1/27/2021

 

[Footnotes from table above]

1 Except as otherwise noted, all options expire 6 years from the date of grant, and vest 20% each year commencing one year after the date of grant.

  

The following table sets certain information relating to outstanding equity awards granted by Interparfums SA, our majority-owned French subsidiary which has its shares traded on the NYSE Euronext, held by the executive officers of our company listed in the Summary Compensation Table as of the end of the past fiscal year.

 

74
 

  

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS AT FISCAL YEAR-END

OF INTERPARFUMS SA

 

       Option Awards        
Name  Number of Securities
Underlying
Unexercised Options
(#) Exercisable
   Number of Securities
Underlying
Unexercised Options
(#) Unexercisable (1)
   Option
Exercise Price
(euro)(2)
   Option Expiration
Date
Jean Madar   7,542    -0-    10.00   12/16/15
    11,181    -0-    14.30   10/07/16
                   
Russell Greenberg   2,397    -0-    14.30   10/07/16
                   
Philippe Benacin   11,181    -0-    14.30   10/07/16
                   
Philippe Santi   11,181    -0-    14.30   10/07/16
                   
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   11,181    -0-    14.30   10/07/16

[Footnotes from table above]

 

 

1 All options fully vest 4 years after the date of grant.

2 As of December 31, 2014, the closing price of Interparfums SA as reported by Euronext was 22.45 euro, and the exchange rate was 1.2101 U.S. dollars to 1 euro.

 

Option Exercises and Stock Vested

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to each option exercise affected during the past fiscal year, and each vesting of stock, including restricted stock, restricted stock units and similar instruments of our company during the past fiscal year, for the executive officers of our company listed in the Summary Compensation Table.

 

OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK VESTED
   Option Awards   Stock Awards 
Name  Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)
  

Value Realized on
Exercise

($)1 

   Number of Shares
Acquired on Vesting
(#)
   Value Realized
On Vesting
($)
 
                 
Jean Madar   32,875    665,353    -0-    -0- 
                     
Russell Greenberg   18,000    429,087    -0-    -0- 
                     
Philippe Benacin   32,875    665,353    -0-    -0- 
                     
Philippe Santi   6,000    115,408    -0-    -0- 
                     
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   6,000    114,047    -0-    -0- 

[Footnotes from table above]

 

 

1Total value realized on exercise of options in dollars is based upon the difference between the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise, and the exercise price of the option.
75
 

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to each option exercise effected during the past fiscal year, and each vesting of stock, including restricted stock, restricted stock units and similar instruments during the past fiscal year, of Interparfums SA, our majority-owned French subsidiary which has its shares traded on the Euronext, for the executive officers of our company listed in the Summary Compensation Table.

  

OPTION EXERCISES AND STOCK VESTED
   Option Awards   Stock Awards 
Name  Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)
  

Value Realized on
Exercise

(euro)1 

   Number of Shares
Acquired on Vesting
(#)
   Value Realized
On Vesting
($)
 
                 
Jean Madar   3,000    36,000    -0-    -0- 
                     
Philippe Benacin   -0-    -0-    -0-    -0- 
                     
Russell Greenberg   1,758    21,096    -0-    -0- 
                     
Philippe Santi   8,785    105,420    -0-    -0- 
                     
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo   8,785    105,420    -0-    -0- 

[Footnotes from table above]

 

 

1Total value realized on exercise of options in dollars is based upon the difference between the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise, and the exercise price of the option.

  

Pension Benefits

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to payment of benefits in connection with retirement plans during the past fiscal year, for the executive officers of our company listed in the Summary Compensation Table.

 

PENSION BENEFITS

Name  Plan Name  Number of Years
Credited Service
(#)
  Present Value of
Accumulated Benefit
($)
   Payments During
Last Fiscal Year
($)
 
Jean Madar  NA  NA   -0-    -0- 
Russell Greenberg  NA  NA   -0-    -0- 
Philippe Benacin  Inter Parfums SA Pension Plan  NA   221,100    21,900 
Philippe Santi  Inter Parfums SA Pension Plan  NA   262,200    21,900 
Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo  Inter Parfums SA Pension Plan  NA   215,100    21,900 

 

76
 

 

Interparfums SA maintains a pension plan for all of its employees, including all executive officers. The calculation of commitments for severance benefits involves estimating the probable present value of projected benefit obligations. This projected benefit obligations is then prorated to take into account seniority of the employees of Interparfums SA on the calculation date.

 

In calculating benefits, the following assumptions were applied:

 

- voluntary retirement at age 65;

- a rate of 45% for employer payroll contributions for all employees;

- a 4% average annual salary increase;

- an annual rate of turnover for all employees under 55 years of age and nil above;

- the TH 00-02 mortality table for men and the TF 00-02 mortality table for women;

- a discount rate of 2.0%.

 

The normal retirement age is 65 years, but employees, including Messrs. Benacin, Santi and Garcia-Pelayo, can collect reduced benefits if they retire at age 60.

 

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

 

We do not maintain any nonqualified deferred compensation plans.

 

Employment and Consulting Agreements

 

As part of our acquisition in 1991 of the controlling interest in Interparfums SA, now a subsidiary, we entered into an employment agreement with Philippe Benacin. The agreement provides that Mr. Benacin will be employed as Vice Chairman of the Board and President and Chief Executive Officer of Inter Parfums Holdings and its subsidiary, Interparfums SA. The initial term expired on September 2, 1992, and has subsequently been automatically renewed for additional annual periods. The agreement provides for automatic annual renewal terms, unless either party terminates the agreement upon 120 days’ notice. For 2015, Mr. Benacin presently receives an annual salary of €420,000 (approximately $483,000), and automobile expenses of €10,800 (approximately $12,420), which are subject to increase in the discretion of the board of directors. The agreement also provides for indemnification and a covenant not to compete for one year after termination of employment.

 

In 2014, we enter into a consulting agreement with Mr. Benacin’s holding company, Philippe Benacin Holding SAS, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company. The agreement also provides for indemnification for Mr. Benacin and his holding company and a covenant not to compete for one year after termination of the agreement. The agreement was for one year, with automatic one year renewals unless either party terminates on 120 days’ notice or Mr. Benacin ceases to be the President of our company. For 2014, Mr. Benacin’s personal holding company received $250,000 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Benacin in his capacity as President. This consulting agreement has been renewed at $250,000 for 2015.

 

77
 

 

In 2013, we enter into a consulting agreement with Mr. Madar’s holding company, Jean Madar Holding SAS, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company. The agreement also provides for indemnification for Mr. Madar and his holding company and a covenant not to compete for one year after termination of the agreement. The agreement was for one year, with automatic one year renewals unless either party terminates on 120 days’ notice or Mr. Madar ceases to be the Chief Executive Officer of our company. For 2014, Mr. Madar’s personal holding company received $250,000 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Madar in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer. This consulting agreement has been renewed at $250,000 for 2015.

 

Compensation of Directors

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the compensation for each of our directors who is not an executive officer of our Company named in the Summary Compensation Table for the past fiscal year.

 

           DIRECTOR COMPENSATION         
Name  Fees
Earned
or Paid
in Cash
($)
   Stock
Awards
($)
   Option
Awards
($)
   Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)
   Change in
Pension
Value and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
   All Other
Compensation
($)
   Total ($) 
Francois Heilbronn1   16,000    -0-    8,370    -0-    -0-    14,135    38,505 
Jean Levy2   14,000    -0-    8,370    -0-    -0-    -0-    22,370 
Robert Bensoussan3   12,000    -0-    8,370    -0-    -0-    7,068    27,438 
Patrick Choël4   18,000    -0-    4,185    -0-    -0-    9,512    31,697 
Michel Dyens5   6,000    -0-    17,300    -0-    -0-    -0-    23,300 

 

[Footnotes from table above]

 

 

1.As of the end of the last fiscal year, Mr. Heilbronn held options to purchase an aggregate of 3,500 shares of our common stock.
2.As of the end of the last fiscal year, Mr. Levy held options to purchase an aggregate of 3,500 shares of our common stock.
3.As of the end of the last fiscal year, Mr. Bensoussan-Torres held options to purchase an aggregate of 3,000 shares of our common stock.
4.As of the end of the last fiscal year, Mr. Choël held options to purchase an aggregate of 2,250 shares of our common stock.
5.As of the end of the last fiscal year, Mr. Dyens held options to purchase an aggregate of 2,000 shares of our common stock.

 

For 2014, all nonemployee directors received $4,000 for each board meeting at which they participate in person, and $2,000 for each meeting held by conference telephone. In addition, the annual fee for each member of the audit committee is $6,000.

 

78
 

 

We maintain stock option plans for our nonemployee directors. The purpose of these plans is to assist us in attracting and retaining key directors who are responsible for continuing the growth and success of our company. Under such plans, options to purchase 1,000 shares are granted on each February 1st to all nonemployee directors for as long as each is a nonemployee director on such date. However, if a nonemployee director does not attend certain of the board meetings, then such option grants are reduced according to a schedule. In addition, options to purchase 2,000 shares are granted to each nonemployee director upon his initial election or appointment to our board.

 

On September 8, 2014, an option to purchase 2,000 shares at the exercise price of $29.355 was granted to Michel Dyens upon his election to our board of directors in accordance with the provisions of our 2004 plan. On February 1, 2015, options to purchase 1,000 shares were granted to each of Francois Heilbronn, Jean Levy, Robert Bensoussan-Torres and Patrick Choël, all at the exercise price of $25.285 per share under the 2004 plan. All of such options were granted at the fair market value and vest ratably over a 4 year period.

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

 

The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our common stock by (a) each person we know to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, (b) our executive officers and directors and (c) all of our directors and officers as a group. Each of Messrs. Madar and Benacin own 99.99% of their respective personal holding companies. As of March 9, 2015, we had 30,978,603 shares of common stock outstanding.

 

Name and Address
of Beneficial Owner
  Amount of Beneficial Ownership1   Approximate Percent of Class 
Jean Madar
c/o Interparfums SA
4, Rond Point Des Champs Elysees
75008 Paris, France
   7,129,8922   23.0%
           
Philippe Benacin
c/o Interparfums SA
4, Rond Point Des Champs Elysees
75008 Paris, France
   6,926,3943   22.4%

 

 

 

1All shares of common stock are directly held with sole voting power and sole power to dispose, unless otherwise stated. Options which are exercisable within 60 days are included in beneficial ownership calculations. Jean Madar, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Philippe Benacin, the Vice Chairman of the Board and President of the Company, have a verbal agreement or understanding to vote their shares in a like manner.

2Consists of 40,551 shares held directly, 7,032,341 shares held indirectly through Jean Madar Holding SAS, a personal holding company, and options to purchase 57,000 shares.

3Consists of 37,542 shares held directly, 6,846,064 shares held indirectly through Philippe Benacin Holding SAS, a personal holding company, and options to purchase 57,000 shares.

 

79
 

 

Name and Address
of Beneficial Owner
  Amount of Beneficial Ownership1     Approximate Percent of Class  
Russell Greenberg
c/o Inter Parfums, Inc.
551 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10176
    55,000 4     Less than 1%  
                 
Philippe Santi
Interparfums SA
4, Rond Point Des Champs Elysees
75008, Paris France
    4,200 5     Less than 1%  
                 
Francois Heilbronn
60 Avenue de Breteuil
75007 Paris, France
    30,688 6   Less than 1%  
                 
Jean Levy
17, rue Margueritte
75017 Paris, France
    3,750 7     Less than 1%  
                 
Robert Bensoussan-Torres
c/o Sirius Equity LLP
52 Brook Street
W1K 5DS London
    9,000 8     Less than 1%  
                 
Patrick Choël
140 Rue de Grenelle
75007, Paris, France
    9,875 9     Less than 1%  
                 
Michel Dyens
Michel Dyens & Co.
17 Avenue Montaigne
75008 Paris, France
    -0-       NA  
                 
Frederic Garcia-Pelayo
Interparfums SA
4, Rond Point Des Champs Elysees
75008, Paris France
    3,600 10     Less than 1%  
                 

Axel Marot
Interparfums SA
4, Rond Point Des Champs Elysees
75008, Paris

France

    -0-       NA  

 

 

 

4 Consists of shares of common stock underlying options.

5 Consists of shares of common stock underlying options.

6 Consists of 28,563 shares held directly and options to purchase 2,125 shares.

7 Consists of 2,000 shares held directly and options to purchase 1,750 shares.

8 Consists of 7,500 shares held directly and options to purchase 1,500 shares.

9 Consists of 8,875 shares held directly and options to purchase 1,000 shares.

10 Consists of shares of common stock underlying options.

80
 

 

Name and Address
of Beneficial Owner
  Amount of Beneficial Ownership1     Approximate Percent of Class  
Henry B. (Andy) Clarke
c/o Inter Parfums, Inc.
551 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10176
    24,125 11   Less than 1%  
               

NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC

2049 Century Park East, 16th Floor

Los Angeles, CA 9006712 

    1,597,146     5.2%  
               
All Directors and Officers
(As a Group 12 Persons)
    14,210,736 13   45.6%  

  

The following table sets forth certain information as of the end of our last fiscal year regarding all equity compensation plans that provide for the award of equity securities or the grant of options, warrants or rights to purchase our equity securities.

  

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

Plan category  Number of
securities to
be issued
upon
exercise of
outstanding
options,
warrants and
rights  
(a)
   Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding
options, warrants
and rights  
(b)
   Number of securities
remaining
available for
future issuance
under equity
compensation
plans
(excluding
securities
reflected in
column (a))
(c)
 
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders   639,495    23.19    328,535 
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders   -0-    N/A    -0- 
Total   639,495    23.19    328,535 

 

 

11 Consists of 1,625 shares held directly and options to purchase 22,500 shares.

12 Information based upon Schedule 13G of NWQ Investment Management Company, LLC dated January 30, 2015 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

13 Consists of 14,005,061 shares held directly or indirectly, and options to purchase 205,675shares.

 

81
 

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

 

Transactions with European Subsidiaries

 

We have guaranteed the obligations of our majority-owned, French subsidiary, Interparfums SA under our former Burberry license and our Paul Smith license agreement. We also provide (or had provided on our behalf) certain financial, accounting and legal services for Interparfums SA, and during 2014, 2013 and 2012 fees for such services were $138,438, $158,750 and $337,438, respectively. In January 2012, Inter Parfums USA, LLC, a United States subsidiary, signed a five year license agreement with Interparfums Suisse (SARL), a Swiss subsidiary of Interparfums SA, for the right to sell amenities under the Lanvin brand name to luxury hotels, cruise lines and airlines in return for royalty payments as are customary in our industry. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, Inter Parfums USA, LLC, a United States subsidiary, paid Interparfums Singapore Pte., Ltd., a subsidiary of Interparfums SA, approximately $78,952, $114,000 and $110,000, respectively as reimbursement for expenses for employees and use of their offices by Inter Parfums USA, LLC, including a reasonable allocation of overhead. We estimate that future payments under this arrangement will be approximately $150,000 per year.

 

Option Exercise with Tender of Previously Owned Shares

 

The Chief Executive Officer and the President each exercised 32,875, 28,500 and 60,000 outstanding stock options of the Company’s common stock in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The aggregate exercise prices of $0.6 million in 2014, $0.7 million in 2013 and $1.6 million in 2012 were paid by them tendering to the Company in 2014, 2013 and 2012, an aggregate of 19,656, 18,880 and 82,322 shares, respectively, of the Company’s common stock, previously owned by them, valued at fair market value on the dates of exercise. All shares issued pursuant to these option exercises were issued from treasury stock of the Company. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer tendered in 2014, 2013 and 2012 an additional 3,112, 2,573 and 4,710 shares, respectively, for payment of certain withholding taxes resulting from his option exercises.

 

Consulting Agreements

 

In 2014, we enter into a consulting agreement with Mr. Benacin’s holding company, Philippe Benacin Holding SAS, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company. The agreement also provides for indemnification for Mr. Benacin and his holding company and a covenant not to compete for one year after termination of the agreement. The agreement was for one year, with automatic one year renewals unless either party terminates on 120 days’ notice or Mr. Benacin ceases to be the President of our company. For 2014, Mr. Benacin’s personal holding company received $250,000 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Benacin for the benefit of the Company’s United States operations, in his capacity as President. This consulting agreement has been renewed at $250,000 for 2015.

 

82
 

 

In 2013, we enter into a consulting agreement with Mr. Madar’s holding company, Jean Madar Holding SAS, which provides for review on an annual basis of the amount of compensation payable to such company. The agreement also provides for indemnification for Mr. Madar and his holding company and a covenant not to compete for one year after termination of the agreement. The agreement was for one year, with automatic one year renewals unless either party terminates on 120 days’ notice or Mr. Madar ceases to be the Chief Executive Officer of our company. In 2014 and 2013, Mr. Madar’s personal holding company received $250,000 for services rendered outside of the United States by Mr. Madar in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer. This consulting agreement has been renewed at $250,000 for 2015.

  

Distribution and Support Arrangements with Clarins

 

During 2010, we formed Interparfums Luxury Brands, Inc., a Delaware corporation and subsidiary of our majority-owned French subsidiary Interparfums SA, for distribution of prestige brands in the United States. Interparfums Luxury Brands has also entered into an agreement with Clarins Fragrance Group US (a Division of Clarins Group) effective January 1, 2011, to share and manage an expanded sales force. Logistical and administrative support is provided by Clarins Group USA from its Park Avenue offices in New York and its warehouse in Orangeburg, New York. In addition, in 2011, our Spanish distribution subsidiary also entered into a similar service agreement with a Clarins subsidiary relating to distribution of prestige fragrances in Spain. In November 2013, Interparfums Luxury Brands and Clarins U.S.A., Inc. entered into an Extension Agreement, which extended the terms of the Clarins U.S. Services Agreement until June 30, 2015 on the same terms and conditions (the “Clarins Extension Agreement”). Mr. Serge Rosinoer, a former director of our Company who passed away in January 2014, was the Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Clarins SA, the parent company of both the Clarins Fragrance Group US and the Clarins subsidiary.

 

Jimmy Choo

 

Interparfums SA and J Choo Limited entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement commencing on January 1, 2010 and expiring on December 31, 2021, for the creation, development and distribution of fragrances under the Jimmy Choo brand. Mr. Robert Bensoussan, a director of the Corporation, was a director of J Choo Limited and had an indirect ownership interest in J Choo Limited until July 2011.

 

Procedures for Approval of Related Person Transactions

 

Transactions between related persons, such as between an executive officer or director and our company, or any company or person controlled by such officer or director, are required to be approved by our Audit Committee of our board of directors. Our Audit Committee Charter contains such explicit authority, as required by the applicable rules of The Nasdaq Stock Market.

 

83
 

 

Director Independence

 

The following are our directors who are “independent directors” within the applicable rules of The Nasdaq Stock Market:

 

Francois Heilbronn

Jean Levy

Robert Bensoussan-Torres

Patrick Choël

Michel Dyens

 

We follow and comply with the independent director definitions as provided by The Nasdaq Stock Market rules in determining the independence of our directors, which are posted on our company’s website. In addition, such rules are also available on The Nasdaq Stock Market’s website. In addition, The Nasdaq Stock Market maintains more stringent rules relating to director independence for the members of our Audit Committee, and the members of our Audit Committee, Messrs. Heilbronn, Levy and Choël, are independent within the meaning of those rules.

 

On January 8, 2014 our company was advised that one of our directors, Serge Rosinoer, passed away, and on the same day we notified Nasdaq OMX of such event. Prior to the death of Mr. Rosinoer, we had nine (9) directors, with a majority of independent directors. In September 2015, Michel Dyens, an independent director, was elected to our board of directors by our stockholders at our 2014 annual meeting. As the result of the election of Mr. Dyens to the board, we again have a board with nine members and a majority of independent directors and are in compliance with the requirement to have a majority of independent directors as set forth in Nasdaq Rule 5605(b)(1)(A).

 

Board Leadership Structure and Risk Management

 

For more than the past ten (10) years, Jean Madar has held the positions of Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of our company. Almost since inception, Mr. Madar has been allocated the responsibility of overseeing our United States operations and the operation of Inter Parfums, Inc., as a public company. Philippe Benacin, as Chief Executive Officer of Interparfums SA, has been allocated the responsibility of overseeing our European operations and its operation as a public company in France. In addition, Mr. Benacin is also the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of our company. Our board of directors is comfortable with this approach, as the two largest stockholders of our company are also directly responsible for the operations of our company’s two operating segments. Accordingly, our board of directors does not have a “Lead Director,” a non-management director who controls the meetings of our board of directors.

 

Our board of directors manages risk by (i) review of period operating reports and discussions with management; (ii) approval of executive compensation incentive plans through its committee, the Executive Compensation and Stock Option Committee; (iii) approval of related party transactions through its committee, the Audit Committee; and (iv) approval of material transactions not in the ordinary course of business. Since our inception, we have never been the subject of any material product liability claims, and we have had no recent material property damage claims.

 

84
 

 

Further, we periodically enter into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to hedge exposure related to receivables denominated in a foreign currency and to manage risks related to future sales expected to be denominated in a foreign currency. We enter into these exchange contracts for periods consistent with our identified exposures. The purpose of the hedging activities is to minimize the effect of foreign exchange rate movements on the receivables and cash flows of Interparfums SA, our French subsidiary, whose functional currency is the Euro. All foreign currency contracts are denominated in currencies of major industrial countries and are with large financial institutions, which are rated as strong investment grade.

 

In addition, we mitigate interest rate risk by continually monitoring interest rates, and then determining whether fixed interest rates should be swapped for floating rate debt, or if floating rate debt should be swapped for fixed rate debt.

 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Fees

 

The following sets forth the fees billed to us by WeiserMazars LLP, as well as discusses the services provided for the past two fiscal years, fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

Audit Fees

 

During 2014, the fees billed by WeiserMazars LLP and its affiliate, Mazars S.A. for audit services and review of the financial statements contained in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q were $0.9 million. During 2013, the fees billed by WeiserMazars LLP and its affiliate, Mazars S.A. for audit services and review of the financial statements contained in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q were $1.0 million.

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

WeiserMazars LLP did not bill us for any audit-related services during 2014 or 2013.

 

Tax Fees

 

WeiserMazars LLP did not bill us for tax services during 2014 or 2013.

 

All Other Fees

 

WeiserMazars LLP did not bill us for any other services during 2014 or 2013.

 

85
 

 

Audit Committee Pre Approval Policies and Procedures

 

The Audit Committee has the sole authority for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the work of our independent accountants, who prepare or issue an audit report for us.

 

During the first quarter of 2014, the audit committee authorized the following non-audit services to be performed by WeiserMazars LLP.

 

·We authorized the engagement of WeiserMazars LLP if deemed necessary to provide tax consultation in the ordinary course of business for fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.

 

·We authorized the engagement of WeiserMazars LLP if deemed necessary to provide tax consultation as may be required on a project by project basis that would not be considered in the ordinary course of business, of up to a $5,000 fee limit per project, subject to an aggregate fee limit of $25,000 for fiscal year ending December 31, 2014. If we require further tax services from WeiserMazars LLP, then the approval of the audit committee must be obtained.

 

·If we require other services by WeiserMazars LLP on an expedited basis such that obtaining pre-approval of the audit committee is not practicable, then the Chairman of the Committee has authority to grant the required pre-approvals for all such services.

 

·We imposed a cap of $100,000 on the fees that WeiserMazars LLP can charge for services on an expedited basis that are approved by the Chairman without obtaining full audit committee approval.

 

·None of the non-audit services of either of the Company’s auditors had the pre-approval requirement waived in accordance with Rule 2-01(c)(7)(i)(C) of Regulation S-X.

 

In the first quarter of 2015, the audit committee authorized the same non-audit services to be performed by WeiserMazars LLP during 2014 as disclosed above.

 

 

86
 

 

PART IV

 

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

 

  Page
   
(a)(1) Financial Statements annexed hereto  
   
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms F-2
   
Audited Financial Statements:  
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 F-3
   
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-4
   
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-5
   
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-6
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-7
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-8
   
(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedule:  
   
Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts F-27
   
(a)(3) Exhibits – The list of exhibits is contained in the Exhibit Index, which follows the signature page of this report.  

 

87
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedule

 

Index

 

  Page
   
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm F-2
   
Audited Financial Statements:  
   
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 F-3
   
Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-4
   
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-5
   
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-6
   
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014 F-7
   
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-8
   
Financial Statement Schedule:  
   
Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts F-27

 

F-1
 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Inter Parfums, Inc.

New York, New York

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Inter Parfums, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income (loss), changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our 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 audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Inter Parfums, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements enumerated above, we audited Schedule II for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. In our opinion, Schedule II, when considered in relation to the financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information stated therein.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Inter Parfums, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 11, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

/s/ WeiserMazars LLP

 

New York, New York

March 11, 2015

 

F-2
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets

December 31, 2014 and 2013

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

   2014   2013 
Assets          
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $90,138   $125,650 
Short-term investments   190,152    181,677 
Accounts receivable, net   90,124    79,932 
Inventories   102,326    117,347 
Receivables, other   1,542    2,418 
Other current assets   4,504    4,775 
Income taxes receivable   929    6,435 
Deferred tax assets   6,848    7,257 
Total current assets   486,563    525,491 
Equipment and leasehold improvements, net   9,187    10,444 
Trademarks, licenses and other intangible assets, net   98,531    116,243 
Other assets   10,225    11,880 
Total assets  $604,506   $664,058 
           
Liabilities and Equity          
Current liabilities:          
Loans payable – banks  $298   $6,104 
Accounts payable - trade   46,646    56,736 
Accrued expenses   49,194    58,333 
Income taxes payable   3,773    1,270 
Dividends payable   3,717    3,704 
Total current liabilities   103,628    126,147 
Deferred tax liability   2,154    2,555 
Commitments and contingencies          
Equity:          
Inter Parfums, Inc. shareholders’ equity:          
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value. Authorized 1,000,000 shares; none issued          
Common stock, $0.001 par value. Authorized 100,000,000 shares; outstanding, 30,977,293 and 30,863,421 shares at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively   31    31 
Additional paid-in capital   60,200    57,877 
Retained earnings   374,121    359,459 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

   (15,823)   25,860 
Treasury stock, at cost, 9,987,995 and 9,940,977 common shares at December 31, 2014 and 2013   (36,464)   (36,016)
Total Inter Parfums, Inc. shareholders’ equity   382,065    407,211 
Noncontrolling interest   116,659    128,145 
Total equity   498,724    535,356 
Total liabilities and equity  $604,506   $664,058 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-3
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Income

Years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

   2014   2013   2012 
             
Net sales  $499,261   $563,579   $654,117 
Cost of sales   212,224    234,800    246,931 
Gross margin   287,037    328,779    407,186 
                
Selling, general, and administrative expenses   233,634    250,025    325,799 
Gain on termination of license           (198,838)
Impairment of goodwill           1,811 
Total operating expenses   233,634    250,025    128,772 
Income from operations   53,403    78,754    278,414 
Other expenses (income):               
Interest expense   1,478    1,380    1,654 
(Gain) loss on foreign currency   (902)   1,168    3,128 
Interest and dividend income   (3,888)   (4,440)   (1,133)
    (3,312)   (1,892)   3,649 
                
Income before income taxes   56,715    80,646    274,765 
Income taxes   19,370    29,680    97,875 
Net income   37,345    50,966    176,890 
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interest   7,909    11,755    45,754 
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.  $29,436   $39,211   $131,136 
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders:               
Basic  $0.95   $1.27   $4.29 
Diluted   0.95    1.27    4.26 
Weighted average number of shares outstanding:               
Basic   30,931,308    30,763,955    30,574,772 
Diluted   31,060,326    30,953,882    30,715,684 
                
Dividends declared per share  $0.48   $0.96   $0.32 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements

 

F-4
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

   2014   2013   2012 
             
Net income  $37,345   $50,966   $176,890 
                
Other comprehensive income (loss):               
Net derivative instrument gain, net of tax           22 
Transfer from OCI into earnings       (327)    
Translation adjustments, net of tax   (57,806)   19,027    6,419 
    (57,806)   18,700    6,441 
Comprehensive income (loss)   (20,461)   69,666    183,331 
                
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests:               
Net income   7,909    11,755    45,754 
Net derivative instrument gain, net of tax           6 
Transfer from OCI into earnings       (87)    
Translation adjustments, net of tax   (16,123)   5,425    1,684 
    (8,214)   17,093    47,444 
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Inter Parfums Inc.:    $(12,247)  $52,573   $135,887 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-5
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

Years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

   2014   2013   2012 
             
Common stock, beginning and end of period  $31   $31   $31 
                
Additional paid-in capital, beginning of period   57,877    54,679    50,883 
Shares issued upon exercise of stock options   1,981    2,882    2,568 
Sale of subsidiary shares to noncontrolling interests   (335)   (173)   737 
Stock compensation   677    489    491 
Additional paid-in capital, end of period   60,200    57,877    54,679 
                
Retained earnings, beginning of period   359,459    349,672    228,164 
Net income   29,436    39,211    131,136 
Dividends   (14,855)   (29,582)   (9,789)
Stock compensation   81    158    161 
Retained earnings, end of period   374,121    359,459    349,672 
                
Accumulated other comprehensive income, beginning of period   25,860    12,498    7,747 
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (41,683)   13,602    4,735 
Transfer from OCI into earnings       (240)    
Net derivative instrument gain, net of tax           16 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), end of period   (15,823)   25,860    12,498 
                
Treasury stock, beginning of period   (36,016)   (35,404)   (34,151)
Shares issued upon exercise of stock options   219    203    409 
Shares received as proceeds of option exercises   (667)   (815)   (1,662)
Treasury stock, end of period   (36,464)   (36,016)   (35,404)
                
Noncontrolling interest, beginning of period   128,145    118,505    71,676 
Net income   7,909    11,755    45,754 
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (16,123)   5,425    1,684 
Net derivative instrument gain, net of tax           6 
Transfer from OCI into earnings       (87)    
Sale of subsidiary shares to noncontrolling interest   1,365    830    2,659 
Dividends   (4,667)   (8,341)   (3,333)
Stock-based compensation   30    58    59 
Noncontrolling interest, end of period   116,659    128,145    118,505 
                
Total equity  $498,724   $535,356   $499,981 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012

(In thousands)

 

   2014   2013   2012 
Cash flows from operating activities:               
Net income  $37,345   $50,966   $176,890 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:               
Depreciation and amortization   10,166    11,110    15,554 
Impairment of goodwill         1,811 
Provision for doubtful accounts   

412

    574    914 
Noncash stock compensation   856    838    832 
Gain on termination of license         (198,838)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements   (670)   (700)   (100)
Deferred tax expense (benefit)   (557)   4,844    (7,903)
Change in fair value of derivatives         (68)
Changes in:               
Accounts receivable   (19,607)   71,776    27,302 
Inventories   4,344    29,240    13,568 
Other assets   780    426    (9,611)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   (4,996)   (33,156)   (40,773)
Income taxes, net   8,540    (86,724)   81,063 
Net cash provided by operating activities   36,613    49,194    60,641 
Cash flows from investing activities:               
Purchases of short-term investments   (245,810)   (381,843)   
Proceeds from sale of short-term investments   212,762    207,082    
Proceeds from termination of license, net of transaction fees and other settlements           235,650 
Purchase of equipment and leasehold improvements   (3,302)   (5,015)   (9,474)
Payment for intangible assets acquired   (922)   (7,769)   (19,717)
Proceeds from sale of equipment      2,801    
Proceeds from sale of trademark      3,481    
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   (37,272)   (181,263)   206,459 
Cash flows from financing activities:               
Proceeds from (repayments of) loans payable – banks   (5,765)   (21,835)   15,300 
Repayment of long-term debt           (4,379)
Purchase of treasury stock   (90)   (98)   (90)

Proceeds from exercise of options

   953    1,668    1,305 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation arrangements   670    700    100 
Proceeds from sale of stock of subsidiary   1,030    657    3,396 
Dividends paid   (14,841)   (28,331)   (9,780)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests   (4,667)   (8,341)   (3,333)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   (22,710)   (55,580)   2,519 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash   (12,143)   5,964    1,860 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   (35,512)   (181,685)   271,479 
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of year   125,650    307,335    35,856 
Cash and cash equivalents – end of year  $90,138   $125,650   $307,335 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:               
Cash paid for:               
Interest  $1,508   $1,524   $1,799 
Income taxes   10,430    104,992    20,584 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-7
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

(1)The Company and its Significant Accounting Policies

 

Business of the Company

 

Inter Parfums, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) are in the fragrance business, and manufacture and distribute a wide array of fragrances and fragrance related products.

 

Substantially all of our prestige fragrance brands are licensed from unaffiliated third parties, and our business is dependent upon the continuation and renewal of such licenses. Burberry was our most significant license and net sales of Burberry products represented 0%, 23% and 46% of net sales in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively (see Note (2) “Termination of Burberry License”). In addition, the Company owns the Lanvin brand name for its class of trade, and licenses the Montblanc and Jimmy Choo brand names among others. As a percentage of net sales, product sales for the Company’s largest brands were as follows:

 

   Year Ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Montblanc   22%   15%   9%
Lanvin   18%   15%   12%
Jimmy Choo   16%   13%   8%

 

No other brand represented 10% or more of consolidated net sales.

 

Basis of Preparation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, including 73% owned Interparfums SA (“IPSA”), a subsidiary whose stock is publicly traded in France. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

 

Management Estimates

 

Management makes assumptions and estimates to prepare financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Those assumptions and estimates directly affect the amounts reported and disclosures included in the consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from those assumptions and estimates. Significant estimates for which changes in the near term are considered reasonably possible and that may have a material impact on the financial statements are disclosed in these notes to the consolidated financial statements.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

For foreign subsidiaries with operations denominated in a foreign currency, assets and liabilities are translated to U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the year. Gains and losses from translation adjustments are accumulated in a separate component of shareholders’ equity.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments

 

All highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents. From time to time, the Company has short-term investments which consist of certificates of deposit with maturities greater than three months. The Company monitors concentrations of credit risk associated with financial institutions with which the Company conducts significant business. The Company believes its credit risk is minimal, as the Company primarily conducts business with large, well-established financial institutions. Substantially all cash and cash equivalents are held at financial institutions outside the United States and are readily convertible into U.S. dollars.

 

F-8
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Accounts Receivable

 

Accounts receivable represent payments due to the Company for previously recognized net sales, reduced by allowances for sales returns and doubtful accounts or balances which are estimated to be uncollectible, which aggregated $6.9 million and $6.4 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Accounts receivable balances are written-off against the allowance for doubtful accounts when they become uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously recorded against the allowance are recorded in the consolidated statement of income when received. We generally grant credit based upon our analysis of the customer’s financial position, as well as previously established buying patterns.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories, including promotional merchandise, only include inventory considered saleable or usable in future periods, and is stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined on the first-in, first-out method. Cost components include raw materials, components, direct labor and overhead (e.g., indirect labor, utilities, depreciation, purchasing, receiving, inspection and warehousing) as well as inbound freight. Promotional merchandise is charged to cost of sales at the time the merchandise is shipped to the Company’s customers. Overhead included in inventory aggregated $3.3 million, $3.6 million and $4.0 million as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Included in inventories is an inventory reserve, which represents the difference between the cost of the inventory and its estimated realizable value, based upon sales forecasts and the physical condition of the inventories. In addition, and as necessary, specific reserves for future known or anticipated events may be established. Inventory reserves aggregated $6.0 million and $6.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Derivatives

 

All derivative instruments are recorded as either assets or liabilities and measured at fair value. The Company uses derivative instruments to principally manage a variety of market risks. For derivatives designated as hedges of the exposure to changes in fair value of the recognized asset or liability or a firm commitment (referred to as fair value hedges), the gain or loss is recognized in earnings in the period of change together with the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the risk being hedged. The effect of that accounting is to include in earnings the extent to which the hedge is not effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the derivative’s gain or loss is initially reported in equity (as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income) and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the gain or loss of a cash flow hedge is reported in earnings immediately. The Company also holds certain instruments for economic purposes that are not designated for hedge accounting treatment. For these derivative instruments, changes in their fair value are recorded in earnings immediately.

 

Equipment and Leasehold Improvements

 

Equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives for equipment, which range between three and ten years and the shorter of the lease term or estimated useful asset lives for leasehold improvements. Depreciation provided on equipment used to produce inventory, such as tools and molds, is included in cost of sales.

 

F-9
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

Indefinite-lived intangible assets principally consist of trademarks which are not amortized. The Company evaluates indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently when events occur or circumstances change, such as an unexpected decline in sales, that would more likely than not indicate that the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset may not be recoverable. When testing indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, the evaluation requires a comparison of the estimated fair value of the asset to the carrying value of the asset. The fair values used in our evaluations are estimated based upon discounted future cash flow projections using a weighted average cost of capital of 6.7%. The cash flow projections are based upon a number of assumptions, including, future sales levels and future cost of goods and operating expense levels, as well as economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in consumer acceptance of our products which are more subjective in nature. If the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment testing whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an amortizable intangible asset may not be recoverable. If impairment indicators exist for an amortizable intangible asset, the undiscounted future cash flows associated with the expected service potential of the asset are compared to the carrying value of the asset. If our projection of undiscounted future cash flows is in excess of the carrying value of the intangible asset, no impairment charge is recorded. If our projection of undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying value of the intangible asset, an impairment charge would be recorded to reduce the intangible asset to its fair value.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk

 

The Company is a worldwide manufacturer, marketer and distributor of fragrance and fragrance related products, and sells its products to department stores, perfumeries, specialty retailers, mass-market retailers, supermarkets and domestic and international wholesalers and distributors. The Company grants credit to all qualified customers and does not believe it is exposed significantly to any undue concentration of credit risk.

 

No one customer represented 10% or more of net sales in 2014, 2013 or 2012.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company sells its products to department stores, perfumeries, specialty retailers, mass-market retailers, supermarkets and domestic and international wholesalers and distributors. Sales of such products by our domestic subsidiaries are denominated in U.S. dollars and sales of such products by our foreign subsidiaries are primarily denominated in either euro or U.S. dollars. The Company recognizes revenues when merchandise is shipped and the risk of loss passes to the customer. Net sales are comprised of gross revenues less returns, trade discounts and allowances. The Company does not bill its customers’ freight and handling charges. All shipping and handling costs, which aggregated $5.2 million, $6.1 million and $8.4 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of income.

 

F-10
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Sales Returns

 

Generally, the Company does not permit customers to return their unsold products. However, for U.S. based customers, we allow returns if properly requested, authorized and approved. The Company regularly reviews and revises, as deemed necessary, its estimate of reserves for future sales returns based primarily upon historic trends and relevant current data including information provided by retailers regarding their inventory levels. In addition, as necessary, specific accruals may be established for significant future known or anticipated events. The types of known or anticipated events that we consider include, but are not limited to, the financial condition of our customers, store closings by retailers, changes in the retail environment and our decision to continue to support new and existing products. The Company records estimated reserves for sales returns as a reduction of sales, cost of sales and accounts receivable. Returned products are recorded as inventories and are valued based upon estimated realizable value. The physical condition and marketability of returned products are the major factors we consider in estimating realizable value. Actual returns, as well as estimated realizable values of returned products, may differ significantly, either favorably or unfavorably, from our estimates, if factors such as economic conditions, inventory levels or competitive conditions differ from our expectations.

 

Payments to Customers

 

The Company records revenues generated from purchase with purchase and gift with purchase promotions as sales and the costs of its purchase with purchase and gift with purchase promotions as cost of sales. Certain other incentive arrangements require the payment of a fee to customers based on their attainment of pre-established sales levels. These fees have been recorded as a reduction of net sales.

 

Advertising and Promotion

 

Advertising and promotional costs are expensed as incurred and recorded as a component of cost of goods sold (in the case of free goods given to customers) or selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising and promotional costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses were $86.7 million, $94.0 million and $132.7 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Costs relating to purchase with purchase and gift with purchase promotions that are reflected in cost of sales aggregated $24.4 million, $25.7 million and $46.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Accrued expenses include approximately $16.5 million and $22.4 million in advertising liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Package Development Costs

 

Package development costs associated with new products and redesigns of existing product packaging are expensed as incurred.

 

Operating Leases

 

The Company recognizes rent expense from operating leases with various step rent provisions, rent concessions and escalation clauses on a straight-line basis over the applicable lease term. The Company considers lease renewals in the useful life of its leasehold improvements when such renewals are reasonably assured. In the event the Company receives capital improvement funding from its landlord, these amounts are recorded as deferred liabilities and amortized over the remaining lease term as a reduction of rent expense.

 

License Agreements

 

The Company’s license agreements provide the Company with worldwide rights to manufacture, market and sell fragrance and fragrance related products using the licensors’ trademarks. The licenses typically have an initial term of approximately 5 years to 15 years, and are potentially renewable subject to the Company’s compliance with the license agreement provisions. The remaining terms, including the potential renewal periods, range from approximately 1 year to 14 years.  Under each license, the Company is required to pay royalties in the range of 5% to 10% to the licensor, at least annually, based on net sales to third parties.

 

F-11
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

In certain cases, the Company may pay an entry fee to acquire, or enter into, a license where the licensor or another licensee was operating a pre-existing fragrance business.  In those cases, the entry fee is capitalized as an intangible asset and amortized over its useful life.

 

Most license agreements require minimum royalty payments, incremental royalties based on net sales levels and minimum spending on advertising and promotional activities.  Royalty expenses are accrued in the period in which net sales are recognized while advertising and promotional expenses are accrued at the time these costs are incurred.

 

In addition, the Company is exposed to certain concentration risk. Substantially all of our prestige fragrance brands are licensed from unaffiliated third parties, and our business is dependent upon the continuation and renewal of such licenses.

 

Loss Contingency

 

The Company has accrued a loss contingency based on best estimates relating to a dispute with a former licensor. It is possible that, when the loss contingency is resolved, actual costs could exceed amounts in reserve. However, the potential impact of such exposure, if any, is deemed to be immaterial to the overall financial statements.

 

Income Taxes

 

The Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in its financial statements or tax returns. The net deferred tax assets assume sufficient future earnings for their realization, as well as the continued application of currently anticipated tax rates. Included in net deferred tax assets is a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, where management believes it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized in the relevant jurisdiction. If the Company determines that a deferred tax asset will not be realizable, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset will result in a reduction of net earnings at that time.

 

Issuance of Common Stock by Consolidated Subsidiary

 

The difference between the Company’s share of the proceeds received by the subsidiary and the carrying amount of the portion of the Company’s investment deemed sold, is reflected as an equity adjustment in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

Treasury Stock

 

The Board of Directors may authorize share repurchases of the Company’s common stock (Share Repurchase Authorizations). Share repurchases under Share Repurchase Authorizations may be made through open market transactions, negotiated purchase or otherwise, at times and in such amounts within the parameters authorized by the Board. Shares repurchased under Share Repurchase Authorizations are held in treasury for general corporate purposes, including issuances under various employee stock option plans. Treasury shares are accounted for under the cost method and reported as a reduction of equity. Share Repurchase Authorizations may be suspended, limited or terminated at any time without notice.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued an Accounting Standards Update which supersedes the most current revenue recognition requirements. The new revenue recognition standard requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration which the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. This guidance is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption not permitted. We are currently evaluating the standard to determine the impact of its adoption on our consolidated financial statements.

 

F-12
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

In July 2013, new accounting guidance was issued regarding financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carry-forward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit exists. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

There are no other recent accounting pronouncements issued but not yet adopted that would have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

 

(2)Termination of Burberry License

 

Burberry exercised its option to buy-out the license rights effective December 31, 2012. In October 2012, the Company and Burberry entered into a transition agreement that provided for certain license rights and obligations to continue through March 31, 2013. The Company continued to operate certain aspects of the business for the brand including product development, testing, and distribution. The transition agreement provided for non-exclusivity for manufacturing, a cap on sales of Burberry products, a reduced advertising requirement and no minimum royalty amounts.

 

The Company had determined that the transaction was substantially completed as of December 31, 2012. The following table sets forth a summary of the gain on termination of license which is included in income from operations on the accompanying statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012:

 

Exit payment (received December 21, 2012)  $239,075 
      
Expenses of termination:     
Inventory reserves   10,037 
Wages including $13.8 million in Interparfums SA profit sharing requirements   14,391 
Write-off of intangible assets   7,675 
Writedown of fixed assets   3,483 
Write-off of unused modeling rights   1,226 
Legal, professional and other agreed settlements   3,425 
      
    40,237 
      
Gain on termination of license  $198,838 

 

(3)Recent Agreements

 

Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister

 

In December 2014, the Company entered into a 7-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute new perfumes and fragrance related products under the Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister brand names. The Company will distribute these fragrances internationally in specialty retailers, high-end department stores and duty free shops, and in the U.S., in duty free shops and potentially in Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister retail stores. The agreement is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. New men’s and women’s scents are planned for both Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister for 2016.

 

F-13
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Oscar de la Renta

 

In October 2013, the Company entered into a 12-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under the Oscar de la Renta brand. The agreement closed on December 2, 2013 and is subject to certain minimum advertising expenditures as is customary in our industry. The Company purchased certain inventories and paid an up-front entry fee of $5.0 million. Upon closing, the Company took over distribution of fragrances within the brand’s existing perfume portfolio and is launching its first fragrance under the Oscar de la Renta brand in 2015.

 

Agent Provocateur

 

In July 2013, the Company entered into a 10.5-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under London-based luxury lingerie brand, Agent Provocateur. The agreement commenced on August 1, 2013 and is subject to certain minimum advertising expenditures as is customary in our industry. The Company took over distribution of selected fragrances within the brand’s existing perfume portfolio and launched its first fragrances under the Agent Provocateur brand in 2014.

 

Shanghai Tang

 

In July 2013, the Company created a wholly-owned Hong Kong subsidiary, Inter Parfums USA Hong Kong Limited, which entered into a 12-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and related products under China’s leading luxury brand, Shanghai Tang. The agreement commenced on July 1, 2013 and is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. The Company is in the process of launching its initial fragrance collection under the Shanghai Tang brand.

 

Dunhill

 

In December 2012, we entered into a 10-year exclusive worldwide license to create, produce and distribute perfumes and fragrance-related products under the Alfred Dunhill Limited (“Dunhill”) brand. Our rights under the agreement commenced on April 3, 2013 when we took over production and distribution of the existing Dunhill fragrance collections. The agreement is subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. The Company paid an upfront entry fee of $0.9 million. The Company is launching a new men’s scent for Dunhill in 2015.

 

Karl Lagerfeld

 

In October 2012, we entered into a 20-year exclusive worldwide license agreement to create, produce and distribute perfumes under the Karl Lagerfeld brand. Our rights under such license agreement are subject to certain minimum sales, advertising expenditures and royalty payments as are customary in our industry. In connection with our entry into this license, the Company paid a license entry fee to the licensor of €9.6 million, (approximately $12.5 million). In addition, the Company has made an advance royalty payment to the licensor of €9.6 million, (approximately $12.5 million). This advance royalty payment is to be credited against future royalty payments as follows: every year in which the royalties due are higher than €0.5 million, the amount of royalties exceeding €0.5 million will be credited up to €0.5 million in each such year. The advance royalty has been discounted to its net present value which is included in other assets on the accompanying balance sheet and the resulting discount of approximately $4.4 million has been added to intangible assets and will be amortized together with the license entry fee, over the initial term of the license.

 

F-14
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

(4)Inventories

 

   December 31, 
   2014   2013 
Raw materials and component parts  $36,383   $47,800 
Finished goods   65,943    69,547 
   $102,326   $117,347 

 

(5)Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The following tables present our financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value.

 

      Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2014 
       Quoted Prices in   Significant Other   Significant 
       Active Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
       Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   Total   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Assets:                
Short-term investments  $190,152   $   $190,152   $ 
                     
Liabilities:                    
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts not accounted for using hedge accounting  $355   $   $355   $ 

 

      Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2013 
       Quoted Prices in   Significant Other   Significant 
       Active Markets for   Observable   Unobservable 
       Identical Assets   Inputs   Inputs 
   Total   (Level 1)   (Level 2)   (Level 3) 
Assets:                    
Short-term investments  $181,677   $   $181,677   $ 
                     
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts not accounted for using hedge accounting   157        157     
                     
   $181,834   $   $181,834   $ 

 

The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents including money market funds, short-term investments, accounts receivable, other receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates fair value due to the short terms to maturity of these instruments. The carrying amount of loans payable approximates fair value as the interest rates on the Company’s indebtedness approximate current market rates.

 

Foreign currency forward exchange contracts are valued based on quotations from financial institutions.

 

F-15
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

(6)Derivative Financial Instruments

 

The Company enters into foreign currency forward exchange contracts to hedge exposure related to receivables denominated in a foreign currency and occasionally to manage risks related to future sales expected to be denominated in a foreign currency. The Company did not enter into any cash flow hedges during the three-year period ended December 31, 2014. Gains and losses in derivatives not designated as hedges are included in (gain) loss on foreign currency on the accompanying income statement and were immaterial in each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014.

 

All derivative instruments are reported as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet measured at fair value. The valuation of foreign currency forward exchange contracts not accounted for using hedge accounting in 2014 resulted in a liability that is included in accrued expenses and in 2013 resulted in an asset that is included in other current assets on the accompanying balance sheets. Generally, increases or decreases in the fair value of derivative instruments will be recognized as gains or losses in earnings in the period of change. If the derivative instrument is designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge, the changes in fair value of the derivative instrument will be recorded as a separate component of shareholders’ equity.

 

At December 31, 2014, the Company had foreign currency contracts in the form of forward exchange contracts in the amount of approximately U.S. $14.8 million, GB £2.6 million and JPY ¥75.0 million, which all have maturities of less than one year.

 

(7)Equipment and Leasehold Improvements

 

   December 31, 
   2014   2013 
Equipment  $26,006   $25,597 
Leasehold improvements   1,581    2,952 
    27,587    28,549 
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization   18,400    18,105 
   $9,187   $10,444 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense was $3.6 million, $4.9 million and $8.6 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

F-16
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

(8)Trademarks, Licenses and Other Intangible Assets

 

2014  Gross   Accumulated   Net Book 
   Amount   Amortization   Value 
Trademarks (indefinite lives)  $4,252   $   $4,252 
Trademarks (finite lives)   46,889    53    46,836 
Licenses (finite lives)   72,171    26,976    45,195 
Other intangible assets (finite lives)   11,572    9,324    2,248 
Subtotal   130,632    36,353    94,279 
Total  $134,884   $36,353   $98,531 

 

2013  Gross   Accumulated   Net Book 
   Amount   Amortization   Value 
Trademarks (indefinite lives)  $4,257   $   $4,257 
Trademarks (finite lives)   53,319    102    53,217 
Licenses (finite lives)   80,842    24,747    56,095 
Other intangible assets (finite lives)   11,964    9,290    2,674 
Subtotal   146,125    34,139    111,986 
Total  $150,382   $34,139   $116,243 

 

Amortization expense was $6.6 million, $6.2 million and $7.0 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Amortization expense is expected to approximate $6.2 million in 2015 and 2016, and $5.4 million in 2017, 2018 and 2019. The weighted average amortization period for trademarks, licenses and other intangible assets with finite lives are 18 years, 14 years and 2 years, respectively, and 15 years in the aggregate.

 

There were no impairment charges for trademarks with indefinite useful lives in 2014, 2013 and 2012. The fair values used in our evaluations are estimated based upon discounted future cash flow projections using a weighted average cost of capital of 6.7%. The cash flow projections are based upon a number of assumptions, including, future sales levels and future cost of goods and operating expense levels, as well as economic conditions, changes to our business model or changes in consumer acceptance of our products which are more subjective in nature. The Company believes that the assumptions the Company has made in projecting future cash flows for the evaluations described above are reasonable and currently no impairment indicators exist for our indefinite-lived assets. However, if future actual results do not meet our expectations, the Company may be required to record an impairment charge, the amount of which could be material to our results of operations.

 

The cost of trademarks, licenses and other intangible assets with finite lives is being amortized by the straight-line method over the term of the respective license or the intangible assets estimated useful life which range from three to twenty years. If the residual value of a finite life intangible asset exceeds its carrying value, then the asset is not amortized. The Company reviews intangible assets with finite lives for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

 

F-17
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Trademarks (finite lives) primarily represent Lanvin brand names and trademarks and in connection with their purchase, Lanvin was granted the right to repurchase the brand names and trademarks in 2025 for the greater of 70 million (approximately $85 million) or one times the average of the annual sales for the years ending December 31, 2023 and 2024 (residual value). Because the residual value of the intangible asset exceeds its carrying value, the asset is not amortized.

 

(9)Loans Payable – Banks

 

Loans payable – banks consist of the following:

 

The Company and its domestic subsidiaries have available a $20 million unsecured revolving line of credit due on demand, which bears interest at the prime rate minus 0.5% (the prime rate was 3.25% as of December 31, 2014). The line of credit which has a maturity date of May 1, 2015 is expected to be renewed on an annual basis. Borrowings outstanding pursuant to this line of credit were zero as of December 31, 2014 and $5.8 million as of December 31, 2013.

 

The Company’s foreign subsidiaries have available credit lines, including several bank overdraft facilities totaling approximately $30 million. These credit lines bear interest at EURIBOR plus between 0.5% and 0.8% (EURIBOR was 0.2% at December 31, 2014). Outstanding amounts were $0.3 million as of both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013.

 

The weighted average interest rate on short-term borrowings was 0.8% and 2.8% as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

(10)Commitments

 

Leases

 

The Company leases its office and warehouse facilities under operating leases which are subject to various step rent provisions, rent concessions and escalation clauses expiring at various dates through 2023. Escalation clauses are not material and have been excluded from minimum future annual rental payments. Rental expense, which is calculated on a straight-line basis, amounted to $10.1 million, $10.8 million and $11.8 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Minimum future annual rental payments are as follows:

 

2015  $5,306 
2016   5,343 
2017   5,067 
2018   4,663 
2019   4,221 
Thereafter   10,301 
      
   $34,901 

 

F-18
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

License Agreements

 

The Company is party to a number of license and other agreements for the use of trademarks and rights in connection with the manufacture and sale of its products expiring at various dates through 2032. In connection with certain of these license agreements, the Company is subject to minimum annual advertising commitments, minimum annual royalties and other commitments as follows:

 

2015  $102,752 
2016   103,899 
2017   106,282 
2018   110,639 
2019   106,669 
Thereafter   454,068 
      
   $984,309 

 

Future advertising commitments are estimated based on planned future sales for the license terms that were in effect at December 31, 2014, without consideration for potential renewal periods. The above figures do not reflect the fact that our distributors share our advertising obligations. Royalty expense included in selling, general, and administrative expenses, aggregated $35.6 million, $40.5 million and $58.8 million, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and represented 7.1%, 7.2% and 9.0% of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

(11)Equity

 

Share-Based Payments:

 

The Company maintains a stock option program for key employees, executives and directors. The plans, all of which have been approved by shareholder vote, provide for the granting of both nonqualified and incentive options. Options granted under the plans typically have a six-year term and vest over a four to five-year period. The fair value of shares vested in 2014 and 2013 aggregated $0.7 million and $0.5 million, respectively. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. It is generally the Company’s policy to issue new shares upon exercise of stock options.

 

The following table sets forth information with respect to nonvested options for 2014:

 

   Number of Shares    Weighted Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Nonvested options – beginning of year   367,470   $6.68 
Nonvested options granted   

139,250

   $7.42 
Nonvested options vested or forfeited   (121,215)  $6.06 
Nonvested options – end of year   

385,505

   $7.14 

 

Share-based payment expenses decreased income before income taxes by $0.9 million in 2014 and $0.8 million in 2013 and 2012, decreased net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. by $0.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012 and, reduced diluted earnings per share attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. by $0.01 in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

 

F-19
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity and related information for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
   Options   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Options   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Options   Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Shares under option - beginning of year   643,595   $19.58    716,235   $14.41    823,275   $13.20 
Options granted   

139,250

    27.93    136,350    34.84    128,850    19.25 
Options exercised   (136,640)   11.19    (204,240)   11.68    (226,160)   12.72 
Options cancelled   (6,710)   19.37    (4,750)   17.47    (9,730)   15.37 
Shares under option - end of year   

639,495

    

23.19

    643,595    19.58    716,235    14.41 

 

At December 31, 2014, options for 329,535 shares were available for future grant under the plans. The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding is $3.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options outstanding aggregated $2.6 million, which will be recognized over the next five years.

 

The weighted average fair values of options granted by Inter Parfums, Inc. during 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $7.42, $9.20 and $5.54 per share, respectively, on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model to calculate the fair value. The assumptions used in the Black-Scholes pricing model are set forth in the following table:

 

   Year Ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Weighted-average expected stock-price volatility   34%   37%   38%
Weighted-average expected option life   5.0 years    5.0 years    5.0 years 
Weighted-average risk-free interest rate   1.7%   1.7%   0.7%
Weighted-average dividend yield   1.8%   2.7%   1.7%

 

Expected volatility is estimated based on historic volatility of the Company’s common stock. The expected term of the option is estimated based on historic data. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant of the option and the dividend yield reflects the assumption that the dividend payout as authorized by the Board of Directors would maintain its current payout ratio as a percentage of earnings.

 

Proceeds, tax benefits and intrinsic value related to stock options exercised were as follows: 

 

   Year Ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Proceeds from stock options exercised  $1,529   $1,668   $1,305 
Tax benefits  $670   $700   $100 
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised  $

2,733

   $4,088   $1,359 

 

F-20
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

The following table summarizes additional stock option information as of December 31, 2014:

 

       Options outstanding    
   Number   weighted average remaining  Options 
Exercise prices  outstanding   contractual life  exercisable 
$12.14   57,440   1.00 years   57,440 
$13.45   250   0.08 years   250 
$15.59 - $15.62   100,370   2.98 years   55,810 
$17.07 - $17.94   4,375   1.71 years   2,000 
$19.03 - $19.33   203,410   3.13 years   111,410 
$21.76   4,000   3.09 years   1,000 
$22.20   4,000   4.09 years   800 
$27.80   133,750   6.00 years    
$29.36   2,000   4.69 years    
$32.12   3,500   4.09 years    
$35.75   126,400   5.00 years   25,280 
Totals   639,495   3.89 years   253,990 

 

As of December 31, 2014, the weighted average exercise price of options exercisable was $18.43 and the weighted average remaining contractual life of options exercisable is 2.64 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable at December 31, 2014 is $2.5 million.

 

The Chief Executive Officer and the President each exercised 32,875, 28,500 and 60,000 outstanding stock options of the Company’s common stock in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The aggregate exercise prices of $0.6 million in 2014, $0.7 million in 2013 and $1.6 million in 2012 were paid by them tendering to the Company in 2014, 2013 and 2012, an aggregate of 19,656, 18,880 and 82,322 shares, respectively, of the Company’s common stock, previously owned by them, valued at fair market value on the dates of exercise. All shares issued pursuant to these option exercises were issued from treasury stock of the Company. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer tendered in 2014, 2013 and 2012 an additional 3,112, 2,573 and 4,710 shares, respectively, for payment of certain withholding taxes resulting from his option exercises.

 

Dividends

 

The quarterly dividend of $3.7 million ($0.12 per share) declared in December 2013 was paid in January 2014. Furthermore, in January 2015, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized an 8% increase in the annual dividend to $0.52 per share. The next quarterly dividend of $0.13 per share will be paid on April 15, 2015 to shareholders of record on March 31, 2015.

 

F-21
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

(12)Net Income Attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. Common Shareholders

 

Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. per common share (“basic EPS”) is computed by dividing net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. by the weighted average number of shares outstanding. Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. per share assuming dilution (“diluted EPS”), is computed using the weighted average number of shares outstanding, plus the incremental shares outstanding assuming the exercise of dilutive stock options and warrants using the treasury stock method.

 

The reconciliation between the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted EPS computations is as follows:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Numerator:               
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.  $29,436   $39,211   $131,136 
Effect of dilutive securities of consolidated subsidiary           (168)
Numerator for diluted earnings per share  $29,436   $39,211   $130,968 
Denominator:               
Weighted average shares   30,931,308    30,763,955    30,574,772 
Effect of dilutive securities:               
Stock options and warrants   129,018    189,927    140,912 
Denominator for diluted earnings per share   31,060,326    30,953,882    30,715,684 
                
Earnings per share:               
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. common shareholders:               
Basic  $0.95   $1.27   $4.29 
Diluted   0.95    1.27    4.26 

 

Not included in the above computations is the effect of anti-dilutive potential common shares, which consist of outstanding options to purchase 130,000, 32,000, and 230,000 shares of common stock for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

 

(13)Segments and Geographic Areas

 

The Company manufactures and distributes one product line, fragrances and fragrance related products. The Company manages its business in two segments, European based operations and United States based operations. The European assets are located, and operations are primarily conducted, in France. European operations primarily represent the sale of the prestige brand name fragrances, and United States operations represent the sale of prestige brand name and specialty retail fragrances. Information on the Company’s operations by segments is as follows:

 

F-22
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Net sales:               
United States  $105,270   $99,158   $83,106 
Europe   394,164    464,562    571,877 
Eliminations of intercompany sales   (173)   (141)   (866)
   $499,261   $563,579   $654,117 
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.:               
United States  $8,069   $6,806   $5,078 
Europe   21,367    32,392    126,045 
Eliminations       13    13 
   $29,436   $39,211   $131,136 
Depreciation and amortization expense:               
United States  $1,554   $1,216   $958 
Europe   8,612    9,894    14,596 
   $10,166   $11,110   $15,554 
Interest and dividend income:               
United States  $3   $16   $7 
Europe   3,885    4,424    1,126 
   $3,888   $4,440   $1,133 
Interest expense:               
United States  $73   $13   $38 
Europe   1,405    1,367    1,616 
   $1,478   $1,380   $1,654 
Income tax expense:               
United States  $4,643   $4,512   $3,804 
Europe   14,727    25,159    94,063 
Eliminations       9    8 
   $19,370   $29,680   $97,875 

 

   December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Total assets:               
United States  $78,740   $76,980   $64,278 
Europe   535,049    596,153    704,464 
Eliminations of investment in subsidiary   (9,283)   (9,075)   (8,822)
   $604,506   $664,058   $759,920 
Additions to long-lived assets:               
United States  $1,165   $7,629   $3,131 
Europe   3,059    5,155    26,060 
   $4,224   $12,784   $29,191 
Total long-lived assets:               
United States  $13,433   $13,823   $7,572 
Europe   94,285    112,864    118,712 
   $107,718   $126,687   $126,284 
Deferred tax assets:               
United States  $396   $341   $762 
Europe   6,452    6,916    12,361 
Eliminations   -    -    9 
   $6,848   $7,257   $13,132 

 

F-23
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

United States export sales were approximately $52.3 million, $50.4 million and $38.8 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Consolidated net sales to customers by region are as follows:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
North America  $134,600   $154,300   $175,400 
Europe   177,900    215,600    241,300 
Central and South America   49,200    42,400    53,000 
Middle East   40,300    43,300    62,100 
Asia   85,500    98,600    115,300 
Other   11,800    9,400    7,000 
                
   $499,300   $563,600   $654,100 

 

Consolidated net sales to customers in major countries are as follows:

 

   Year Ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
United States  $128,000   $150,000   $167,000 
United Kingdom  $37,000   $46,000   $48,000 
France  $50,000   $47,000   $46,000 

 

(14)Income Taxes

 

The Company or its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal, and various states and foreign jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, and local or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2011.

  

The Company follows the provisions of uncertain tax positions as addressed in FASB Accounting Standards Codification 740-10-65-1. The Company did not recognize any increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and has no uncertain tax position at December 31, 2014. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties as a component of the provision for income taxes. No interest or penalties were recognized during the periods presented and there is no accrual for interest and penalties at December 31, 2014.

 

The components of income before income taxes consist of the following:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
U.S. operations  $12,712   $11,340   $8,904 
Foreign operations   44,003    69,306    265,861 
                
   $56,715   $80,646   $274,765 

 

F-24
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

The provision for current and deferred income tax expense (benefit) consists of the following:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Current:               
Federal  $4,374   $3,638   $2,511 
State and local   323    454    558 
Foreign   15,229    20,744    102,717 
    19,926    24,836    105,786 
Deferred:               
Federal   (84)   370    703 
State and local   30    59    40 
Foreign   (502)   4,415    (8,654)
    (556)   4,844    (7,911)
Total income tax expense  $19,370   $29,680   $97,875 

 

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows:

 

   December 31, 
   2014   2013 
Deferred tax assets:          
Foreign net operating loss carry-forwards  $419   $707 
Inventory and accounts receivable   2,655    626 
Profit sharing   2,570    4,805 
Stock option compensation   545    526 
Effect of inventory profit elimination   1,757    1,710 
Other   (679)   (410)
Total gross deferred tax assets   7,267    7,964 
Valuation allowance   (419)   (707)
Net deferred tax assets   6,848    7,257 
Deferred tax liabilities (long-term):          
Trademarks and licenses   (2,154)   (2,555)
Other        
Total deferred tax liabilities   (2,154)   (2,555)
Net deferred tax assets  $4,694   $4,702 

 

Valuation allowances are provided for foreign net operating loss carry-forwards, as future profitable operations from certain foreign subsidiaries might not be sufficient to realize the full amount of net operating loss carry-forwards. In 2014, as a result of a tax examination in a foreign jurisdiction, foreign net operating loss carry-forwards were reduced.

 

No other valuation allowances have been provided as management believes that it is more likely than not that the asset will be realized in the reduction of future taxable income.

 

The Company has not provided for U.S. deferred income taxes on $339 million of undistributed earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 since the Company intends to reinvest most of these earnings in its foreign operations indefinitely and the Company believes it has sufficient foreign tax credits available to offset any potential tax on amounts that have been and are planned to be repatriated.

 

F-25
 

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012

(In thousands except share and per share data)

 

Differences between the United States Federal statutory income tax rate and the effective income tax rate were as follows:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
Statutory rates   34.0%   34.0%   34.0%
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit   0.1    0.4    0.1 
Effect of foreign taxes greater than               
U.S. statutory rates   0.4    2.0    1.4 
Other   (0.3)   0.4    0.1 
Effective rates   34.2%   36.8%   35.6%

 

(15)Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consists of the following:

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
             
Net derivative instruments, beginning of year  $   $240   $224 
Transfer from OCI into earnings       (240)    
Gain on derivative instruments           16 
Net derivative instruments, end of year           240 
                
Cumulative translation adjustments, beginning of year   25,860    12,258    7,523 
Translation adjustments   (41,683)   13,602    4,735 
Cumulative translation adjustments, end of year   (15,823)   25,860    12,258 
                
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)  $(15,823)  $25,860   $12,498 

 

(16)Net Income Attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. and Transfers from the Noncontrolling Interest

 

   Year ended December 31, 
   2014   2013   2012 
             
Net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc.  $29,436   $39,211   $131,136 
Increase (decrease) in Inter Parfums, Inc.'s additional paid-in capital for subsidiary share transactions   (335)   (173)   737 
Change from net income attributable to Inter Parfums, Inc. and transfers from noncontrolling interest  $29,101   $39,038   $131,873 

 

F-26
 

 

Schedule II

 

INTER PARFUMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

(In thousands)

 

Column A  Column B   Column C   Column D   Column E 
       Additions         
       (1)   (2)         
           Charged to         
   Balance at   Charged to   other         
   beginning of   costs and   accounts –   Deductions –   Balance at 
Description  period   expenses   describe   describe   end of period 
Allowance for doubtful accounts:                         
Year ended December 31, 2014  $2,533    412    (233)(d)   1,103(a)   1,609 
Year ended December 31, 2013  $6,074    574    123(d)   4,238(a)   2,533 
Year ended December 31, 2012  $5,320    914    120(d)   280(a)   6,074 
                          
Sales return accrual:                         
Year ended December 31, 2014  $3,843    5,258    -    3,792(b)   5,309 
Year ended December 31, 2013  $4,526    3,751    -    4,434(b)   3,843 
Year ended December 31, 2012  $4,172    4,249    -    3,895(b)   4,526 
                          
Inventory Reserve:                         
Year ended December 31, 2014  $6,791    5,077    (644)(d)   5,254(c)   5,970 
Year ended December 31, 2013  $19,923    6,794    323(d)   20,249(c)   6,791 
Year ended December 31, 2012  $7,460    17,957    449(d)   5,943(c)   19,923 

 

(a)Write-off of bad debts.
(b)Write-off of sales returns.
(c)Disposal of inventory
(d)Foreign currency translation adjustment

 

See accompanying reports of independent registered public accounting firm

 

F-27
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15 (d) 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.

 

  Inter Parfums, Inc.
   
  By:   /s/ Jean Madar
    Jean Madar, Chief Executive Officer
    Date: March 11, 2015

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ Jean Madar   Chairman of the Board of Directors   March 11, 2015
Jean Madar   and Chief Executive Officer    
         
/s/ Russell Greenberg   Chief Financial and Accounting   March 11, 2015
Russell Greenberg   Officer  and  Director    
         
/s/ Philippe Benacin   Director   March 10, 2015
Philippe Benacin        
         
/s/ Philippe Santi   Director   March 10, 2015
Philippe Santi        
         
/s/ François Heilbronn   Director   March 10, 2015
François Heilbronn        
         
/s/ Jean Levy   Director   March 10, 2015
Jean Levy        
         
  Director   March __, 2015
Robert Bensoussan-Torres        
         
/s/ Patrick Choël   Director   March 10, 2015
Patrick Choël        
         
/s/ Michel Dyens   Director   March 9, 2015
Michel Dyens        

 

1
 

 

Exhibit Index

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2010:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
3.1   Interparfums Singapore Pte. Ltd Memorandum and Articles of Association
     
3.2   Interparfums Luxury Brands, Inc. Certificate of Incorporation

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
10.143   Collaboration Agreement between Clarins U.S.A., Inc., and Interparfums Luxury Brands Inc. (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.143 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).
     
10.144   Contrat de Bail Commercial et GEMFI and Interparfums SA - French original - (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.144 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).
     
10.144.1   Commercial Lease Agreement between GEMFI and Interparfums SA - English translation- (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.144.1 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
4.31   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 31, 2010 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted

 

2
 

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
3.6   Organizational Document of Inter Parfums (Suisse) Sarl (French original)
     
3.6.1   Organizational Document of Inter Parfums (Suisse) Sarl (English translation)
     
4.32   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 30, 2011 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
4.26   Addendum [France] to 2004 Stock Option Plan
     
10.130   Agreement for Technical Assistance between Jeanne Lanvin, S.A and Interparfums SA dated 30 July 2007 - French Original (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.130 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).
     
10.130.1   Agreement for Technical Assistance between Jeanne Lanvin, S.A and Interparfums SA dated 30 July 2007 - English Translation (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.130.1 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).
     
10.131   Coexistence Agreement between Jeanne Lanvin, S.A and Interparfums SA dated 30 July 2007- French Original
     
10.131.1   Coexistence Agreement between Jeanne Lanvin, S.A and Interparfums SA dated 30 July 2007- English Translation
     
10.151   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 31, 2012 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted
     
10.152   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on January 31, 2013 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted
     
10.153   Seventh Modification of Lease dated February 7, 2013 for 15th Floor at 551 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
     

 

3
 

 

23.1   Consent of WeiserMazars LLP
     
31.1   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Executive Officer
     
31.2   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Financial Officer
     
32.1   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer
     
32.2   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are also incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2013:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
4.21   2004 Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan as amended
     
4.22   2004 Stock Option Plan as amended

 

The following documents heretofore filed with the Commission are incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
3.7   Memorandum and Articles of Association of Inter Parfums USA Hong Kong Limited
     
10.156   Consulting Agreement with Jean Madar Holding SAS
     
10.158   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 31, 2013 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted
     
23.1   Consent of WeiserMazars LLP
     
31.1   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Executive Officer
     
31.2   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Financial Officer
     
32.1   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer
     

 

4
 

 

32.2   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer
     
101   Interactive data files

  

The following document heretofore filed with the Commission is also incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2014:

 

Exhibit No.   Description
     
10.160   Consulting Agreement with Philippe Benacin Holding SAS

 

5
 

 

The following document, which was filed more than 5 years ago as an exhibit to Company's Quarterly Report for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009, is filed again with this report:

 

Exhibit

No.

 

Description

  Page
Number
         
10.138   Licence Agreement between J Choo Limited and Interparfums SA signed on September 29, 2009 (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.138 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).   299

 

The following documents, which were filed more than 5 years ago as exhibits to Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, are filed again with this report:

 

Exhibit

No.

 

Description 

  Page
Number
         
3.1.1   Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated September 3, 1987   130
         
3.1.2   Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated July 31, 1992   134
         
3.1.3   Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated July 9, 1993   139
         
3.1.4   Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, dated July 13, 1999   141
         
3.1.5   Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, dated July 12, 2000   142
         
3.1.6   Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated August 6, 2004   146
         
3.2   Amended and Restated By-laws   147
         
3.3   Articles of Incorporation of Inter Parfums Holdings, S.A.   160
         
3.3.1   Articles of Incorporation of Inter Parfums Holdings, S.A. (English translation)   176
         
3.4   Articles of Incorporation of Interparfums SA   188
         
3.4.1   Articles of Incorporation of Interparfums SA (English translation)   204
         
4.30   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 31, 2009 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted   218
         

 

6
 

 

10.25   Employment Agreement between the Company and Philippe Benacin dated July 29, 1991   228
        236
10.26   Lease for portion of 15th Floor, 551 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York    
         
10.61   Lease for 60 Stults Road, South Brunswick, NJ between Forsgate Industrial Complex, a limited partnership, and Jean Philippe Fragrances, Inc. dated July 10, 1995   271
         
10.139   License Agreement between Montblanc-Simplo Gmbh and Interparfums SA (Certain confidential information in this Exhibit 10.139 was omitted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment by Inter Parfums, Inc.).    515

 

  

The following documents are filed with this report:

 

Exhibit

No.

 

Description

 

Page

Number

         
10.61.1    Third Amendment to Lease for 60 Stults Road, South Brunswick, NJ   221
         
10.161   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on December 31, 2014 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted   567
         
10.162   Form of Option Agreement for Options Granted to Executive Officers on January 28, 2015 with Schedule of Option Holders and Options Granted   570
         
21   List of Subsidiaries   573
         
23   Consent of WeiserMazars LLP   574
         
31.1   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Executive Officer   575
         
31.2   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14 of Chief Financial Officer   577
         
32.1   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer   579
         
32.2   Certification Required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act by Chief Executive Officer   580
         
101   Interactive data files    

 

7