10-K

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

(Mark One)
þ	ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
	For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017
or
o	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
	For the transition period from          to

Commission file number: 0-10546

LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

Delaware	36-2229304
(State or other jurisdiction of	(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)	Identification No.)

8770 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 900, Chicago, Illinois 60631

(Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(773) 304-5050

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

Title of Each Class	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, $1.00 par value	The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (NASDAQ Global Select Market)

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

None

(Title of class)

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

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

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

Indicate by check mark 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  þ      No  o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   o

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

Large accelerated filer o	Accelerated filer þ
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting Company  o
	Emerging Growth Company  o

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

Yes  o  No  þ

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

Yes  o  No  þ

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s voting stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2017 (based upon the per share closing price of $21.15) was

approximately $104,875,000.

As of January 31, 2018, 8,888,028 shares of Common Stock were outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following documents are incorporated into this Form 10-K by reference:

Part III incorporates information by reference to the registrant’s definitive proxy statement, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the close of the fiscal year.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page #
PART I
Item 1.	Business	3
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	8
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	12
Item 2.	Properties	12
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	13
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	13
PART II
Item 5.	Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	14
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	15
Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	16
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	25
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	26
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	54
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	54
Item 9B.	Other Information	58
PART III
Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	58
Item 11.	Executive Compensation	58
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	59
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	59
Item 14.	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	59
PART IV
Item 15.	Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules	60
	Signatures	63

“Safe Harbor” Statement under the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties. The terms “may,” “should,” “could,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continues,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “objective,” “plan,” “potential,” “project” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. These statements are based on management’s current expectations, intentions or beliefs and are subject to a number of factors, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences or that might otherwise impact the business include the risk factors set forth in Item 1A of this Form 10-K.

The Company undertakes no obligation to update any such factors, assumptions and uncertainties or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Any references to our website in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are not and should not be considered an incorporation of information including on our website into this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.

Lawson Products, Inc. (“Lawson”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) was incorporated in Illinois in 1952, and reincorporated in Delaware in 1982. Lawson serves the industrial, commercial, institutional and government Maintenance, Repair and Operations ("MRO") market.

Vision

Our vision is to be our customers' first choice for maintenance, repair and operational solutions that improve their operating performance. We plan to achieve our vision by working closely with our customers to maintain and enhance their operations by providing them with quality products, superior service and innovative solutions.

Industry and Competition

The MRO industrial distribution industry is comprised of companies that buy and stock products in bulk and supply these products to customers on an as needed basis. The customer benefits from our knowledge and the convenience of ordering smaller quantities maintained by MRO suppliers. We estimate that total annual revenue generated by the North American MRO marketplace exceeds $130 billion.

There is a significant amount of competitive fragmentation by geography and product within the industry. We encounter competition from several national distributors and manufacturers and a large number of regional and local distributors. Some competitors have greater financial and personnel resources, handle more extensive lines of merchandise, operate larger facilities and price some merchandise more competitively than we do.

Segments

With the acquisition of The Bolt Supply House Ltd. ("Bolt") in 2017, we now operate in two reportable segments, the Lawson operating segment and the Bolt segment.

Lawson Segment

Through the Lawson segment, we deliver quality products to our customers and offer them extensive product knowledge, product application expertise and Vendor Managed Inventory ("VMI") services. Our broad geographic sales coverage allows us to serve large multi-location customers. We compete for business primarily by offering a value-added service approach in which our highly trained sales representatives manage the product inventory for our customers. The VMI model makes it less likely that our customers will unintentionally run out of a product while optimizing their inventory levels.

Sales orders are primarily generated from our sales representatives; however, customers can also order directly from our website or through our customer service team via fax or phone. We ship products to customers in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. We normally ship to our customers within one day of order placement.

Our MRO distribution process normally entails the purchase of product from suppliers in bulk for delivery to our packaging and distribution facility in McCook, Illinois (“McCook Facility”) for possible repackaging, labeling or cross-docking. Product is then either stocked at the McCook Facility or delivered to one of our strategically located distribution centers. As orders are received, product is picked, packed and shipped to our customers. Many factors affect the efficiency of this process including the physical design of the distribution centers, routing logistics, the number of times the product needs to be handled, transportation costs and the flexibility to meet the specific requirements of our customers.

Bolt Segment

The Bolt business primarily delivers products to its customers through 13 branches located in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Canada. Bolt generates sales from walk up business at its retail branch locations and through its sales team, phone, fax or the Internet. Bolt inventory is delivered to the packaging and distribution facility in Calgary, Alberta, and then distributed to each branch location. Sales generated via its sales team or through phone, fax or Internet orders are either shipped directly from the distribution center or one of the branch locations to the customer. The majority of Bolt's customers are located in the

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geographic vicinity of the retail branches. Bolt generally does not offer VMI service to its customers. In the nearly three months that Bolt was owned by Lawson, Bolt generated 2.6% of the Company's annual 2017 sales. Bolt product offerings are listed on the Bolt website and are available in each of the retail branch locations.

Purchased inventory is delivered to the packaging and distribution center in Calgary, Alberta. Based on forecasted demand, product is picked, packed and shipped to the branch locations where the product is available for sale to customers.

Customers

During 2017, the Lawson segment sold products to over 73,000 identified customers and the Bolt segment sold products to over 7,000 identified customers in addition to the walk up customers at its 13 branch locations. Our largest customer accounted for approximately four percent of net sales. In 2017, approximately 87% of our net sales were generated in the United States and approximately 13% in Canada. The percentage of sales in Canada will likely be higher in 2018 due to our acquisition of Bolt in October 2017. Our customers operate in a variety of industries including automotive repair, commercial vehicle maintenance, government, manufacturing, food processing, distribution, construction, oil and gas, mining, wholesale, service and others. Although seasonality is not significant in our business, due to fewer selling days during the holiday season, net sales in the fourth quarter are historically slightly lower than the first three quarters of the year.

Our customers include a wide range of purchasers of industrial supply products from small repair shops to large national and governmental accounts. Historically, we have been very effective selling to and servicing small and medium sized customer locations that value our service approach.

Products

Our product offerings are listed on our websites and in catalogs distributed to our customers. Sales percentages by broad product categories of our product mix in 2017 were as follows:

Product Category	Percentage
Fastening systems	21%
Fluid power	15%
Specialty chemicals	14%
Cutting tools and abrasives	14%
Electrical	11%
Aftermarket automotive supplies	9%
Safety	4%
Welding and metal repair	2%
Other	10%
	100%

The Lawson segment offers over 210,000 different core products for sale of which over 66,000 products are maintained in our distribution centers. We strive to carry sufficient inventory to ensure product availability and rapid processing of customer orders. Accurate forecasting of customer demand is essential to establish the proper level of inventory for each product. Inventory levels need to be sufficient to meet customer demand while avoiding the costs of stocking excess items.

During 2017, our Lawson segment purchased products from approximately 2,300 suppliers and no single supplier accounted for more than four percent of our purchases. The loss of one of our core suppliers could affect our operations by hindering our ability to provide full service to our customers.

Our quality control department tests our product offerings to ensure they meet our customers' specifications. We recommend solutions to help customers maximize product performance and avoid costly product failures. Our engineering department provides technical support for our products and offers on-site problem solutions. They also develop and present product safety and technical training seminars tailored to meet our customers' needs. Safety Data Sheets are maintained electronically and are available to our customers on our website.

Bolt offers over 35,000 different core products for sale of which over 19,000 products are maintained in the Calgary distribution center. The majority of inventory is kept in the Calgary distribution center, with each retail branch maintaining appropriate inventory levels for their business needs.

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Employees

Our organization supports a culture of continuous improvement and emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of our customers. We require our employees to act with integrity in every aspect of our business while encouraging them to be results driven, team oriented and progressive.

On December 31, 2017, our combined workforce included approximately 1,720 individuals, comprised of approximately 1,230 in sales and marketing, approximately 380 in operation and distribution and approximately 110 in management and administration. Approximately 1,600 of the 1,720 individuals are within the Lawson segment and the remaining are within Bolt. Approximately 10% of the workforce is covered by three collective bargaining agreements. We believe that our relations with our employees and their collective bargaining organizations are good.

Sales Team

On December 31, 2017, the Lawson sales and marketing team consisted of approximately 1,230 individuals focused on servicing existing customers, identifying new customers, providing customer service support and providing on-site customer service. Of the total sales team, 983 are sales representatives who are primarily organized into geographical regions. The performance of each region is the responsibility of a Regional Sales Director. Each region is further divided into geographically defined districts. The performance of each district is the responsibility of a District Sales Manager who reports to the Regional Sales Director. Our District Sales Managers work with the sales representatives to generate sales from new and existing customers. Lawson also has a team dedicated to the acquisition of larger national and mid-market accounts and a team dedicated to serving governmental accounts. The national accounts are comprised of multi-location customers with a national scope.

The Lawson sales team receives education in the best uses of products, enabling them to provide customized solutions to address customers' needs including technical expertise and on-site problem resolution. The VMI service Lawson offers consist of managing customers' inventory, ordering the right products in the optimal quantity and stocking the product for customers when the product is delivered. The sales team also periodically provides product presentations to customers that are designed to demonstrate how the products can improve their productivity. Additionally, Lawson sales representatives offer customized storage systems for improved organization and a more efficient work-flow.

The majority of Bolt sales are made from its 13 branch locations. Bolt has approximately 30 sales territory managers that serve companies and professional tradespeople throughout Western Canada. In 2017, Bolt began requiring members of the sales teams to be certified as Certified Sales Professionals for the Canadian Professional Sales Association. All newly-hired sales team members are required to receive and maintain the same certification.

Strategic Focus

In 2018, we intend to grow our sales organically and through acquisitions and further improve our operations to make Lawson our customers' first choice for products, services and solutions that improve their operating performance.

Our sales are impacted by the size of our sales team and its territorial coverage. Our plan to expand the sales force is designed to identify under served territories that offer the greatest potential growth opportunity, locate and recruit talented sales representatives, provide them with the proper training, and successfully integrate them into our organization.

To acquire the best new sales talent and prepare them for success, we have developed an extensive talent acquisition strategy. We use both internal and external resources to identify and recruit the best available sales talent. Our training program is intended to provide new sales representatives with the tools they need to maximize their sales potential. As we increase our sales coverage, we anticipate a short-term decrease in average sales per day per sales representative, as new representatives build up customer relationships in their territories. Our 2018 financial results may also be impacted by increased training and other costs related to the sales force expansion. However, we believe that these short-term investments will result in future opportunities as we leverage the positive impact of top-line growth against our operating costs which are fixed to a significant extent.

We are also focused on increasing the productivity of our sales representatives. We strive to empower our sales representatives with the training, technology and support they need to maximize their sales potential while providing our customers with superior service and making it easy for them to do business with us.

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In addition to organic growth, we will continue to actively pursue acquisition opportunities that are financially accretive to our organization. As with Bolt, Lawson will continue to explore growth opportunities in the MRO space that provide different channels to reach customers, increase sales and generate positive results.

In order to improve our operations, we utilize a Lean Six Sigma approach, which is a set of tools that allow a project team to analyze and improve selected business processes. The project teams work with the process owners to develop statistical measures to evaluate the effectiveness of the process, document the current components and process flow, examine the root cause and effect of current operations, design and implement new ways to improve performance and then measure the results for effectiveness. The Lean Six Sigma process is deeply ingrained in our culture as we have had well over 100 employees complete Lean Six Sigma training over the past three years and plan to continue this training program in the years to come.

We believe our emphasis on continuous improvement will lead to further reductions in error rates, increased processing speed, reduction in cycle times, standardization of procedures and elimination of waste. This will enable us to become a more efficient and effective organization which provides our customers with the best purchasing experience possible.

Available Information

We file or furnish annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and file or furnish amendments to those reports pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act and Section 16 reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The public can obtain copies of these materials by accessing the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov or by visiting the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington DC 20549. In addition, as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are filed with or furnished to the SEC, we make copies available to the public free of charge through our website at www.lawsonproducts.com or by calling (773) 304-5050. Information on our website is not incorporated by reference into this report. We also make available on our website our Code of Ethics, Corporate Governance Principles and the charters of the committees of our Board of Directors.

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Executive Officers of the Registrant

The executive officers of Lawson as of February 1, 2018 were as follows:

Name	Age	Year First Elected to Present Office	Position
Michael G. DeCata	60	2012	President and Chief Executive Officer
Neil E. Jenkins	68	2004	Executive Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel
Ronald J. Knutson	54	2014	Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Controller
Matthew J. Brown	54	2017	Senior Vice President, Sales
Shane T. McCarthy	49	2015	Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and Business Development

Biographical information for the past five years relating to each of our executive officers is set forth below.

Mr. DeCata was elected President and Chief Executive Officer in September 2012. Mr. DeCata previously served in a consulting capacity for several private equity firms, including Hamilton Robinson Capital Partners from 2009 until 2012. Mr. DeCata previously served on the Board of Directors of Crescent Electric Supply Company from 2008 to 2013.

Mr. Jenkins was elected Executive Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel in 2004.

Mr. Knutson was elected Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Controller in April 2014 and has served as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer since July 2012. Mr. Knutson joined the Company as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer effective November 2009.

Mr. Brown was elected Senior Vice President, Sales in March 2017 and served as Vice President of Field Sales since January 2016. Mr. Brown held several levels of sales leadership roles for the Company over the last 18 years with the most recent title of Senior Director of Sales from 2014 to 2016.

Mr. McCarthy was elected Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and Business Development in December 2015 and previously served as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain since June 2014. Mr. McCarthy served as Senior Vice President, Operations from July 2012 to June 2014 and previously served as Vice President of Distribution and Logistics from April 2008 to June 2012.  

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.

In addition to the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, the following factors should be considered in evaluating Lawson's business. Our operating results depend upon many factors and are subject to various risks and uncertainties. The material risks and uncertainties known to us and described below may negatively affect our business operations or affect our financial results. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations or affect our financial results.

Our results of operations may be adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy or in certain sectors of the economy.

Any decline or uncertainty in the strength of the economy may lead to a decrease in customer spending and may cause certain customers to cancel or delay placing orders. Some of our customers may file for bankruptcy protection, preventing us from collecting on accounts receivable and may result in our stocking excess inventory. Contractions in the credit markets may also cause some of our customers to experience difficulties in obtaining financing, leading to lower sales, delays in the collection of receivables and result in an increase in bad debt expense.

Adverse economic conditions could also affect our key suppliers and contractors. This could lead to us incurring additional expenses or result in delays in shipping products to our customers. Economic uncertainty can make it difficult for us to accurately predict future order activity and affect our ability to effectively manage inventory levels. There are no assurances that we would be able to establish alternative financing or obtain financing with terms similar to our present Loan Agreement.

Failure to adequately fund our operating and working capital needs through cash generated from operations and cash available through our Loan Agreements could negatively impact our ability to invest in the business and maintain our capital structure.

Our business requires investment in working capital and fixed assets. We fund these investments from cash generated from operations and funds available from our Loan Agreements. Failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or from our Loan Agreements could cause us to have insufficient funds to operate our business. Adequate funds may not be available when needed or may not be available on favorable terms.

Failure to meet the covenant requirements of our Loan Agreements could lead to higher financing costs, increased restrictions and reduce or eliminate our ability to borrow funds.

Our Loan Agreements contains financial and other restrictive covenants. These covenants could adversely affect us by limiting our financial and operating flexibility as well as our ability to plan for and react to market conditions and to meet our capital needs. Failure to meet these covenant requirements could lead to higher financing costs, increased restrictions, reduce or eliminate our ability to borrow funds, or accelerate the payment of our existing indebtedness. If we require more liquidity than is currently available to us under our Loan Agreements, we may need to raise additional funds through debt or equity offerings which may not be available when needed or may not be available on terms favorable to us. Should funding be insufficient at any time in the future, we may be unable to develop or enhance our products or services, take advantage of business opportunities or respond to competitive pressures, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The market price of our common stock may decline.

Our stock price could decrease if our financial performance is inadequate or does not meet investors' expectations, if there is deterioration in the overall market for equities, if large amounts of shares are sold in the market, if there is index trading, or if investors have concerns that our business, financial condition, results of operations and capital requirements are negatively impacted by an economic downturn.

A significant portion of our inventory may become obsolete.

Our business strategy requires us to carry a significant amount of inventory in order to meet rapid processing of customer orders. If our inventory forecasting and production planning processes result in inventory levels exceeding the levels demanded by customers or should our customers decrease their orders with us, our operating results could be adversely affected due to costs of carrying the inventory and additional inventory write-downs for excess and obsolete inventory.

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Work stoppages and other disruptions at transportation centers or shipping ports may adversely affect our ability to obtain inventory and make deliveries to our customers.

Our ability to rapidly process customer orders is an integral component of our overall business strategy. Interruptions at our company operated facilities or disruptions at a major transportation center or shipping port, due to events such as severe weather, labor interruptions, natural disasters, acts of terrorism or other events, could affect our ability to maintain core products in inventory, deliver products to our customers on a timely basis or adversely affect demand for our products, which may in turn adversely affect our results of operations.

Changes in our customers, product mix and pricing strategy could cause our gross margin percentage to decline in the future.

From time to time, we have experienced overall changes in the product mix demand of our customers. When customers or product mix changes, there can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain our historical gross profit margins. Changes in our customers, product mix, volume of orders, prices charged, additional freight costs or lower productivity levels, could cause our gross profit margin percentage to decline. Our gross margin percentage may also come under pressure in the future if we increase the percentage of national accounts in our customer base, as sales to these customers are generally at lower margins.

Changes in energy costs and the cost of raw materials used in our products could impact our cost of goods and distribution and occupancy expenses, which may result in lower operating margins.

Increases in the cost of raw materials used in our products (e.g., steel, brass) and increases in energy costs raise the production costs of our vendors. Those vendors typically look to pass the higher costs along to us through price increases. If we are unable to fully pass these increased prices and costs through to our customers or to modify our activities, the impact would have an adverse effect on our operating profit margins. Additionally, continued low oil prices may result in weaker demand from oil and gas customers in the future, resulting in lower net sales.

Disruptions of our information and communication systems could adversely affect the Company.

We depend on our information and communication systems to process orders, purchase and manage inventory, maintain cost-effective operations, sell and ship products, manage accounts receivable collections and serve our customers. Disruptions in the operation of information and communication systems can occur due to a variety of factors including power outages, hardware failure, programming faults and human error. Disruptions in the operation of our information and communication systems, whether over a short or an extended period of time or affecting one or multiple distribution centers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Cyber attacks or other information security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition, subject us to additional legal costs and damage our reputation in the marketplace.

We are increasingly dependent on digital technology to process and record financial and operating data and communicate with our employees and business partners. During the normal course of business we receive, retain and transmit certain confidential information that our customers provide to us to purchase products or services or otherwise communicate with us. 

Our technologies, systems, networks, and those of our business partners may become the target of cyber attacks or information security breaches that could result in the unauthorized release, misuse, loss or destruction of proprietary and other information, or other disruption of our business operations, subject us to additional legal costs and damage our reputation in the marketplace. Although to date we have not experienced any losses relating to cyber attacks, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer such losses in the future. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and fix any information security vulnerabilities.

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The inability to successfully recruit, integrate and retain productive sales representatives could adversely affect our operating results.

We have committed to a plan to increase the size of our sales force which we believe will lead to increased sales and improve our long-term financial results. A successful expansion in our sales force requires us to identify under served territories that offer the greatest potential growth opportunity, locate and recruit talented sales representatives, provide them with the proper training, and successfully integrate them into our organization. This expansion plan requires significant investment in capital and resources. The failure to identify the optimal sales territories, recruit and retain quality sales representatives and provide them with sufficient support could adversely affect our operating results. Additionally, we anticipate a short-term decrease in average sales per day per sales representative as new representatives build up customer relationships in their territories.

It is also critical to retain the experienced and productive sales representatives that have historically contributed to our success. Failure to retain a sufficient number of talented, experienced and productive sales representatives could adversely affect our financial and operating results.

Failure to retain talented employees, managers and executives could negatively impact our operating results.

Our success depends on our ability to attract, develop and retain talented employees, including executives and other key managers. The loss of certain key executives and managers or the failure to attract and develop talented employees could have a material adverse effect on our business.

The inability of management to successfully implement changes in operating processes, could lead to disruptions in our operations.

We are continually striving to improve operational efficiencies throughout our organization and to identify and initiate changes intended to improve our internal operations. The implementation of changes to our current operations involve a risk that the changes may not work as intended, may disrupt related processes, may not be properly applied or may not result in accomplishing the intended efficiencies. Failure to successfully manage the implementation of these changes could lead to disruptions in our operations.

The inability to successfully integrate acquisitions into our organization could adversely affect our operations and operating results.

One of our growth strategies is to actively pursue acquisition opportunities which fit our service oriented MRO business model. Failure to successfully identify the right opportunities and to successfully integrate their operations into our organization could adversely affect our operations and our operating results.

The Company is exposed to the risk of foreign currency changes.

Two of our subsidiaries are located and operate in Canada using the Canadian dollar as its functional currency. Operating results are translated into U.S. dollars when consolidated into our financial statements. Therefore, we are exposed to market risk relating to the change in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar that could adversely affect our financial position and operating results.

The Company operates in highly competitive markets.

The MRO marketplace is highly competitive. Our competitors include large and small companies with similar or greater market presence, name recognition, and financial, marketing, and other resources. We believe the competition will continue to challenge our business with their product selection, financial resources and services.

Changes that affect governmental and other tax-supported entities could negatively impact our sales and earnings.

A portion of our sales are derived from the United States military and other governmental and tax-supported entities. These entities are largely dependent upon government budgets and require adherence to certain laws and regulations. A decrease in the levels of defense and other governmental spending or the introduction of more stringent governmental regulations and oversight, could lead to reduced sales or an increase in compliance costs which would adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.

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A violation of federal, state or local environmental protection regulations could lead to significant penalties and fines or other remediation costs.

Our product offering includes a wide variety of industrial chemicals and other products which are subject to a multitude of federal, state and local regulations. These environmental protection laws change frequently and affect the composition, handling, transportation, storage and disposal of these products. Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to severe penalties and fines for each violation.

Additionally, a facility we own in Decatur, Alabama, was found to contain hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater as a result of historical operations prior to our ownership. We retained an environmental consulting firm to further investigate the contamination, including measurement and monitoring of the site. The Company has concluded that further remediation will most likely be required, and accordingly, has made an accrual for the estimated cost of this environmental matter. An agreement with Alabama’s voluntary cleanup program has not yet been reached regarding these remediation approaches and additional procedures may be required to remediate the situation that could negatively impact our operating results.

Our results of operations could be affected by changes in taxation.

Our results of operations could be affected by changes in tax rates, audits by taxing authorities or changes in laws, regulations and their interpretation. Changes in applicable tax laws and regulations could continue to affect our ability to realize the deferred tax assets on our balance sheet, which could affect our results of operations.

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ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

At December 31, 2017, we owned or leased the following facilities:

Location		Segment	Function	Approximate Square Footage	Own/Lease	Lease Expiration
United States
	Chicago, Illinois (1)	Lawson	Headquarters	86,300	Lease	March 2023
	McCook, Illinois	Lawson	Packaging/Distribution	306,800	Lease	June 2022
	Reno, Nevada	Lawson	Distribution	105,200	Lease	June 2024
	Suwanee, Georgia	Lawson	Distribution	91,200	Own
	Decatur, Alabama (2)	Lawson	Lease	88,200	Own
Canada
	Mississauga, Ontario	Lawson	Distribution	78,000	Own
	Calgary, Alberta (3)	Lawson/Bolt	Distribution	43,700	Lease	December 2021
	Calgary, Alberta (Foothills)	Bolt	Branch	11,200	Lease	April 2024
	Calgary, Alberta (South)	Bolt	Branch	10,300	Lease	November 2023
	Calgary, Alberta (North)	Bolt	Branch	6,900	Lease	January 2019
	Edmonton, Alberta (North)	Bolt	Branch	6,000	Lease	February 2022
	Edmonton, Alberta (South)	Bolt	Branch	5,600	Lease	September 2018
	Fort McMurray, Alberta	Bolt	Branch	7,500	Lease	March 2019
	Lethbridge, Alberta	Bolt	Branch	3,400	Own
	Medicine Hat, Alberta	Bolt	Branch	4,900	Own
	Prince Albert, Saskatchewan	Bolt	Branch	4,300	Lease	October 2020
	Red Deer, Alberta	Bolt	Branch	4,100	Lease	July 2020
	Regina, Saskatchewan	Bolt	Branch	4,800	Lease	December 2019
	Saskatoon, Saskatchewan	Bolt	Branch	10,800	Lease	May 2021
	Winnipeg, Manitoba	Bolt	Branch	5,800	Lease	September 2018

(1) We have sub-leased approximately 17,100 feet of the Chicago, Illinois headquarters through March 2023.

(2) In connection with the sale of a discontinued business, we have agreed to lease the Decatur property to the buyer through February, 2019.

(3) Lawson and Bolt manage separate distribution operations out of the same physical location.

While we believe that our facilities are adequate to meet our current needs, we will continue to assess the location and operation of our facilities to determine whether they meet the strategic needs of our business.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

The Company is involved in legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. It is the opinion of management that the resolution of any currently pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position , results of operations or cash flows. 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.

Not applicable

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.

Stock Price Data

The Company’s Common Stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol of “LAWS”. The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices as reported on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.

	2017				2016
	High		Low		High		Low
First Quarter	$	28.10	$	21.40	$	22.80	$	15.23
Second Quarter	24.00		18.70		22.50		16.42
Third Quarter	25.65		19.30		21.61		15.28
Fourth Quarter	26.44		22.80		25.80		16.69

On January 31, 2018, the closing sales price of our common stock was $23.75 and the number of stockholders of record was 331. We did not issue dividends in either 2017 or 2016 and the Company currently has no plans to issue dividends in the foreseeable future. The amount of dividends we can issue is restricted to $7.0 million annually under our Loan and Security Agreement ("Loan Agreement"). Information about our equity compensation plans may be found in Item 12 of this report which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Stock Price Performance Chart

Set forth below is a line graph comparing the yearly change in the cumulative total stockholder return of the Company’s common stock against the cumulative total return of the Russell Microcap Index and a peer group (the “Peer Group”) of the Company for the five prior years. The Company selected the Russell Microcap Index because Lawson is a component of the index and the market capitalization of the other member companies are similar to Lawson’s market capitalization. The Peer Group consists of W.W. Grainger, Inc., Fastenal Company, and MSC Industrial Direct. The Company believes that the Peer Group is representative of the markets it serves in terms of product sales and customers. The chart below represents the hypothetical return, including reinvestment of dividends, on $100 if it was invested on December 31, 2012 in the respective stocks or index fund.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and Notes thereto included in Item 8 in this Annual Report. The income statement data and balance sheet data are for, and as of the end of each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2017 and are derived from the audited Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company. The results of discontinued operations have been reclassified from continuing operations for all periods presented.

	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2017 (1)		2016			2015 (2)		2014 (3)			2013 (4)
Net sales	$	305,907	$	276,573		$	275,834	$	285,693		$	269,503
Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	29,688	$	(1,629	)	$	297	$	(6,061	)	$	(6,981	)
Income from discontinued operations	—		—			—		1,692			1,861
Net income (loss)	$	29,688	$	(1,629	)	$	297	$	(4,369	)	$	(5,120	)
Diluted income (loss) per share of common stock:
Continuing operations	$	3.25	$	(0.19	)	$	0.03	$	(0.70	)	$	(0.81	)
Discontinued operations	—		—			—		0.20			0.22
Net income (loss)	$	3.25	$	(0.19	)	$	0.03	$	(0.50	)	$	(0.59	)
Total assets	$	190,667	$	135,307		$	133,094	$	137,840		$	159,945
Noncurrent liabilities	$	37,200	$	34,737		$	35,487	$	37,257		$	39,083
Stockholders’ equity	$	93,490	$	61,133		$	61,264	$	61,855		$	65,912

Notes:

(1) The 2017 results from continuing operations include an income tax benefit of $19.6 million primarily as a result of releasing Deferred Tax Asset ("DTA") valuation reserves of $21.2 million at December 31, 2017. 2017 also includes a $5.4 million gain on the sale of Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center.

(2) The 2015 results from continuing operations include an expense of $0.9 million related to an increase in the estimated future remediation cost of an environmental matter involving land owned in Decatur, Alabama, that was part of a division that was previously sold.

(3) The 2014 results from continuing operations include a $3.0 million impairment charge related to the Reno, Nevada, distribution center and a charge of $0.3 million related to the initial estimate of remediation of the environmental matter at the Decatur, Alabama, facility.

(4) The 2013 results from continuing operations include a $2.9 million charge related to the sub-lease of a portion of the leased headquarters and a $0.4 million benefit from the resolution of an employment tax matter.

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IITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

Overview

We are a distributor of products and services to the industrial, commercial, institutional, and governmental maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO") marketplace. With the acquisition of Bolt in October 2017, we now operate in two reportable segments. The Lawson operating segment primarily distributes MRO products to its customers through a network of sales representatives throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Bolt operating segment primarily distributes its MRO products through a network of 13 branches located in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Canada.

The North American MRO industry is highly fragmented. We compete for business with several national distributors as well as a large number of regional and local distributors. The MRO business is influenced by the overall strength of the manufacturing sector of the U.S. economy. One measure used to evaluate the strength of the industrial products market is the PMI index published by the Institute for Supply Management. The PMI index is a composite index of economic activity in the United States manufacturing sector and is available at https://www.instituteforsupplymanagement.org. A measure of that index above 50 generally indicates expansion of the manufacturing sector while a measure below 50 generally represents contraction. The average monthly PMI was 57.6 for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 51.5 for the year ended December 31, 2016 indicating improvement in 2017 in the U.S. manufacturing economy compared to the prior year.

Our sales are also affected by the number and effectiveness of sales representatives and the amount of sales each representative can generate from providing services to our customers, which we measure as average sales per day per sales representative. We had an average of 987 sales representatives working for us in 2017 which was similar to the number we had in 2016.

Results of operations are examined in detail following a recap of our major activities in 2017.

2017 Activities

• Acquisitions - We acquired Bolt, a Canadian MRO distributer. Bolt is expected to generate over CAD $43 million (USD $33 million) of annual net sales through its network of 13 branch locations in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Canada.

• Streamlined supply chain - In 2017, primarily due to excess capacity within our supply chain, we completed the sale of our Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center resulting in proceeds of $6.2 million and a gain on the sale of $5.4 million.

• Lean Six Sigma - Over the past three years we have had well over 100 employees complete Lean Six Sigma training, which is a systematic data driven approach to analyzing and improving business processes.

• Improved Operational Performance - We continued to improve the fundamentals of our business, measured as improved customer service levels to our customers.

We believe we have created a scalable infrastructure that will allow us to take advantage of future growth opportunities. We continue to strive to be our customers' first choice for maintenance, repair and operational solutions.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR 2017 AS COMPARED TO 2016

	Year Ended December 31,										Year-to-Year
	2017					2016					Change
(Dollars in thousands)	Amount			% of Net Sales		Amount			% of Net Sales		Amount			%
Net sales	$	305,907		100.0	%	$	276,573		100.0	%	$	29,334		10.6	%
Cost of goods sold	122,889			40.2		108,511			39.2		14,378			6.1
Gross profit	183,018			59.8		168,062			60.8		14,956			8.9
Operating expenses:
Selling expenses	98,025			32.0		92,908			33.6		5,117			5.5
General and administrative expenses	80,479			26.4		76,611			27.7		3,868			5.0
Total SG&A	178,504			58.4		169,519			61.3		8,985			5.3
Gain on sale of property	(5,422		)	(1.8	)	—			—		(5,422		)
Total operating expenses	173,082			56.6		169,519			61.3		3,563
Operating income (loss)	9,936			3.2		(1,457		)	(0.5	)	11,393
Interest expense	(622		)	(0.2	)	(496		)	(0.3	)	(126		)
Other income, net	780			0.3		422			0.2		358
Income (loss) before income taxes	10,094			3.3		(1,531		)	(0.6	)	11,625
Income tax (benefit) expense	(19,594		)	(6.4	)	98			—		(19,692		)
Net income (loss)	$	29,688		9.7	%	$	(1,629	)	(0.6	)%	$	31,317

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Sales and Gross Profits

Sales and gross profit results by operating segment for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:

	Year Ended December31,						Increase
(Dollars in thousands)	2017			2016			Amount		%
Net sales
Lawson	$	297,953		$	276,573		$	21,380	7.7	%
Bolt (1)	7,954			—			7,954
Consolidated	$	305,907		$	276,573		$	29,334	10.6	%
Gross profit
Lawson	$	179,578		$	168,062		$	11,516	6.9	%
Bolt (1)	3,440			—			3,440
Consolidated	$	183,018		$	168,062		$	14,956	8.9	%
Gross profit margin
Lawson	60.3		%	60.8		%
Bolt (1)	43.2		%
Consolidated	59.8		%	60.8		%

(1)    Results for Bolt only reflect the period subsequent to the acquisition date of October 3, 2017.

Net sales increased 10.6% in 2017 to $305.9 million from $276.6 million in 2016. Lawson segment sales increased 7.7% over the prior year primarily due to increased productivity of sales representatives, the effect of acquisitions completed in 2016 and the overall improvement in the MRO marketplace. The Company experienced growth in all major categories including regional, large strategic national, Kent Automotive and governmental accounts. Average daily sales, defined as net sales divided by the 252 business days in each year, grew to $1.214 million in 2017 compared to $1.098 million in 2016. Bolt and the 2016 acquisitions contributed 2.9% and 1.2%, respectively, to the sales increase year over year.

Gross profit increased to $183.0 million in 2017 from $168.1 million and decreased to 59.8% of net sales from 60.8% of net sales a year ago. The decrease in the gross margin percentage was primarily a result of the Bolt acquisition with lower gross margins. The Lawson gross margin declined as a percentage of sales primarily driven by higher sales to larger national customers, who typically generate lower product margins, and additional transportation costs associated with the movement of certain inventory due to the closure of the Fairfield, New Jersey, distribution center early in 2017.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

	Year Ended December 31,				Increase
	2017		2016		Amount		%
Selling expenses
Lawson	$	97,376	$	92,908	$	4,468	4.8	%
Bolt	649		—		649
Consolidated	$	98,025	$	92,908	$	5,117	5.5	%
General and administrative expenses
Lawson	$	78,460	$	76,611	$	1,849	2.4	%
Bolt	2,019		—		2,019
Consolidated	$	80,479	$	76,611	$	3,868	5.0	%

Selling expenses consist of compensation paid to our sales representatives and related expenses to support our sales efforts. Selling expenses increased $5.1 million to $98.0 million in 2017 from $92.9 million in 2016 due primarily to increased compensation costs on higher sales and the acquisition of Bolt. As a percent of sales, selling expenses decreased to 32.0% from 33.6% as the selling expenses were leveraged over a higher sales base.

General and administrative expenses consist of expenses to operate our distribution network and overhead expenses to manage the business, including the 13 branch locations of Bolt. General and administrative expenses increased $3.9 million to $80.5 million in 2017 from $76.6 million in 2016, due primarily to restoring incentive compensation accruals as a result of improved operating results, offset partially by lower depreciation of $1.3 million and lower severance expenses of $1.6 million.

Gain on sale of properties

In 2017, we received net cash proceeds of $6.2 million and recognized a gain of $5.4 million from the sale of our Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center.

Interest Expense

Interest expenses increased $0.1 million in 2017, over the prior year, due primarily to higher average borrowings outstanding.

Other Income, Net

Other income, net increased $0.4 million in 2017, over the prior year, due primarily to the effect of favorable changes in the exchange rate on Canadian transactions.

Income Tax (Benefit) Expense

In 2012, due to historical cumulative losses, we had determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance.

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, $21.2 million of our U.S. valuation allowances were released at December 31, 2017.

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The benefit generated by the reversal of valuation reserves at December 31, 2017 mainly resulted in the net tax benefit of $19.6 million for 2017 (See Note 9 - Income Taxes in Item 8 for further details). Income tax expense of $0.1 million recorded in 2016 was primarily due to state taxes and adjustments to reserves for uncertain tax positions.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR 2016 AS COMPARED TO 2015

	Year Ended December 31,										Year to Year
	2016					2015					Change
(Dollars in thousands)	Amount			% of Net Sales		Amount			% of Net Sales		Amount			%
Net sales	$	276,573		100.0	%	$	275,834		100.0	%	$	739		0.3	%
Cost of goods sold	108,511			39.2		106,710			38.7		1,801			—
Gross profit	168,062			60.8		169,124			61.3		(1,062		)	(0.6	)
Operating expenses:
Selling expenses	92,908			33.6		90,093			32.7		2,815			4.9
General and administrative expenses	76,611			27.7		75,979			27.5		632			0.8
Total SG&A	169,519			61.3		166,072			60.2		3,447			2.1
Environmental remediation expense	—			—		931			0.3		(931		)
Total operating expenses	169,519			61.3		167,003			60.5		2,516
Operating income (loss)	(1,457		)	(0.5	)	2,121			0.8		(3,578		)
Interest expense	(496		)	(0.3	)	(766		)	(0.3	)	270
Other income (expense), net	422			0.2		(203		)	(0.1	)	625
Income (loss) before income tax expense	(1,531		)	(0.6	)	1,152			0.4		(2,683		)
Income tax expense	98			—		855			0.3		(757		)
Net income (loss)	$	(1,629	)	(0.6	)%	$	297		0.1	%	$	(1,926	)

Sales and gross profit

Net sales increased 0.3% in 2016 to $276.6 million from $275.8 million in 2015, primarily due to an increase in sales by our Kent Automotive and Government divisions, growing current strategic national account relationships and sales generated by acquisitions. This was partially offset by a general slow-down in the MRO marketplace, a decrease in the Canadian exchange rate and a decrease in sales of $2.6 million to oil and gas customers. Average daily sales were $1.098 million in 2016 compared to $1.095 million in 2015.

Gross profit decreased to $168.1 million or 60.8% of net sales from $169.1 million or 61.3% of net sales of net sales a year ago. Product margin remained consistent versus 2015, however, the gross margin percentage was lower due to increased net freight expense and additional labor expenses related to repackaging inventory from acquisitions and additional labor and freight costs incurred as a result of rebalancing and refining our inventory forecasting process.

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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling expenses increased $2.8 million to $92.9 million in 2016 from $90.1 million in 2015 primarily driven by expenses related to an increase in the number of sales representatives. This increase was partially offset by $1.9 million of expense related to the North American sales meeting incurred in 2015 which was not held in 2016.

General and administrative expenses increased $0.6 million to $76.6 million in 2016 from $76.0 million in 2015, driven by an increase of $1.1 million in severance expense, primarily related the closure of the Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center, and increases in compensation including an increase of $0.4 million in stock-based compensation of which a portion varies with our stock price. These increases were partially offset by decreases across many other expense categories as a result of cost reduction efficiencies.

Other Operating Expenses

In 2015 we accrued $0.9 million related to estimated future remediation of an environmental matter involving land owned in Decatur, Alabama, that was part of a division that was previously sold in 2014. The estimated cost of remediation will most likely be adjusted in future years as more information becomes available.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $0.3 million compared to 2015 due primarily to a lower average balance on our revolving credit facility.

Other Income (Expense), Net

Other income (expense), net improved $0.6 million over 2015 primarily due to foreign currency transaction gains and an increase in interest income.

Income Tax Expense

Due to historical cumulative losses, in 2012, we determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance. Subsequently, in the fourth quarter of 2017, based on available evidence, we reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and determined it was more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Although we were still in a full tax valuation allowance position, income tax expense of $0.1 million and $0.9 million was recorded in 2016 and 2015, respectively, primarily due to state taxes and adjustments to reserves for uncertain tax positions.

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash provided by operating activities was $7.1 million, $8.6 million and $9.5 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, primarily reflecting operating results, net of depreciation and amortization.

In 2017, we completed the acquisition of The Bolt Supply House Ltd. for approximately $32.3 million which was paid for by using a combination of cash on hand and borrowings of $16.3 million from our existing revolving credit facility.

In 2017, we completed the sale of our distribution center located in Fairfield, New Jersey, receiving net cash proceeds of $6.2 million. Capital expenditures of $1.3 million, $3.1 million and $2.3 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, were primarily for improvements to our distribution centers and information technology. We invested $32.3 million and $6.0 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively, in business acquisitions.

Lawson Loan Agreement

In 2016, we entered into an amendment to the Loan Agreement that extended the maturity date to August 8, 2020. We also received an increase in the credit available under the Loan Agreement from 80% to 85% of our eligible accounts receivable, as defined in the amendment, and from 50% to 60% of our eligible inventory, as defined in the amendment, up to the facility limit of $40.0 million.

We have the ability to borrow funds through the Loan Agreement which consists of a $40.0 million revolving credit facility which includes a $10.0 million sub-facility for letters of credit. The terms of the Loan Agreement as amended are more fully detailed in Note 9 – Loan Agreement of the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

At December 31, 2017, we had $13.6 million of borrowings on our revolving line of credit under the Loan Agreement and had borrowing availability of $22.8 million. Additionally, we had $0.9 million outstanding under an Operating Loan Agreement ("Bolt Agreement" ) for aggregate borrowings outstanding of $14.5 million.

In addition to other customary representations, warranties and covenants, and if the excess capacity is below $10.0 million, we are required to meet a minimum trailing twelve month EBITDA to fixed charges ratio, as defined in the amended Loan Agreement. On December 31, 2017, our borrowing capacity exceeded $10.0 million, therefore, we were not subject to these financial covenants, however, we have provided the results of the financial covenants below for informational purposes:

Quarterly Financial Covenants	Requirement	Actual
EBITDA to fixed charges ratio	1.10 : 1.00	3.62 : 1.00

Although we have met the minimum financial covenant levels for all quarters since the Loan Agreement was put in place including the quarter ended December 31, 2017, failure to meet these covenant requirements in future quarters could lead to higher financing costs, increased restrictions, or reduce or eliminate our ability to borrow funds.

No cash dividends were paid in the three years ended December, 31 2017 and dividends are currently restricted under our Loan Agreement to amounts not to exceed $7.0 million annually.

Commitment Letter

Bolt has a Commitment letter which allows Bolt to access up to $5.5 million Canadian dollars. The Commitment Letter carries an interest rate of the prime rate plus 0.25%, is subject to certain covenants and is secured by substantially all of Bolt’s assets. The Commitment Letter is subject to a working capital ratio, a maximum ratio of debt to tangible net worth of the Bolt assets and a debt service coverage ratio as defined in the Commitment Letter. At December 31, 2017, Bolt was in compliance with the financial covenants which are subject to periodic review, at least annually, with the next review due by August 31, 2018.

We believe cash expected to be provided by operations and the funds available under our Loan Agreement are sufficient to fund our operating requirements, strategic initiatives and capital improvements throughout 2018.

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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

Contractual obligations that require cash payments over future periods at December 31, 2017 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)			Payments due in years ended December 31,
	Total		2018		2019 – 2020		2021 - 2022		Thereafter
Revolving line of credit (1)	$	14,543	$	14,543	$	—	$	—	$	—
Operating leases (2)	13,872		2,910		5,054		4,706		1,202
Financing lease obligation	6,222		1,348		2,839		2,035		—
Capital leases	389		169		184		36		—
Security bonus plan (3)	13,176		195		—		—		12,981
Deferred compensation	5,626		150		257		83		5,136
Purchase commitments	10,211		10,211		—		—		—
Severance obligation	483		483		—		—		—
Total contractual cash obligations	$	64,522	$	30,009	$	8,334	$	6,860	$	19,319

(1) The revolving line of credit with CIBC Bank USA formerly known as The PrivateBank expires in August 2020. Due to the lock box arrangement and a subjective acceleration clause contained in the borrowing agreement, the revolving line of credit is classified as a current contractual obligation.

(2) Operating lease obligations are partially offset by future proceeds of $0.5 million from a sub-lease expiring in March 2023.

(3) Payments to participants in our security bonus plan are made on a lump sum basis at time of separation from the Company. Payouts for known separation dates have been included in the scheduled year of payout, while payouts for unknown separation dates are reflected in the thereafter column.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Of the $13.9 million operating lease obligation, $6.4 million relates to a lease agreement for our headquarters which expires in March 2023, and $3.2 million relates to a lease agreement for our Reno, Nevada, distribution center which expires in June 2024. The remainder of the operating leases relate to the lease of warehouse and office equipment. The lease obligation associated with our headquarters is partially offset by $0.5 million of total future minimum lease proceeds from a portion of the leased headquarters that has been sub-leased through March of 2023.

Also, as of December 31, 2017, we had contractual commitments to purchase $10.2 million of product from our suppliers and contractors.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

We have disclosed our significant accounting policies in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements. The following provides information on the accounts requiring more significant estimates.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts — We evaluate the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where we are aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings, substantial down-grading of credit ratings), a specific reserve for bad debts is recorded against amounts due to reduce the receivable to the amount we believe will be collected. For all other customers, we recognize reserves for bad debts based on our historical experience of bad debt write-offs as a percent of accounts receivable outstanding. If circumstances change (e.g., higher than expected defaults or an unexpected material adverse change in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations), the estimates of the recoverability of amounts due to us could be revised by a material amount. At December 31, 2017, our reserve was 1.2% of our gross accounts receivable outstanding. A hypothetical change of one percent to our reserve as a percent of our gross accounts receivable would have affected our annual doubtful accounts expense by approximately $0.4 million.

Inventory Reserves — Inventories consist principally of finished goods and are stated at the lower of cost (determined using the first-in-first-out method) or net realizable value. Most of our products are not exposed to the risk of obsolescence due to technology changes. However, some of our products do have a limited shelf life, and from time to time we add and remove items from our catalogs, brochures or website for marketing and other purposes.

To reduce our inventory to a lower of cost or market value, we record a reserve for slow-moving and obsolete inventory based on historical experience and monitoring of our current inventory activity. We use estimates to determine the necessity of recording these reserves based on periodic detailed analysis, using both qualitative and quantitative factors. As part of this analysis, we consider several factors including the inventories’ length of time on hand, historical sales, product shelf life, product life cycle, product category and product obsolescence. In general, depending on the product category, we reserve inventory with low turnover at higher rates than inventory with higher turnover.

At December 31, 2017, our inventory reserve was $5.6 million, equal to approximately 9.8% of our total inventory. A hypothetical change of one percent to our reserve as a percent of total inventory would have affected our cost of goods sold by $0.5 million.

Income Taxes — Deferred tax assets or liabilities reflect temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. A valuation allowance is established to offset any deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is more likely than not (i.e. greater than 50% likely) that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The determination of the amount of a valuation allowance to be provided on recorded deferred tax assets involves estimates regarding (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, (3) the impact of tax planning strategies and (4) the ability to carry back deferred tax assets to offset prior taxable income. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including past operating results, projections of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. The projections of future taxable income include a number of estimates and assumptions regarding our volume, pricing and costs. Additionally, valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can be impacted by changes to tax laws. The Company recognizes the benefit of tax positions when a benefit is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likely) to be sustained on its technical merits. Recognized tax benefits are measured at the largest amount that is more likely than not to be sustained, based on cumulative probability, in final settlement of the position. Significant judgment is required in determining income tax provisions as well as deferred tax asset and liability balances, including the estimation of valuation allowances and the evaluation of uncertain tax positions.

In 2012, due to historical cumulative losses, we had determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance.

24

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, $21.2 million of our U.S. valuation allowances were released at December 31, 2017.

Goodwill Impairment – Goodwill is tested annually during the fourth quarter, or when events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of each reporting unit below its carrying value. Qualitative factors are reviewed to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than the carrying value. The Company considers factors such as macroeconomic, industry and market conditions, cost factors, overall financial performance and other relevant factors that would affect the individual reporting segments. If we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than the carrying value of the reporting unit, then no further impairment testing is needed.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

Two of our subsidiaries are located and operate in Canada using the Canadian dollar as its functional currency. Operating results are translated into U.S. dollars when consolidated into our financial statements. Therefore, we are exposed to market risk relating to the change in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar. A hypothetical 10% change in the Canadian exchange rate would have affected our 2017 net sales by $3.9 million and net assets by $5.2 million.

Certain compensation awards have been granted to our directors, officers and key employees that are payable in cash based upon the market price of our common stock. These awards are re-measured each reporting period and the effect of the change in the share price is reflected in our operating results. A hypothetical 10% increase in the price of our common stock on December 31, 2017 would have decreased our 2017 operating results by $1.7 million and a hypothetical decrease of 10% in the price would have increased our 2017 operating results by $0.7 million.

A number of our current and past employees have opted to defer a portion of their earned compensation to be paid at a future date. These individuals have the ability to invest the deferred compensation in one or more portfolios that track the performance of various mutual funds. As of December 31, 2017, the liability, which is based on the performance of these funds, was $5.6 million. Additionally, we have invested funds in life insurance policies on certain executives. As of December 31, 2017, the cash surrender value of life insurance policies invested in financial instruments similar to those supporting the deferred compensation liability was $12.0 million. Therefore, any future net increase or decrease in the market value of the deferred compensation liability would be offset by the performance of the portfolio of the cash value of the life insurance asset and the combined gain and loss would have no material effect on our financial results.

As of December 31, 2017, we had a $14.5 million outstanding balance on our revolving lines of credit. The market risk of a one percentage point change in the LIBOR or Prime interest rates would affect our operating results by $0.1 million.

We are exposed to market risk relating to increased commodity and energy costs affecting the production costs of our vendors. These vendors typically look to pass their increased costs along to us and if we are unable to fully pass these costs through to our customers or to modify our activities, the impact would have an adverse effect on our operating profit margins.

25

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

The following information is presented in this item:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Consolidated Financial Statements	27
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and 2016	28
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015	29
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the Years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015	30
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015	31
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	32
Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	53

26

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Shareholders and Board of Directors

Lawson Products, Inc.

Chicago, Illinois

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Lawson Products, Inc. (the “Company”) and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company and subsidiaries at December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) and our report dated February 22, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/BDO USA, LLP

We have served as the Company's auditors since 2013

Chicago, Illinois

February 22, 2018

27

Lawson Products, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Dollars in thousands, except share data)

	December 31,
	2017			2016
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	4,416		$	10,421
Restricted cash	800			800
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $476 and $454, respectively	38,575			30,200
Inventories, net	50,928			42,561
Miscellaneous receivables and prepaid expenses	3,728			3,788
Total current assets	98,447			87,770
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization	27,333			30,907
Deferred income taxes	21,248			20
Goodwill	19,614			5,520
Cash value of life insurance	11,964			10,051
Intangible assets, net	11,813			844
Other assets	248			195
Total assets	$	190,667		$	135,307
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Revolving lines of credit	$	14,543		$	841
Accounts payable	12,394			11,307
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	33,040			27,289
Total current liabilities	59,977			39,437
Security bonus plan	12,981			14,216
Financing lease obligation	6,420			7,543
Deferred compensation	5,476			4,830
Deferred rent liability	3,512			3,676
Deferred tax liability	3,115			—
Other liabilities	5,696			4,472
Total liabilities	97,177			74,174
Commitments and contingencies – Note 13
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, $1 par value:
Authorized - 500,000 shares, issued and outstanding - None	—			—
Common stock, $1 par value:
Authorized - 35,000,000 shares Issued – 8,921,302 and 8,864,929 shares, respectively Outstanding – 8,888,028 and 8,832,623 shares, respectively	8,921			8,865
Capital in excess of par value	13,005			11,055
Retained earnings	71,453			41,943
Treasury stock – 33,274 and 32,306 shares held, respectively	(711		)	(691		)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	822			(39		)
Total stockholders’ equity	93,490			61,133
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	190,667		$	135,307

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

28

Lawson Products, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)

	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Net sales	$	305,907		$	276,573		$	275,834
Cost of goods sold	122,889			108,511			106,710
Gross profit	183,018			168,062			169,124
Operating expenses:
Selling expenses	98,025			92,908			90,093
General and administrative expenses	80,479			76,611			75,979
Total SG&A	178,504			169,519			166,072
Gain on sale of property	(5,422		)	—			—
Environmental remediation expense	—			—			931
Operating expenses	173,082			169,519			167,003
Operating income (loss)	9,936			(1,457		)	2,121
Interest expense	(622		)	(496		)	(766		)
Other income (expenses), net	780			422			(203		)
Income (loss) before income taxes	10,094			(1,531		)	1,152
Income tax (benefit) expense	(19,594		)	98			855
Net Income (loss)	$	29,688		$	(1,629	)	$	297
Basic income (loss) per share of common stock	$	3.35		$	(0.19	)	$	0.03
Diluted income (loss) per share of common stock	$	3.25		$	(0.19	)	$	0.03
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	8,864			8,780			8,726
Effect of dilutive securities outstanding	267			—			150
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	9,131			8,780			8,876
Comprehensive income (loss)
Net income (loss)	$	29,688		$	(1,629	)	$	297
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	861			427			(1,892		)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$	30,549		$	(1,202	)	$	(1,595	)

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

29

Lawson Products, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

(Dollars in thousands)

	Common Stock, $1 par value		Capital in Excess of Par Value			Retained Earnings			Treasury Stock			Accumulated Other Comprehensive income (loss)			Total stockholders' equity
Balance at January 1, 2015	$	8,720	$	8,701		$	43,275		$	(267	)	$	1,426		$	61,855
Net income	—		—			297			—			—			297
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	—		—			—			—			(1,892		)	(1,892		)
Stock-based compensation	—		1,252			—			—			—			1,252
Shares issued	76		(76		)	—			—			—			—
Share repurchase under stock award program	—		—			—			(248		)	—			(248		)
Balance at December 31, 2015	8,796		9,877			43,572			(515		)	(466		)	61,264
Net loss	—		—			(1,629		)	—			—			(1,629		)
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	—		—			—			—			427			427
Stock-based compensation	—		1,247			—			—			—			1,247
Shares issued	69		(69		)	—			—			—			—
Share repurchase under stock award program	—		—			—			(176		)	—			(176		)
Balance at December 31, 2016	8,865		11,055			41,943			(691		)	(39		)	61,133
Change in accounting principle (1)	—		—			(178		)	—			—			(178		)
Net income	—		—			29,688			—			—			29,688
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	—		—			—			—			861			861
Stock-based compensation	—		2,006			—			—			—			2,006
Shares issued	56		(56		)	—			—			—			—
Share repurchase under stock award program	—		—			—			(20		)	—			(20		)
Balance at December 31, 2017	$	8,921	$	13,005		$	71,453		$	(711	)	$	822		$	93,490

(1) The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation - Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, on January 1, 2017 using the modified retrospective approach. See Note 1 - Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further details.

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

30

Lawson Products, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Dollars in thousands)

	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Operating activities
Net income (loss)	$	29,688		$	(1,629	)	$	297
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	6,770			8,066			8,543
Stock-based compensation	3,106			2,469			2,093
Deferred income taxes	(21,229		)	31			—
Gain on disposal of property and equipment	(5,422		)	—			—
Increase in environmental reserve	—			—			931
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquired businesses:
Accounts receivable	(5,275		)	(3,252		)	3,285
Inventories, net	(1,713		)	2,229			(116		)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(1,226		)	(45		)	418
Accounts payable and other liabilities	1,846			573			(6,133		)
Other	525			194			215
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	7,070		$	8,636		$	9,533
Investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	$	(1,256	)	$	(3,112	)	$	(2,342	)
Business acquisitions, net of acquired cash	(32,286		)	(6,030		)	(441		)
Proceeds from sale of property	6,177			—			3
Net cash used in investing activities	$	(27,365	)	$	(9,142	)	$	(2,780	)
Financing activities
Net proceeds from (payments on) revolving line of credit	$	13,595		$	(84	)	$	925
Proceeds from stock option exercises	20			—			50
Repurchase treasury shares	(20		)	(176		)	(248		)
Business acquisition payment	(80		)	—			—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	$	13,515		$	(260	)	$	727
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	775			422			(922		)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(6,005		)	(344		)	6,558
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	10,421			10,765			4,207
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	4,416		$	10,421		$	10,765

See notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

31

Lawson Products, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 - Description of Business

Lawson Products, Inc. (“Lawson” or the “Company”) is a North American distributor of products and services to the industrial, commercial, institutional and government maintenance, repair and operations (“MRO”) marketplace. The Company has two operating segments. The Lawson operating segment distributes MRO products to customers primarily through a network of sales representatives offering VMI service to customers throughout the United States and Canada. In October 2017 the Company acquired The Bolt Supply House, Ltd. ("Bolt"), an MRO distributor located in western Canada. The Bolt operating segment distributes MRO products primarily through its 13 branches located in Western Canada.

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation — The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and include the accounts and transactions of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period presentation. Such reclassifications have no effect on net income as previously reported.

Revenue Recognition — Net sales include product sales and billings for freight and handling charges. Sales and associated cost of goods sold are generally recognized when products are shipped and title passes to customers. We accrue for returns based on historical evidence of return rates.

Cash Equivalents — The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of the Company’s cash equivalents at December 31, 2017 approximates fair value.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts — The Company evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where the Company is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings, substantial down-grading of credit ratings), a specific reserve for bad debts is recorded against amounts due to reduce the receivable to the amount the Company reasonably believes will be collected. For all other customers, the Company recognizes reserves for bad debts based on the Company’s historical experience of bad debt write-offs as a percent of accounts receivable outstanding. If circumstances change (e.g., higher than expected defaults or an unexpected material adverse change in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations), the estimates of the recoverability of amounts due the Company could be revised by a material amount.

Inventories — Inventories principally consist of finished goods stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in-first-out method. To reduce the cost basis of inventory to a lower of cost or net realizable value, a reserve is recorded for slow-moving and obsolete inventory based on historical experience and monitoring of current inventory activity. Estimates are used to determine the necessity of recording these reserves based on periodic detailed analysis using both qualitative and quantitative factors. As part of this analysis, the Company considers several factors including the inventories length of time on hand, historical sales, product shelf life, product life cycle, product category and product obsolescence.

Property, Plant and Equipment — Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation expense is computed primarily by the straight-line method for its buildings, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. The Company estimates useful lives of 20 to 30 years for buildings and improvements and 3 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. Amortization of financing and capital leases is included in depreciation expense.

Depreciation expense was $4.7 million, $4.7 million and $4.6 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Capitalized software is amortized over estimated useful lives of 3 to 5 years using the straight-line method. Amortization expense of capitalized software was $1.6 million, $3.1 million and $3.8 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Cash Value of Life Insurance — The Company has invested funds in life insurance policies on certain current and former employees. The cash surrender value of the policies is invested in various investment instruments and is recorded as an asset on our consolidated financial statements. The Company records these funds at contractual value. The change in the cash surrender value of the life insurance policies, which is recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses, is the change in the policies' contractual values.

32

Deferred Compensation — The Company’s Executive Deferral Plan (“Deferral Plan”) allows certain executives to defer payment of a portion of their earned compensation. The deferred compensation is recorded in an Account Balance, which is a bookkeeping entry made by the Company to measure the amount due to the participant. The Account Balance is equal to the participant’s deferred compensation, adjusted for increases and/or decreases in the amount that the participant has designated to one or more bookkeeping portfolios that track the performance of certain mutual funds. Lawson adjusts the deferred compensation liability to equal the contractual value of the participants’ Account Balances. These adjustments are the changes in contractual value of the individual plans and are recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses.

Stock-Based Compensation — Compensation based on the share value of the Company’s common stock is valued at its fair value at the grant date and the expense is recognized over the vesting period. Fair value is re-measured each reporting period for liability-classified awards that may be redeemable in cash.

Goodwill — The Company had $19.6 million and $5.5 million of goodwill in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Goodwill represents the cost of business acquisitions in excess of the fair value of identifiable net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to the appropriate reporting unit, which are the same as the operating segments as reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker responsible for reviewing operating performance and allocating resources. The Company reviews goodwill for potential impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or when an event or other circumstance changes that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the asset below its carrying value.

The first step in the multi-step process to determine if goodwill has been impaired and to what degree is to review the relevant qualitative factors that could cause the fair value of the reporting unit to decrease below the carrying value of the reporting unit. After reviewing the qualitative factors relevant to the reporting units, including conditions surrounding the industry we operate in compared to when the acquisitions were completed, the financial performance of the reporting units compared to our projected results, and macroeconomic conditions as a whole, we have determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceed their carrying value, therefore goodwill has not been impaired and no further steps need to be taken.

Intangible Assets — The Company's intangible assets consists of trade names, and customer relationships. Intangible assets are amortized over weighted average 15 and 11 year estimated useful lives for trade names and customer relationships, respectively.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets — The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and definite life intangibles, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of these assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by a comparison of the assets' carrying amount to their expected future undiscounted net cash flows. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured based on the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. In 2016 the Company determined that a triggering event had occurred when it announced a plan to close its distribution center located in Fairfield, New Jersey. Based on independent offers obtained for the facility, the Company determined that no impairment had occurred. No additional triggering events or impairments occurred in 2017.

Income Taxes — Deferred tax assets or liabilities reflect temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. A valuation allowance is established to offset any deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is more likely than not (i.e. greater than 50% likely) that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The determination of the amount of a valuation allowance to be provided on recorded deferred tax assets involves estimates regarding (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, (3) the impact of tax planning strategies and (4) the ability to carry back deferred tax assets to offset prior taxable income. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including past operating results, projections of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. The projections of future taxable income include a number of estimates and assumptions regarding our volume, pricing and costs. Additionally, valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can be impacted by changes to tax laws. Significant judgment is required in determining income tax provisions as well as deferred tax asset and liability balances, including the estimation of valuation allowances and the evaluation of tax positions.

In 2012, due to historical cumulative losses, we had determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance.

33

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Earnings from the Company's foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. A distribution of these non-U.S. earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise would subject the Company to foreign withholding taxes and may subject the Company to U.S. federal and state taxes.

The Company recognizes the benefit of tax positions when a benefit is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likely) to be sustained on its technical merits. Recognized tax benefits are measured at the largest amount that is more likely than not to be sustained, based on cumulative probability, in final settlement of the position. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

Leases — Leases are categorized as either operating or capital leases at inception. Operating lease costs are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. An asset and a corresponding liability for the capital lease obligation are established for the cost of capital leases. The capital lease obligation is amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term. The Company purchased $0.3 million and $0.2 million of assets financed by capital leases in 2017 and 2016, respectively, in non-cash transactions that were not reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

For build-to-suit financing leases, the Company establishes an asset and liability for the estimated construction costs incurred to the extent that it is involved in the construction of structural improvements or takes construction risk prior to the commencement of the lease. Upon occupancy of facilities under build-to-suit leases, the Company assesses whether these arrangements qualify for sales recognition under the sale-leaseback accounting guidance. If a lease does not meet the criteria to qualify for a sale-leaseback transaction, the established asset and liability remain on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. This asset is depreciated over the life of the lease and the liability is reduced by the non-interest portion of the lease payments for costs allocated to the building and on a straight line basis for costs allocated to land.

Sub-leases — If the Company is relieved of its primary obligation under the original lease then the original lease is considered to be terminated, otherwise if the Company retains primary obligation under the original lease then the Company continues to account for the original lease and also accounts for the new sub-lease as lessor. At the time the sub-lease is executed, the Company records a gain or loss equal to the difference between the total cash payments to be made for gross rent under the original lease agreement over the life of the sub-lease plus executory costs and total gross rent proceeds expected to be received over the life of the sub-lease.

Earnings per Share — Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution from the exercise or conversion of outstanding stock options, market stock units and restricted stock awards into common stock. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, stock options to purchase 80,000, 40,000 and 40,000, respectively of the Company's common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the options’ exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common stock. The dilutive effect of outstanding securities of approximately 164,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share as the Company recorded a loss for those periods and therefore the effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Foreign Currency — The accounts of foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. All balance sheet amounts are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the applicable period end. Components of income or loss are translated using the average exchange rate for each reporting period.

Gains and losses resulting from changes in the exchange rates from translation of the subsidiary accounts in local currency to U.S. dollars are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in the consolidated balance sheets. Gains and losses resulting from the effect of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are included as a component of net income or loss upon settlement of the transaction.

34

Gains and losses resulting from intercompany transactions are included as a component of net income or loss each reporting period unless the transactions are of a long-term-investment nature and settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future, in which case the gains and losses are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive or loss in the consolidated balance sheets.

Treasury Stock —The Company repurchased 968, 7,162 and 11,261 shares of its common stock in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, from employees upon the vesting of restricted stock to offset the income taxes owed by those employees. The Company accounts for treasury stock using the cost method and includes treasury stock as a component of stockholders’ equity. The value of the treasury stock repurchased of $20 thousand, $176 thousand and $248 thousand in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Acquisitions — The Company recognizes identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions for the purchase price allocation process to value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill.

Use of Estimates — Preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for allowance for doubtful accounts. inventory reserves, goodwill and intangible assets valuation, and income taxes in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting

Effective January 1, 2017, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, “Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718)” (“ASU 2016-09”). Prior to January 1, 2017, the Company recognized excess tax benefits or deficiencies of stock-based compensation expense, to the extent that there were sufficient recognized excess tax benefits previously recognized, as a component of additional paid-in capital. ASU 2016-09 requires the Company to account for excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. The adoption was applied on a modified retrospective basis. Deferred tax assets related to stock-based compensation were fully reserved and, therefore, there was no net effect on the Company's beginning balance sheet for 2017 and a $0.2 million benefit to the Company's results of operations.

As a result of including the income tax effects from excess tax benefits in income tax expense, the effects of the excess tax benefits are no longer included in the calculation of diluted shares outstanding, resulting in an increase in the number of diluted shares outstanding. The Company adopted this change in the method of calculating diluted shares outstanding on a prospective basis.

ASU 2016-09 also permits entities to make an accounting policy election related to how forfeitures will impact the recognition of compensation cost for stock-based compensation to either estimate the total number of awards for which the requisite service period will not be rendered, as currently required, or to account for forfeitures as they occur. Upon adoption of ASU 2016-09, the Company elected to change its accounting policy to account for forfeitures as they occur. The change was applied on a modified retrospective basis with a cumulative effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings by $178 thousand, as of January 1, 2017.

Additionally, ASU 2016-09 addressed the presentation of employee taxes paid on the statement of cash flows. The Company is now required to present the cost of shares withheld from the employee to satisfy the employees’ income tax liability as a financing activity on the statement of cash flows rather than as an operating cash flow. The Company adopted this change retrospectively. The Company withheld shares with a value of $20 thousand, $176 thousand and $248 thousand to satisfy employee taxes in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which is intended to help companies evaluate whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses by providing a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is a business. This ASU will be effective commencing with our quarter ending March 31, 2018. Although we do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption, it may have a material impact if applicable transactions occur.

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In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. This standard eliminates a step from the goodwill impairment test and instead requires an entity to recognize a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the goodwill carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. This guidance is effective for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. This guidance must be applied on a prospective basis. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2017. The adoption of this guidance had no material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash, which requires amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the total beginning and ending amounts for the periods shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-08 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. The Company does not expect the impact on its consolidated financial statements to be material.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) in order to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for those leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP. ASU 2016-02 requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a modified retrospective approach and early adoption is permitted. The Company will adopt ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of 2019. While the effect of the pronouncement has not yet been quantified, the Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of recording the right-of-use-assets and liabilities on its financial position. The Company anticipates it will be required to record assets and liabilities for leases currently classified as operating leases.

In November, 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This update simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes by requiring all entities that present a classified balance sheet to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as a noncurrent amount. The objective of this ASU is to reduce the cost and complexity of recording deferred taxes without affecting the usefulness of financial statement information. The pronouncement is effective for public entities in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years and the guidance may be applied on either a prospective or retrospective basis. The Company adopted ASU 2015-07 on a prospective basis in 2017.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No.  2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory, which requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which consists of the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable cost of completion, disposal, and transportation. This pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is to be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company adopted ASU 2015-11 on January 1, 2017 and it had no material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASU 2014-09), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. The new standard is effective for the Company's interim and annual periods beginning with the first quarter of 2018. The standard is to be applied using one of two retrospective application methods.

The ASU also requires disclosures sufficient to enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers, including qualitative and quantitative disclosures about contracts with customers, significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. Numerous updates were issued in 2016 that provide clarification on a number of specific issues as well as requiring additional disclosures.

The Company established a team to address the effect of the new accounting standard. The team has reviewed the terms and conditions included in a representative sample of its contracts with customers and, as a result of this review, determined that the terms of the majority of its contracts are similar in nature. Therefore, the Company will adopt the standard through the application of the portfolio approach in which a representative sample of customer contracts that are characteristically representative of all contracts are selected and are assessed under the guidance of the new standard.

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In applying the standard to the terms of these contracts, the Company identified that its Vendor Managed Inventory ("VMI") service in the Lawson segment is a separate performance obligation associated with its written and implied contracts. The VMI performance obligation is generally completed within a short period of time subsequent to control of the product passing to the customer. The amount of revenue associated with the VMI service will be deferred until the time that the VMI performance obligation has been completed.

Under the portfolio method, the Company has developed a methodology to estimate the dollar amount of this deferral. The methodology, as a practical expedient, uses certain assumptions to estimate the amount of revenue to be deferred. These estimates include, among others, the percentage of customers that take advantage of the VMI services offered, the amount of revenue to be allocated to the VMI service based on the value of the service to its customers, and the amount of time after control of the product passes to the customer that the VMI service obligation is completed.

The Company will apply this methodology to calculate the impact of the pronouncement on its consolidated financial statements. The Company expects to adopt ASU 2014-09 January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method. Under this method, a cumulative effect adjustment will be recorded based on applying the guidance to the customer contracts that were not completed at the date of initial application. As a result, prior periods will not be adjusted to reflect application of the new guidance.

Although the calculation has not yet been finalized, the Company anticipates that it will record a one-time increase in deferred revenue and a decrease to retained earnings of approximately $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2018 due to the adoption of the standard. The estimated impact of adopting ASC 606 is based on the Company's best estimate at the time of the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The actual impact is subject to change prior to the first quarter 2018 filing. After initial adoption, the effect on consolidated revenue and expenses in subsequent periods is not expected to be significant. However, additional quantitative and qualitative presentations and disclosures will be required on identified revenue streams and performance obligations.

Note 3 - Acquisitions

2017

In October, 2017, the Company acquired The Bolt Supply House Ltd., based in Calgary, Canada, for a purchase price of approximately $32.3 million, The purchase price was funded with cash on hand and utilization of Lawson Products’ existing credit facility. Bolt is a leading Canadian distributor of high quality fasteners, power tools and industrial MRO supplies, with 13 branch locations throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, Canada. The acquisition was made to add to the Company's revenue and earnings and expand distribution coverage in Western Canada.

The purchase price of the acquisition was allocated to the fair market value of Bolt's assets and liabilities on the acquisition date. The fair market value appraisals of the majority of the assets and liabilities were determined third party valuation firms including intangible assets of $7.2 million for trade names and $4.2 million for customers relationships and their estimated useful lives of 15 and 12 years, respectively. The $14.2 million allocated to goodwill reflects the purchase price less the fair market value of the identifiable net assets. The appropriate fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the related tax balances, are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions. These preliminary estimates and assumptions could change significantly during the purchase price measurement period as the Company finalizes the valuations of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the related tax balances. Such changes could result in material variances between the Company's future financial results and the amounts presented in the unaudited pro forma information, including variances in the estimated purchase price, fair values recorded and expenses associated with these items. Further operating details related to the operations of Bolt subsequent to the acquisition are included in Note 16 - Segment information.

2016

Primarily to expand its sales coverage and retain experienced sales representatives, the Company completed three acquisitions in 2016. In November, the Company acquired the assets of Mattic Industries Limited ("Mattic") an industrial parts distributor located in western Canada, for approximately $3.5 million in cash and $0.3 million in contingent consideration. In May, the Company acquired the assets of F.B. Feeney Hardware ("F. B. Feeney") in Ontario, Canada, for approximately $1.3 million in cash and $0.1 million in contingent consideration. And, in March, the Company acquired the assets of Perfect Products Company of Michigan ("Perfect Products"), an auto parts distributor for approximately $1.3 million in cash and $30 thousand in contingent consideration.

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The Company allocated $0.7 million of the purchase price of the three acquisitions to an intangible asset for customer relationships which will be amortized over five years. Total contingent consideration of $0.4 million was not reflected in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows.

2015

The Company acquired one Company in 2015, West Coast Fasteners LTD (West Coast"), an auto parts distributor located in western Canada for approximately $0.4 million in cash.

A summary of the purchase price allocation of the acquisitions is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Cash paid and liabilities assumed
Cash paid	$	32,286	$	6,030	$	441
Deferred tax liability	3,065		—		—
Other liabilities	2,434		188		—
Contingent consideration	—		412		—
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441
Fair value of assets acquired
Goodwill	$	14,176	$	5,231	$	299
Trade names	7,241		—		—
Inventory	6,315		584		137
Customer relationships	4,186		733		—
Accounts receivable	3,323		—		—
Property, plant and equipment	1,796		—		—
Other assets	748		82		5
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441

Additional acquisition expenses of $0.7 million, $0.6 million and $0.3 million were recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table contains unaudited pro forma net sales and net income (loss) for Lawson Products assuming the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016			2015
Net Sales
Actual	$	305,907	$	276,573		$	275,834
Pro forma	$	331,522	$	308,250		$	283,573
Net income (loss)
Actual	$	29,688	$	(1,629	)	$	297
Pro forma	$	31,083	$	(1,148	)	$	317

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The pro forma disclosures in the table above include adjustments for, amortization of intangible assets, interest expense, tax expenses and the impact of pro forma adjustments and acquisition costs to reflect results that are more representative of the combined results of the transactions as if the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014. This pro forma information utilizes certain estimates, is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be indicative of the results of operation that would have actually occurred. In addition, future results may vary significantly from the results reflected in the pro forma information. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect the impact of future events that may occur after the acquisition, such as anticipated cost savings from operating synergies.

Note 4 — Restricted Cash

The Company has agreed to maintain $0.8 million in a money market account as collateral for an outside party that is providing certain commercial card processing services for the Company. The Company is restricted from withdrawing this balance without the prior consent of the outside party during the term of the agreement.

Note 5 – Inventories, net

Inventories, net, consisting primarily of purchased goods which are offered for resale, were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Inventories, gross	$	56,492		$	48,038
Reserve for obsolete and excess inventory	(5,564		)	(5,477		)
Inventories, net	$	50,928		$	42,561

Note 6 - Property, Plant and Equipment

Components of property, plant and equipment were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Land	$	2,752		$	2,721
Buildings and improvements	16,973			18,981
Machinery and equipment	23,277			22,837
Capitalized software	21,947			21,371
McCook Facility	12,961			12,961
Furniture and fixtures	5,634			5,714
Capital leases	806			534
Vehicles	214			166
Construction in progress	375			571
	84,939			85,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(57,606		)	(54,949		)
	$	27,333		$	30,907

In 2017, the Company received net cash proceeds of $6.2 million and recognized a gain of $5.4 million from the sale of its Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center.

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Note 7 - Goodwill

Goodwill activity related to these acquisitions is included in the table below:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Beginning balance	$	5,520		$	319
Acquisition	14,176			5,231
Impact of foreign exchange	(9		)	(30		)
Adjustment to prior year allocation (1)	(73		)	—
Ending balance	$	19,614		$	5,520

(1) The reduction of $0.1 million in 2017 resulted from a non-cash adjustment to the estimated purchase price allocation to inventory originally recorded in 2016.

Goodwill was tested for impairment in the fourth quarter of 2017 and no adjustment was deemed necessary.

Note 8 - Intangible assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

Amortization expense of $0.4 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million related to intangible assets was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

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Note 9 – Income Taxes

Income (loss) from operations before income taxes consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
United States	$	10,159		$	(708	)	$	3,583
Canada	(65		)	(823		)	(2,431		)
	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152

Provision (benefit) for income taxes from operations for the years ended December 31, consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	296		$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	129			(33		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	1,634		$	67		$	855
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,971	)	$	—		$	—
U.S. state	(3,257		)	31			—
Canada	—			—			—
Total	$	(21,228	)	$	31		$	—
Total income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,675	)	$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	(3,128		)	(2		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	(19,594	)	$	98		$	855

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The reconciliation between the effective income tax rate and the statutory federal rate for operations was as follows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Statutory federal rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
Change in valuation allowance - reversal	(210.5	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - federal tax rate change	(126.4	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - current period activity	(65.7	)	14.5		(86.4	)
Federal tax rate change	126.4		—		—
Foreign income inclusion	29.2		—		—
Change in uncertain tax positions	7.7		0.6		56.2
State and local taxes, net	4.7		(17.4	)	10.4
Alternative minimum tax	3.6		(6.3	)	7.6
Meals & entertainment	1.4		(9.0	)	11.6
Executive life insurance	0.9		(3.1	)	2.4
Provision to return differences	(0.7	)	(4.5	)	24.4
Captive insurance income	0.3		(3.0	)	—
Foreign tax rate differential	0.1		(14.3	)	17.9
Other items, net	(0.1	)	1.1		(4.9	)
Provision for income taxes (benefit)	(194.1	)%	(6.4	)%	74.2	%

The Company paid income taxes of $0.3 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively. At December 31, 2017, the Company had $28.8 million of U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards which are subject to expiration beginning in 2030 and $23.4 million of various state net operating loss carryforwards which expire at varying dates through 2034.

In the second quarter of 2017, the Company increased its deferred tax assets and related valuation allowance by $7.6 million that may arise from future settlement of uncertain tax positions in Canada. There was no impact to the Company's consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, balance sheets or statements of cash flows, as at the time the Company had valuation allowances equal to the value of the deferred tax assets. That amount was reduced to $4.6 million as of December 31, 2017 primarily as a result of the lower U.S. federal rate.

Primarily due to the cumulative losses that were incurred over several years, management determined in 2012 that it was more likely than not that the company would not be able to utilize its deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Valuation allowances ("VA’s") were recorded against virtually all the gross deferred tax assets at that time. At each reporting date since 2012, Lawson management has considered new evidence, both positive and negative, that could impact management’s view with regard to the realization of its deferred tax assets and the reversal of the corresponding valuation allowances. If the company was able to demonstrate that it can consistently generate income it may lead to a determination that there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that the company will be able to utilize its deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income.

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Certain valuation allowances mostly pertaining to the deferred tax assets related to our foreign operations will remain. The Company will continue to monitor all positive and negative evidence related to the remaining valuation of deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis.

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The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was enacted into law on December 22, 2017. Among its provisions, the law reduced the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective January 1, 2018, requiring the Company to re-measure its net U.S. deferred tax assets to reflect the reduction in the tax rate. The impact of the change resulted in a reduction to deferred tax assets of $12.6 million offset by the same decrease in the valuation allowance. The income tax benefit recorded in 2017 of $19.6 million was primarily the result of the valuation allowance reversal of $21.2 million recorded at December 31, 2017.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also requires that a US shareholder of a specified foreign corporation ("SFC") to include in gross income, at the end of the SFC’s last tax year beginning before January 1, 2018, the US shareholder’s pro-rata share of certain of the SFC’s undistributed and previously untaxed post-1986 foreign earnings and profits ("E&P"). The U.S. shareholder’s income inclusion is taxed at an effective U.S. federal income tax rate of either 15.5% or 8%. The 15.5% rate applies to the extent that the SFC’s hold cash and certain other assets, and the 8% rate applies to the extent the income inclusion exceeds the foreign cash position. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company utilized $8.4 million of net operating losses to offset its E&P.

The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") recently issued SAB 118 (Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act) which allows registrants to record provisional amounts during a measurement period. The SAB allows a company to recognize provisional amounts when it does not have the necessary information prepared in reasonable detail to calculate the effect of the change in tax law. Per the SAB, a company should report provisional amounts when the accounting is not complete, but for which a reasonable estimate can be determined. Lawson has included in its 2017 taxable income calculation a provisional amount of approximately $8.4 million representing previously untaxed foreign earnings and profits. The Company will not accrue any federal income tax on this amount as the company is able to utilize federal net operating losses to offset the income.

As a result of acquisitions completed in 2017, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded $19.6 million of tax deductible goodwill that may result in a tax benefit in future periods.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities contain the following temporary differences:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward	$	12,120		$	17,518
Compensation and benefits	7,828			12,126
Inventory reserve	1,689			2,750
Capital loss carryforward	1,326			2,210
Accounts receivable reserve	130			183
Other	1,155			1,770
Total deferred tax assets	24,248			36,557
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets	3,115			—
Property, plant and equipment	41			433
Other	403			688
Total deferred liabilities	3,559			1,121
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	20,689			35,436
Valuation allowance	(2,556		)	(35,416		)
Net deferred tax assets	$	18,133		$	20

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A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Balance at beginning of year	$	3,249	$	3,136
Additions for tax positions of current year	865		544
Additions for tax positions of prior years	141		116
Reductions for tax positions of prior year	—		(547		)
Balance at end of year	$	4,255	$	3,249

The recognition of the unrecognized tax benefits would have a favorable effect on the effective tax rate. Due to the uncertainty of both timing and resolution of income tax examinations, the Company is unable to determine whether any amounts included in the December 31, 2017 balance of unrecognized tax benefits represent tax positions that could significantly change during the next twelve months. The unrecognized tax benefits are recorded as a component of Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recorded as a component of income tax expense.

The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and foreign jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2017, the Company was subject to U.S federal income tax examinations for the years 2014 through 2016 and income tax examinations from various other jurisdictions for the years 2011 through 2016.

Note 10 - Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other liabilities consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Accrued compensation	$	9,044	$	5,465
Accrued stock-based compensation (stock performance rights)	8,712		7,859
Accrued and withheld taxes, other than income taxes	1,136		1,149
Financing lease obligation	1,123		996
Accrued profit sharing	894		627
Accrued health benefits	657		676
Accrued severance	483		1,428
Other	10,991		9,089
	$	33,040	$	27,289

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Note 11 – Loan Agreements

Lawson Loan Agreement

In 2012, the Company entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with CIBC Bank USA, formerly known as The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The Loan Agreement consists of a $40.0 million revolving line of credit facility, which includes a $10.0 million sub-facility for letters of credit. Certain terms of the original Loan Agreement were revised in December 2013 and in September 2016. The Loan Agreement, as amended, expires in August 2020. Due to the lock box arrangement and a subjective acceleration clause contained in the Loan Agreement, any outstanding borrowings under the revolving line of credit are classified as a current liability.

Credit available under the Loan Agreement is based upon:

a) 85% of the face amount of the Company’s eligible accounts receivable, generally less than 60 days past due, and

b) the lesser of 60% of the lower of cost or market value of the Company’s eligible inventory, generally inventory expected to be sold within 18 months, or $20.0 million.

The applicable interest rates for borrowings are the Prime rate or, if the Company elects, the LIBOR rate plus 1.50% to 1.85% based on the Company’s debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined in the amended Loan Agreement. The Loan Agreement is secured by a first priority perfected security interest in substantially all existing assets of the Company. Dividends are restricted so as not to exceed $7.0 million annually.

At December 31, 2017, the Company had $13.6 million outstanding balance under its revolving line of credit facility and additional borrowing availability of $22.8 million. The carrying amount of the Company’s debt at December 31, 2017 approximates its fair value. The Company paid interest of $0.6 million, $0.2 million and $0.5 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The weighted average interest rate was 3.2% in 2017. The Company had $1.7 million of outstanding letters of credit as of December 31, 2017.

In addition to other customary representations, warranties and covenants, and if the excess capacity is below $10.0 million, the Company is required to meet a minimum trailing twelve month EBITDA to fixed charges ratio, as defined in the amended Loan Agreement. On December 31, 2017, the Company's borrowing capacity exceeded $10.0 million, therefore, the Company was not subject to these financial covenants, however, for informational purposes the results of the financial covenant is provided below:

Quarterly Financial Covenants	Requirement	Actual
EBITDA to fixed charges ratio	1.10 : 1.00	3.62 : 1.00

The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of December 31, 2017.

Commitment Letter

Bolt has a Commitment Letter with BMO Bank of Montreal ("BMO") dated March 30, 2017 which allows Bolt to access up to $5.5 million Canadian dollars in the form of either an overdraft facility or as commercial letters of credit. The Commitment Letter is cancellable at any time at BMOs sole discretion and is secured by substantially all of Bolt’s assets. It carries an interest rate of the bank's prime rate plus 0.25%. At December 31, 2017, Bolt had $1.2 million Canadian dollars of outstanding borrowings and remaining borrowing availability of $4.3 million Canadian dollars. The Commitment Letter is subject to a working capital ratio of 1.35:1, a maximum ratio of debt to tangible net worth of 2.5:1 of the Bolt assets and Debt Service Coverage Ratio 1.25:1 as defined in the Commitment Letter. At December 31, 2017, Bolt was in compliance with all covenants which are subject to periodic review, at least annually, with the next review due by August 31, 2018.

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Note 12 – Reserve for Severance

Severance costs are primarily related to management realignment and reorganization. The table below reflects the activity in the Company’s reserve for severance and related payments.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Beginning balance	$	1,710		$	697		$	311
Charged to earnings	738			2,376			1,273
Cash paid	(1,965		)	(1,363		)	(887		)
Ending balance	$	483		$	1,710		$	697

The remaining severance liabilities outstanding as of December 31, 2017 will be paid by the end of 2018, and are included in Accrued expenses and other liabilities on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Note 13 - Retirement and Security Bonus Plans

The Company provides a 401(k) defined contribution plan to allow employees a pre-tax investment vehicle to save for retirement. The Company made contributions to the 401(k) plan of $3.1 million, $3.1 million and $2.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The Company provides a profit sharing plan for certain sales, office and warehouse employees. The amounts of the Company’s annual contributions are determined annually by the Board of Directors. Expenses incurred for the profit sharing plan were $0.9 million, $0.6 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The Company has a security bonus plan which was previously created for the benefit of its independent sales representatives, under the terms of which participants are credited with a percentage of their annual net commissions. The aggregate amounts credited to participants’ accounts vest 25% after five years, and an additional 5% vests each year thereafter upon qualification for the plan. On January 1, 2013, the Company converted all of its U.S. independent sales representatives to employees. The security bonus for those converted employees continue to vest, but their accounts are no longer credited with a percentage of net commissions. For financial reporting purposes, amounts are charged to operations over the vesting period. Expenses incurred for the security bonus plan were $0.5 million, $0.4 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The security bonus plan is partially funded by a $4.5 million investment in the cash surrender value in life insurance of certain employees. Of the $13.2 million total liability, $0.2 million is classified as a current liability and the remaining $13.0 million is classified as long-term.

Bolt provides its employees with a Registered Retirement Savings Plan ("RRSP") which is a tax deferred defined contribution retirement investment. Bolt contributes 4.0% of the employees pre-tax compensation. In the three months they were owned by Lawson, Bolt contributed $42 thousand to the RRSP.

Note 14 - Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Commitments

Total rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 amounted to $2.6 million, $2.2 million and $2.0 million, respectively. Of the $13.9 million future minimum operating lease commitments outstanding at December 31, 2017, $6.4 million relates to a lease for the Company's headquarters which expires in March 2023. The lease commitment is partially offset by a portion of the headquarters that has been sub-leased through March 2023 and includes total future minimum lease proceeds of $0.5 million.

The Company has a financing lease for the McCook Facility which expires in June 2022 and includes future minimum lease payments, related to the building, of $6.2 million.

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The Company’s future minimum lease commitments, principally for facilities and equipment, as of December 31, 2017, were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31,	Operating   Leases		Financing   Lease		Capital Leases
2018	$	2,910	$	1,348	$	169
2019	2,590		1,395		112
2020	2,464		1,444		72
2021	2,451		1,493		36
2022	2,255		542		—
Thereafter	1,202		—		—
Total	$	13,872	$	6,222	$	389

At December 31, 2017, the cost and accumulated depreciation of the asset related to the financing lease were $13.0 million and $7.2 million, respectively, and the cost and accumulated amortization of the assets related to capital leases were $0.8 million and $0.4 million, respectively.

Litigation, regulatory and tax matters

  The Company is involved in legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. It is the opinion of management that the resolution of any currently pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 

Environmental matter

In 2012, the Company identified that a site it owns in Decatur, Alabama contains hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater as a result of historical operations prior to the Company's ownership. The Company retained an environmental consulting firm to further investigate the contamination including the measurement and monitoring of the site. In August 2013, the site was enrolled in Alabama's voluntary cleanup program. On October 30, 2014, the Company received estimates from its environmental consulting firm for three potential remediation solutions. The estimates included a range of viable remedial approaches. The first solution included limited excavation and removal of the contaminated soil along with an extensive monitoring period. The second solution included the first solution plus the installation of a groundwater extraction system. The third scenario included the first and second solutions plus treatment injections to reduce the degradation time. The estimated expenditures over the life of the three scenarios ranged from $0.3 million to $1.4 million. As the Company had determined that a loss was probable and no scenario was more likely than the other at that time, a liability in the amount of $0.3 million was established in 2014.

During 2015, after further evidence had been collected and analyzed, the Company concluded that it was probable that future remediation would be required, and accordingly accrued an additional $0.9 million for the estimated costs.

In 2017 the Company received estimates from its environmental consulting firm for two new remediation solutions based on a chemical injection process. The first solution would consist of chemical injections throughout the entire site to directly eliminate the hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater. The second solution would consist of chemical injections around the perimeter of the site to prevent the migration of the hazardous chemicals off-site. Neither solution would require additional excavation or repairs to be made to the property. Additionally, the estimated required monitoring period would be substantially reduced. The estimated expenditures over an 18 month period under the two injection scenarios ranged from $0.9 million to $2.0 million. The Company does not expect to capitalize any amounts related to these remediation options.

The Company has determined that it will initially proceed with the method of injecting chemicals around the perimeter of the site to prevent the migration of the hazardous chemicals off-site. As of December 31, 2017, approximately $1.0 million remains accrued for this remediation in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. This estimate was based on the information provided to date and as the remediation efforts proceed, additional information may impact the final cost. As of December 31, 2017, agreement with Alabama’s voluntary cleanup program on viable treatment of the property

47

has not yet been reached and the Company continues to evaluate potential remediation alternatives that could impact the ultimate cost of remediation.

Note 15 – Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Plan Administration

The Company's Amended and Restated 2009 Equity Compensation Plan (“Equity Plan”) provides for the grant of nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock awards and stock units to officers and employees of the Company. The Equity Plan also provides for the grant of option rights and restricted stock to non-employee directors. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had approximately 140,000 shares of common stock still available under the Equity Plan with no participant allowed a grant of more than 40,000 shares of common stock in any calendar year. The Equity Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, or its designee, which as administrator of the plan, has the authority to select plan participants, grant awards, and determine the terms and conditions of the awards.

The Company also has a Stock Performance Rights Plan (“SPR Plan”) that provides for the issuance of Stock Performance Rights (“SPRs”) that allow non-employee directors, officers and key employees to receive cash awards, subject to certain restrictions, equal to the appreciation of the Company's common stock. The SPR Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.

Stock Performance Rights

SPRs entitle the recipient to receive a cash payment equal to the excess of the market value of the Company's common stock over the SPR exercise price when the SPRs are surrendered. Expense, equal to the fair market value of the SPR at the date of grant and remeasured each reporting period, is recorded ratably over the vesting period. Compensation expense or benefit is included in General and administrative expense. A majority of the outstanding SPRs have a seven to ten year life and vest over one to three years beginning on the first anniversary of the date of the grant.

On December 31, 2017, the SPRs outstanding were re-measured at fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This model requires the input of subjective assumptions that may have a significant impact on the fair value estimate. The weighted-average estimated value of SPRs outstanding as of December 31, 2017 was $9.83 per SPR using the following assumptions:

Expected volatility	20.5% to 44.2%
Risk-free rate of return	1.2% to 2.2%
Expected term (in years)	0.1 to 4.5
Expected annual dividend	$0

The expected volatility was based on the historic volatility of the Company's stock price commensurate with the expected life of the SPR. The risk-free rate of return reflects the interest rate offered for zero coupon treasury bonds over the expected life of the SPR. The expected life represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding and was calculated using the simplified method allowed by the SEC due to insufficient historical data. The estimated annual dividend was based on the recent dividend payout trend.

Compensation expense of $1.2 million, $1.2 million and $0.9 million was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Cash in the amount of $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $1.0 million was paid out for SPR exercises in 2017, 2016 and 2015. A liability of $8.7 million reflecting the estimated fair value of future pay-outs has been included as a component of Accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets.

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Activity related to the Company’s SPRs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of SPRs		Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	946,701		$	19.60
Granted	78,948		25.12
Exercised	(34,095	)	12.99
Cancelled	(30,000	)	36.71
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	961,554		9.76
Exercisable on December 31, 2017	702,438		$	17.66

The SPRs outstanding had an intrinsic value of $6.3 million as of December 31, 2017. Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested SPRs was $1.7 million at December 31, 2017, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. During the year ended December 31, 2017, 152,232 SPRs with a fair value of $0.8 million vested. At December 31, 2017, the weighted average remaining contractual term was 4.7 years for all outstanding SPRs and 4.4 years for all exercisable SPRs.

Restricted Stock Awards

Restricted stock awards ("RSAs") generally vest over a one to three year period beginning on the first anniversary of the date of the grant. Upon vesting, the vested restricted stock awards are exchanged for an equal number of the Company’s common stock. The participants have no voting or dividend rights with the restricted stock awards. The restricted stock awards are valued at the closing price of the common stock on the date of grant and the expense is recorded ratably over the vesting period.

Compensation expense of $0.9 million, $0.6 million and $0.6 million related to the RSAs was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Activity related to the Company’s RSAs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Restricted Stock Awards
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	31,897
Granted	104,920
Exchanged for shares	(31,897	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	104,920

As of December 31, 2017, there was $1.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to RSAs that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. The awards granted in 2017 had a weighted average grant date fair value of $22.73 per share.

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Market Stock Units

Market Stock Units ("MSUs") are exchangeable for between 0% to 150% of the Company's common shares at the end of the vesting period based on the trailing 60 day average closing price of the Company's common stock. The value of the MSUs was determined using a geometric brownian motion model that, based on certain variables, generates a large number of random trials simulating the price of the common stock over the measurement period. Expense of $0.9 million, $0.5 million and $0.5 million related to MSUs was recorded in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Activity related to the Company’s MSUs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Market Stock Units		Maximum Shares Potentially Issuable
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	149,532		224,298
Granted	98,243		147,365
Cancelled	(25,839	)	(38,759	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	221,936		332,904

Stock Options

Each stock option can be exchanged for one share of the Company’s common stock at the stated exercise price. Activity related to stock options during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Stock Options		Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	45,910		26.55
Granted	40,000		27.01
Exercised	(1,434	)	14.04
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	84,476		26.98

Expense related to stock options was $0.2 million in 2017 and unrecognized compensation at December 31, 2017 was $0.1 million.

Stock Awards

During 2017, 40,000 stock awards were exercised resulting in the issuance of 23,042 common shares. At December 31, 2017, no stock awards remained outstanding.

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Note 16 – Segment Information

With the acquisition of Bolt in 2017, the Company now operates in two reportable segments. The businesses were determined to be separate reportable segments because of differences in their financial characteristics and the methods they employ to deliver product to customers. The operating segments are reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker responsible for reviewing operating performance and allocating resources. The Lawson segment primarily relies on its large network of sales representatives to visit the customer at the customers' work location and provide VMI service and produce sales orders for product that is then shipped to the customer. The Bolt segment primarily sells product to customers when the customers visit one of Bolt's 13 branch locations and the product is delivered to the customers at the spot of sale.

Financial information for the Company's reportable segments follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Net sales
Lawson	$	297,953		$	276,573		$	275,834
Bolt	7,954			—			—
Consolidated total	$	305,907		$	276,573		$	275,834
Gross profit
Lawson	$	179,578		$	168,062		$	169,124
Bolt	3,440			—			—
Consolidated total	$	183,018		$	168,062		$	169,124
Operating Income (loss)
Lawson	$	3,958		$	(1,457	)	$	3,052
Bolt	556			—			—
Gain on sale of property	5,422			—			—
Environmental remediation expense	—			—			(931		)
Consolidated total	9,936			(1,457		)	2,121
Interest expense	(622		)	(496		)	(766		)
Other income (expense), net	780			422			(203		)
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152
Capital expenditures
Lawson	$	1,251		$	3,112		$	2,342
Bolt	5			—			—
Consolidated total	$	1,256		$	3,112		$	2,342
Depreciation and amortization
Lawson	$	6,486		$	8,066		$	8,543
Bolt	284			—			—
Consolidated total	$	6,770		$	8,066		$	8,543
Total assets
Lawson	$	161,076		$	135,307		$	133,094
Bolt	38,423			—			—
Intercompany note receivable	(8,832		)	—			—
Consolidated total	$	190,667		$	135,307		$	133,094

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Financial information related to the Company’s continuing operations by geographic area follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Net sales (1)
United States	$	266,994	$	250,824	$	251,129
Canada	38,913		25,749		24,705
Consolidated total	$	305,907	$	276,573	$	275,834
Long-lived assets (2)
United States	$	24,686	$	30,041	$	33,813
Canada	34,322		7,425		242
Consolidated total	$	59,008	$	37,466	$	34,055

(1)    Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of customers.

(2)    Long-lived assets primarily consist of property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangibles and other assets.

Note 17 - Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations

Unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized below:

	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2017 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	80,633		$	75,651	$	75,006	$	74,617
Gross profit	$	46,993		$	46,005	$	45,141	$	44,879
Net income	$	20,237		$	1,321	$	7,273	$	857
Basic income per share of common stock	$	2.28		$	0.15	$	0.82	$	0.10
Diluted income per share of common stock (1)	$	2.21		$	0.14	$	0.80	$	0.09
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2016 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	67,315		$	70,199	$	69,348	$	69,711
Gross profit	$	40,504		$	42,573	$	42,526	$	42,459
Net income (loss)	$	(4,643	)	$	1,825	$	172	$	1,017
Basic income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.21	$	0.02	$	0.12
Diluted income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.20	$	0.02	$	0.11

(1) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts may not equal the total annual earnings per share due to rounding and the uneven timing of earnings throughout the year compared to the weighted average shares outstanding.

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Lawson Products, Inc.

Schedule II -Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

The roll forward of valuation accounts were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Description	Balance at Beginning of Period		Charged to Costs and Expenses			Deductions				Balance at End of Period
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended December 31, 2017	$	454	$	499		$	(477	)	(1)	$	476
Year ended December 31, 2016	543		361			(450		)	(1)	454
Year ended December 31, 2015	733		353			(543		)	(1)	543
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets:
Year ended December 31, 2017	$	35,416	$	(32,860	)	$	—			$	2,556
Year ended December 31, 2016	36,516		(1,100		)	—				35,416
Year ended December 31, 2015	36,675		(159		)	—				36,516

(1) Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries and translation adjustments.

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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

Under the supervision and with the participation of our senior management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as of the end of the period covered by this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”). Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded as of the Evaluation Date that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective such that (i) the information relating to Lawson, including our consolidated subsidiaries, required to be disclosed in our SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and (ii) include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

54

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate system of internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, for Lawson Products, Inc. (the “Company”).  This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

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

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements and even when determined to be effective, can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.  Also, projection of any evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods is subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017.  In making this evaluation, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission “Internal Control – Integrated Framework” (2013).  Based on this assessment, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2017. The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, BDO USA, LLP, has audited and issued a report on the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting as set forth in this annual report.

The Company is in the process of integrating The Bolt Supply House Ltd. ("Bolt"), which was acquired on October 3, 2017, into its overall internal control over financial reporting. Management elected to exclude the internal controls of Bolt from its assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting for the year ended December 31, 2017, as permitted by the SEC's interpretive guidance. Bolt constituted 20% and 37% of total assets and net assets, respectively, as of December 31, 2017, and 3% and 1% of revenues and net income, respectively, for the year then ended.

55

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Shareholders and Board of Directors

Lawson Products, Inc.

Chicago, Illinois

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited Lawson Products, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the “COSO criteria”). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes and schedule and our report dated February 22, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’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 Item 9A, Management’s 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. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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 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.

As indicated in the accompanying Item 9A, Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of The Bolt Supply House Ltd., which was acquired on October 3, 2017, and which is included in the consolidated balance sheet of the Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2017, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the year then ended. The Bolt Supply House Ltd. constituted 20% and 37% of total assets and net assets, respectively, as of December 31, 2017, and 3% and 1% of revenues and net income, respectively, for the year then ended. Management did not assess the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of The Bolt Supply House Ltd. because of the timing of the acquisition which was completed on October 3, 2017. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of the Company also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

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.

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

/s/BDO USA, LLP

Chicago, IL

February 22, 2018

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Changes in Internal Controls

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION.

None

PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.

a.    Directors

The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018, under the caption “Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

b.    Executive Officers

The information required by this Item is set forth under the caption Item 1 — Business under “Executive Officers of the Registrant.”

c.    Audit Committee

Information on the Company’s Audit Committee is contained under the caption “Board of Directors Meetings and Committees” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The Board of Directors has determined that Thomas Postek, member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in Item 407(d)(5)(ii) of Regulation S-K, and that Mr. Postek is “independent” as the term is defined in the listing standards of the NASDAQ Global Select Market.

d.    Code of Business Conduct

The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct applicable to all employees and sales representatives. The Company’s Code of Business Conduct is applicable to senior financial executives including the principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer of the Company. The Company’s Code of Business Conduct is available on the Corporate Governance page in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.lawsonproducts.com. The Company intends to post on its website any amendments to, or waivers from its Code of Business Conduct applicable to senior financial executives. The Company will provide any persons with a copy of its Code of Business Conduct without charge upon written request directed to the Company’s Secretary at the Company’s address.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018, under the caption “Remuneration of Executive Officers,” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018 under the caption “Securities Beneficially Owned by Principal Stockholders and Management” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table provides information as of December 31, 2017 regarding the number of shares of common stock that were available for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans which are described in greater detail in Note 14 in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Plan category	Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights (1)	Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights (1) (2)	Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in the first column)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders	522,300	$26.98	140,244
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders	—	—	—
Total	522,300	$26.98	140,244

(1) Includes potential common stock issuance of 104,920 from restricted stock awards, 332,904 from market stock units and 84,476 from stock options.

(2) Weighted-average exercise price of 84,476 stock options.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.

The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018 under the caption “Election of Directors” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.

The information required under this Item is set forth in the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 15, 2018 under the caption “Fees Paid to Independent Auditors” which information is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

59

Lawson Products, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS,  FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.

(a)    (1)    See Index to Financial Statements in Item 8 on page 26.

(2)    See Schedule II in Item 8 on page 53.

(3)    Exhibits:

Exhibit Number	Description of Exhibit
2.1	Share Purchase Agreement dated October 3, 2017 between the Company and John J. McCann and 1701017 Alberta Ltd. and John McCann Family Trust and The Gideon Trust and Prairie Merchant Corporation and W. Brett Wilson incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 3, 2017.
3.1	Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988.
3.2	Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 20, 2009.
10.1*	Amended and Restated Executive Deferral Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(7) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995.
10.2*	Lawson Products, Inc. Stock Performance Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(8) to the Company’' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000.
10.3*	Form Letter regarding Stock Performance Rights, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c)(16) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004.
10.4*	Lawson Products, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 13, 2008.
10.5*	Form of Indemnification Agreement for Directors and Officers incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 15, 2008.
10.6*	Form of Amended and Restated Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 12, 2009.
10.7	Loan and Security Agreement dated August 8, 2012 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 8, 2012.
10.8*	Employment Agreement dated as of August 29, 2012 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Neil E. Jenkins, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 29, 2012.
10.9*	Employment Agreement dated as of August 29, 2012 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Ron Knutson, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 29, 2012.
10.10	First Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated September 25, 2013 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 25, 2013.

60

Lawson Products, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

10.11	Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated December 20, 2013 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 20, 2013.
10.12	Third Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated February 14, 2013 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 14, 2014.
10.13	Real Estate Sales Contract and Escrow Instructions dated May 12, 2014 between the Company and KTR Property Trust III incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 12, 2014.
10.14	Agreement of Lease dated June 30, 2014 between the Company and KTR Property Trust III incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 2014.
10.15*	Employment Agreement dated as of January 12, 2015 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Michael G. DeCata, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 12, 2015.
10.16*	Award Agreement dated as of January 12, 2015 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Michael G. DeCata, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 12, 2015.
10.15	Consent to Loan and Security Agreement dated September 30, 2015 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K dated December 31, 2015.
10.18*	Change in Control Agreement effective October 16, 2015 by and between the Company and Shane McCarthy, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 16, 2015.
10.19	Consent to Loan and Security Agreement dated March 7, 2016 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company.
10.20	Fourth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated April 11, 2016 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 11, 2016.
10.21	Fifth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated June 30, 2016 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 30, 2016.
10.22	Sixth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated September 30, 2016 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 30, 2016.
10.23	Seventh Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated February 14, 2017 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 14, 2017.
10.24	Eighth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated March 30, 2017 between the Company and The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 30, 2017.
10.25 *	Employment Agreement dated as of August 14, 2017 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Michael G. DeCata, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 14, 2017.
10.26 *	Award Agreement dated as of August 14, 2017 by and between Lawson Products, Inc., an Illinois corporation, and Michael G. DeCata, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 14, 2017.

61

Lawson Products, Inc.

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

10.27	Consent and Ninth Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement dated October 2, 2017 between the Company and CIBC Bank USA formerly known as The PrivateBank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 3, 2017.
10.28	Commitment Letter dated as of March 30, 2017 between The Bolt Supply House Ltd. and BMO Bank of Montreal.
21	Subsidiaries of the Company.
23	Consent of BDO USA, LLP.
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32	Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS	XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

* Indicates management employment contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements.

62

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.

LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC
By:	/s/ Michael G. DeCata
	Michael G. DeCata
	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
	(principal executive officer)
	Date:	February 22, 2018

By:	/s/ Ronald J. Knutson
	Ronald J. Knutson
	Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Controller
	(principal financial and accounting officer)
	Date:	February 22, 2018

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below this 22nd day of February, 2018, by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

Signature	Title
/s/ Ronald B. Port	Chairman of the Board
Ronald B. Port
/s/ Andrew B. Albert	Director
Andrew B. Albert
/s/ I. Steven Edelson	Director
I. Steven Edelson
/s/ James S. Errant	Director
James S. Errant
/s/ Lee S. Hillman	Director
Lee S. Hillman
/s/ J. Bryan King	Director
J. Bryan King
/s/ Thomas S. Postek	Director
Thomas S. Postek
/s/ Wilma J. Smelcer	Director
Wilma J. Smelcer

63

EX-10.28

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

Bank of Montreal ("BMO") is pleased to advise that it has authorized the following credit facility for The Bolt Supply House Ltd. on the terms and conditions outlined in this Commitment Letter. The Schedules listed below and attached form part of this Commitment Letter.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Commitment Letter, any Advance under any Facility hereunder will be made at BMO's sole discretion. Any unutilized portion of any Facility hereunder may be cancelled by BMO at any time without prior notice.

Borrower:The Bolt Supply House Ltd.(the "Borrower")

Lender: BMO Bank of Montreal (the "Bank")

A. CREDIT FACILITIES:

FACILITY #1:CDN DOLLAR MASTERLINE FACILITY

Amount:Maximum $5,500,000

Repayment:From Business receipts.

Availability:To be available in any combination of the following borrowing options

Margin: The availability of funds under the following utilizations is subject to a maximum, on a forward margin basis of 75% of the Bank's valuation of assigned / hypothecated accounts receivable after deducting accounts receivable 61 days or more past due, accounts in dispute, inter company accounts, and the value of any prior ranking claim plus 50% of the Bank's valuation of assigned / hypothecated inventory which is free and clear, excluding work in process, consignment inventory or inventory subject to any prior charge or claim

(a)CDN DOLLAR OVERDRAFT FACLITY

Account #:0512-1040538

Purpose:For operating purposes

Amount:Maximum $5,500,000

Repayment:From Business receipts.

Interest:BMO Bank of Montreal Prime plus 0.25% floating, payable^-monthly in arrears.

Prime Rate means the floating annual rate of interest established from time to time by the BMO

Bank of Montreal as the reference rate it will use to determine rates of interest on Canadian dollar

loans to customers in Canada. Prime rate is presently 2.70%

Fees:$500 fixed fee per month including standard service charges based on account activity.

(b)COMMERCIAL LETTERS OF CREDIT

Purpose:To cover issuance of commercial letters of credit to various suppliers for purchase of inventory

Amount:Maximum $5,500,000

Availability:USD and/or CDN dollars

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

Term:	Letters of credit are restricted to terms of one year or less and are to contain a 30 day cancellation clause in each instance Commissions payable quarterly in advance at 0.1% per month (1.2% per annum) of part thereof subject to a mirk $50 charge.
Pricing;

FACILITY #2SETTLEMENT RISK

Amount:$1,000,000

Purpose:To facilitate payroll Electronic Funds Transfer "EFT".

B. GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Reporting:The following reports are to be provided to the Bank within 120 days of the Borrower's year end;

1.Audited year-end financial statements of The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

2.Confirmation of Fire Insurance renewal.

3.Current Accounts Receivable listing

4.Current Accounts Payable listing

5.Current Inventory listing

In addition, the following reports are to be provided monthly to the Bank within 25 days of each month end:

1. Aged listing of outstanding accounts receivable identifying accounts in dispute, inter-company accounts, and the value of any prior ranking claims as identified by the client

2 A valuation of inventory excluding inventory held on a consignment basis, and identification by the client of all inventory subject to a prior charge or claim in favour of a creditor other than the Bank.

Financial Covenants: The following financial covenants are to be tested in conjunction with the annual review based on the company financials provided. A breach fee of $200 per day per occurrence applies if in breach until the covenant is again in compliance per Bank established terms and conditions and may be requested in writing from BMO for client to inject funds to remedy.

1. Working capital ratio is defined as current assets divided by current liabilities (as defined by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) to be a minimum of 1.35:1. (PRESENTLY) Measured on the basis of Annual financial statements. Intangible assets as determined by the Bank are to be excluded (i.e. Future Income Taxes, Due from Shareholders/Directors/Affiliated or Related Companies, etc.). Met fiscal 2016 - 1.98:1

2. Maximum ratio of Debt/Tangible Net Worth not to exceed 2.5:1. Total debt is defined by Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, excluding all debt formally subrogated to the Bank and Future Income Taxes. Tangible Net Worth is defined to include Share Capital, Retained Earnings and formally subrogated debt to the Bank and to exclude intangibles such as Leasehold improvements, Goodwill,- Shareholder Loan Receivables, Advances to and/or investments in affiliated companies, and any other intangibles at the Bank's discretion. To be tested annually based on audited year-end statements. Met fiscal 2016: Ratio was 0.81:1

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

3. The Borrower will maintain a minimum Debt Service Coverage Ratio of no less than 1.25:1

Met Fiscal 2016 - 1.31:1

· Debt Service Coverage: shall be determined by dividing Cash Flow Available for Debt Service, by Scheduled Debt Service Requirements

· Cash Flow Available for Debt Service: means the sum of the Borrower's net after tax income, plus depreciation/amortization expense, plus non-cash items, plus interest expenses, plus any after tax management bonus which is returned to the company in the form of subrogated shareholders' loans all of which shall be determined in accordance with GAAP.

· Scheduled Debt Service Requirements: means the aggregate of total interest expenses, capital lease payments and scheduled amortization or repayments of principal.

** Covenant breaches are subject to a $200 breach fee.

Security Held:

Annual Review:

1)Bank of Montreal documentation for current account authorities. 2)Overdraft lending agreement to support $5,500,000 in conjunction with Facility #1, subject (a) 3)General Security Agreement in 151 position over The Bolt Supply House Ltd. with a General Assignment of Booked Debts covering Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba with notice for registration under Section 427. 4)Assignment of Fire Insurance including standard mortgage clause showing Bank of Montreal as first loss payable The credit facilities are subject to periodic and at least annual review. The next credit review shall be due August 31, 2017 based on our reporting requirements. An annual review fee of $1,500 will be charged annually in concurrence with the review. The Borrower will be responsible, in addition to those fees outlined above, for the following: I) All legal costs including those of the Bank's solicitor, accounting and other professional fees, registry searches and registration fees for searching, preparing, execution and registration of all loan and security documentation. 2) All reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred by the Bank in connection with the establishment, administration and enforcement of the facility and the obtaining of applicable security.

Legal Fees & Related Costs:

C. BANKING SERVICES:

Deposit Accounts:The Borrower will maintain an active banking accounts with Bank of Montreal. All deposit accounts

will be subject to standard service charges.

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

Cash _Management: Various cash management banking services are available to enhance convenience, reduce operating costs, and earn interest on surplus funds. We would be pleased to outline these options for you at your convenience.

D. ACCEPTANCE:

Accepted this 30 day of March,2017.

THE BOLT SUPPLY HOUSE LTD.	BANK OF MONTREAL
/s/ Doug Drury	/s/ Matt Vandenbergh
Per: Vice-President, Finance	Matt Vandenbergh, Relationship Manager
	/s/ Jen Kirnbauer
Per:	Jen Kirnbauer, Commercial Account Advisor

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

Advance: Advances: Bankers' Acceptances SCHEDULE A DEFINITIONS Each use of the Facilities is an "Advance" and all such usages outstanding at any time are "Advances". Borrowing by the Borrower and any reference relating to the amount of Advances shall mean the sum of the principal amount of all outstanding Advances An instrument denominated in Canadian dollars, drawn by the Borrower and accepted by BMO in accordance with this Commitment Letter, and includes a "depository note" within the meaning of the Depository Bills and Notes Act (Canada) and a bill of exchange within the meaning of the Bills of Exchange Act (Canada). A stamping fee will be charged by BMO on each Advance evidenced by a Bankers' Acceptance.

Business Day:Any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which BMO is authorized or

required by applicable law in Calgary, AB to remain closed.

Capitalization:Senior Funded Debt plus shareholder's equity.

Card Services Interest Rate:Per Corporate MasterCard Agreement

Deferred Taxes:An account on a company's balance sheet that is a result of temporary differences

between the company's accounting and tax carrying values, the anticipated and enacted income tax rate, and estimated taxes payable for the current year. This liability may or may not be realized during any given year, which makes the deferred status appropriate.

Generally Accepted AccountingExcept as otherwise expressly provided herein, all terms of accounting or financial nature

Principles (GAAP):shall be construed in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time. All

calculations of the components of financial information for the purposes of determining compliance with the financial ratios and financial covenants contained herein shall be made on a basis consistent with GAAP in existence as at the date of the Commitment Letter and used in preparation of the consolidated financial statements of the Borrower [and Guarantor(s)]. Upon adoption by the Borrower [and Guarantor(s)] of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), or in event of a change in GAAP, the Borrower and [and Guarantor(s)] BMO shall negotiate in good faith to revise (if appropriate) such ratios and covenants to give effect to the intention of the parties under this Commitment Letter, and any new ratio or covenant shall be subject to the approval of BMO. In the event that such a negotiation is unsuccessful, all calculations thereafter made for the purpose of determining compliance with the financial ratios and financial covenants contained herein shall be made on a basis consistent with GAAP in existence as at the date of the Commitment Letter.

Government of Canada Bond Rate LIBOR Rate Benchmark bond yields published by the Bank of Canada based on mid-market closing yields of selected Government of Canada bond issues that mature approximately in the indicated terms. With respect to any 30, 60, 90, 180 or 360-day period, the annual rate of interest at which BMO, in accordance with its normal practice, would be prepared to offer deposits of U.S. dollars to leading banks in the London Interbank Market for delivery on the first day of the applicable period, with a maturity comparable to the applicable period, at approximately 11:00 a.m., (London, England time) two Business Days prior to the commencement of such period, where for the purpose of this definition "Business Days" do not include days which are not regular business days in London or in New York.

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

Mortgaged Property Means the real property described in the Mortgage, all appurtenances thereto and all estates and interests therein, and includes all buildings, plant, machinery, crops, erections and improvements, fixed or otherwise, present or future, built, grown, placed or put thereon including all fences, heating equipment, plumbing equipment, antennae, radiators, mirrors, air-conditioning equipment, ventilating equipment, fire alarm and protective systems, lighting and lighting fixtures, hay racks, barn fixtures, milking machine equipment, water tanks, pumps and windmills, water bowls and pipes, feed boxes, litter carriers and tracks, mobile homes affixed to the real property, furnaces, boilers, oil burners, stokers, water heating equipment, cooking and refrigeration equipment, window blinds, floor coverings, storm windows, storm doors, window screens, door screens, shutters and awnings, all apparatus and equipment appurtenant thereto, and all other fixtures and accessions of any kind or nature.

Mortgage Rate:Per annum interest rate determined and accrued daily and compounded semi-annually,

not in advance, on the outstanding balance of the loan.

Net Operating Income: For any fiscal year of the Borrower means the gross annual revenue actually received by the Borrower during such fiscal year from tenants pursuant to Leases, less the Borrower's operating expenses and management fees actually paid, and structural reserves, market vacancy allowance and had debt allowance taken or allowed for, in each case related to the Mortgaged Property during such fiscal year, each in an amount satisfactory to BMO based on reasonable industry standards but with no deduction for depreciation, amortization or interest expense.

Off Balance Sheet (OBS)An asset or debt or financing activity not on the company's balance sheet

Prime Rate: Tangible Net Worth: US Base Rate On any day, the annual rate of interest established by BMO and in effect on such day as the reference rate used to determine the rate of interest charged on Canadian dollar loans to commercial customers in Canada, and designated by BMO as its "Prime Rate". The book value of the shareholder's equity in the corporation plus loans made by the shareholders to the corporation that are assigned, postponed and subordinated in favour of BMO, less any goodwill, amounts due from officers and non-arm's-length entities, long term investments, leasehold improvements, future income tax, patents, or other such assets as are properly classified as "intangible", all as determined by BMO. On any day, the floating annual rate of interest established by BMO and in effect on such day as the reference rate used to determine the rate of interest charged on U.S. dollar loans to commercial customers in Canada, and designated by BMO as its "US Base Rate".

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

SCHEDULE B

GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Assignment: This Commitment Letter shall be binding upon and enure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and permitted assigns. The Borrower shall not assign any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of BMO. BMO may assign all or part of its rights or obligations under this Commitment Letter or in respect of any Facility or any Security to any person.

Confidentiality: The Borrower and each Guarantor agrees that, without the prior written consent of BMO, it shall not provide this Commitment Letter to, nor discuss the terms and structure of this offering with, any party other than its employees, lawyers and financial advisors (but not commercial lenders). The Borrower and each Guarantor consents to the release of information provided to BMO in connection with this Commitment Letter and the Facilities to BMO Financial Group business groups, affiliates and subsidiaries for the purpose of assisting BMO in supporting the Borrower with its strategic plans.

Conflicts: All terms and conditions of BMO's usual and customary security documents and supporting documents shall be deemed to be incorporated in and form part of this commitment. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between this Commitment Letter and the terms of any security or supporting document given in connection with this Commitment Letter, any Facility or the Security, the terms of the security or supporting documents shall prevail.

Entire Agreement; Waivers This Commitment Letter supersedes and replaces all prior discussions, and letters and agreements (if any) describing the

Severability; Amendments: terms and conditions of the facilities contained in this Commitment Letter. This Commitment Letter does not, however, serve to operate as a novation. To the extent necessary, BMO reserves all of its rights in respect of any security that has previously been granted to secure the obligations with respect to the Facilities. The failure of BMO to require performance by the Borrower or any Guarantor of any provision of this Commitment Letter shall in no way affect the right thereafter to enforce such provision; nor shall the waiver by BMO of any breach of any covenant, condition or proviso of this Commitment Letter be taken or held to be a waiver of any further breach of the same covenant, condition or proviso. If any provision of this Commitment Letter is determined to be invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, such invalidity or unenforceability shall attach only to such provision and the remainder of this Commitment Letter shall continue in full force and effect. No change or modification of this Commitment Letter is binding upon the parties unless it is in writing and signed by all parties.

Evidence of Debt: The Borrower acknowledges that the actual recording of the amount of any advance or repayment under the Facilities, and interest, fees and other amounts due in connection with the Facilities, in the accounts of the Borrower maintained by BMO, shall constitute prima facie evidence of the Borrower's indebtedness and liability from time to time under this Commitment Letter; provided that the obligation of the Borrower to pay or repay any indebtedness and liability in accordance with this Commitment Letter shall not be affected by the failure of BMO to make such recording

Expenses: All costs and expenses incurred by BMO in establishing, documenting and operating the Facilities (including, but not limited to, legal, appraisal and consulting fees and costs) and in connection with the enforcement of the loan doCumentation are for the account of the Borrower and the Borrower agrees to pay the same in full whether or not this transaction is completed as contemplated herein.

Holdbacks: In the event the Borrower fails to satisfy any condition hereunder which is required to be met prior to receiving any Advance under a Facility, BMO may, at its option and in its sole discretion, provide such Advance to the Borrower subject to a holdback of funds to address

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

such failure.

Increased Costs, Taxes, Risks, The Borrower will reimburse any costs BMO incurs in performing its obligations under the Facilities resulting from any

etc. change in law, including any reserve or special deposit requirement or any tax or capital requirement or any change in the compliance of BMO therewith, that has the effect of increasing the cost of funding to BMO or reducing the effective return on its capital. All loan repayments shall be made free and clear of any present and future taxes, withholdings or any other deductions. Upon the occurrence of any event which is deemed, in 13MO's sole discretion, to increase risk to BMO in respect of any Facility, BMO may review the pricing of any Facility.

Indemnification: The Borrower and each Guarantor jointly and severally agree to indemnify BMO from and against any and all losses, claims, damages and liabilities arising from activities under or contemplated under this Commitment Letter, any Facility or the Security other than those arising solely as a result of I3MO's gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

Joint and Several: Where more than one person is liable as Borrower or Guarantor for any obligation under or in connection with this Commitment Letter, then the liability of each such person for such obligation is joint and several with each other such person.

Language: It is the express wish of the parties that this agreement and any related documents be drawn up and executed in English. Les parties conviennent que la prosente convention et tous les documents s'y rattachant soient rediges et signs en anglais.

Review: BMO retains the right to review the Facilities at any time and at least annually.

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

SCHEDULE C

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO ADVANCES

- Signed Commitment Letter

- Evidence of corporate (or other) status and authority

Completion and registration (as applicable) of all Security (defined herein) and other supporting documents

- Completion of all facility documentation and account agreements and authorities, as applicable

- Compliance with all representations and warranties contained herein

- Compliance with all cotenants (financial and non-financial) contained herein No Event of Default (defined herein) shall have occurred and be continuing Compliance with all laws (including environmental)

- Payment of all fees and expenses

- Receipt of all necessary material governmental, regulatory and other third party approvals (including environmental approvals and certificates)

- Satisfactory due diligence (including, without limitation, anti-money laundering, proceeds of crime and "know your customer" requirements and procedures, environmental and insurance due diligence)

- Nothing shall have occurred since the date of the latest financial statements provided to BMO (Dated: Feb 29 2016 ) or after the date of

this Commitment Letter which would have a material adverse effect upon the business, operations or properties of the Borrower or any Guarantor, the rights and remedies of BMO, or the ability of the Borrower or any Guarantor to perform its obligations to BMO

- Repayment of all existing indebtedness (excluding permitted indebtedness)

- Satisfactory review by BMO (or, at BMO's option and the Borrower's expense, an insurance consultant) of insurance policies issued to the Borrower(s) and/or the Guarantor(s) and compliance with any changes required to satisfy BMO's insurance requirements

- Disclosure of all material contingent obligations

- Confirmation that no shares of the Borrower held by the principal shareholders have been pledged as security for any financial or other indebtedness

- Corporate taxes of the Borrower [and personal taxes of the principal shareholder] are to be confirmed current and up-to-date

- Satisfactory evidence that all other taxes payable by the Borrower [and Guarantor] (including, without limitation, GST, HST, sales tax, and withholdings) have been paid to date

- All Canadian bank accounts of the Borrower [and corporate Guarantors] are to be maintained with BMO Any other document or action which BMO may reasonably require

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

SCHEDULE D

COVENANTS

- Payment of all indebtedness due in connection with this Commitment Letter or any Facility

- Maintenance of corporate existence and status

- Payment of all taxes (including, without limitation, corporate, GST, FIST, sales tax and withholdings)

- Compliance with all laws, regulations and applicable permits or approvals (including health, safety and employment standards, labour codes and environmental laws)

- Compliance with all material agreements

- Maintenance of property and assets in good working condition

- Use of proceeds to be consistent with the approved purpose

- Notices of default, material litigation, and regulatory proceedings to be provided to BMO on a timely basis - Access by BMO to books and records; BMO to have right to inspect property to which its security applies

- No assumption of additional indebtedness or guarantee obligations by Borrower without prior written consent of BMO

- No liens or encumbrances on any assets except with the prior written consent of BMO

- No change of control or ownership of the Borrower or any Guarantor without the prior written consent of BMO

- No disposition of property or assets (except in the ordinary course of business) without the prior written consent of BMO

- No material judgments or material legal action initiated against the Borrower and/or any Guarantor(s) - No material acquisitions, hostile takeovers, mergers or amalgamations without BMO's prior written approval

- No financial assistance, investments, employee loans or affiliate transactions, except for those held at the date of this Commitment Letter and in amounts approved by BMO, and subject to ongoing compliance with the other covenants contained in this Commitment Letter

- No sale and leaseback transactions

- Borrower will not, without BMO's prior written consent, request or accept any prepayments of rent pursuant to any lease in connection with the Mortgaged Property except for the last month's rent

- Borrower will not charge any rent to any tenant of any part of the Mortgaged Property in excess of the amount of rent then permitted by applicable law

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

SCHEDULE E

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

- It has the corporate status, power and authority to enter into this Commitment Letter and any agreement executed in connection with a Facility or any Security to which it is a party, and to performs its obligations hereunder and thereunder

-It is in compliance with all applicable laws (including environmental laws) and its existing agreements

Except as otherwise disclosed to BMO in writing, no consent or approval of, registration or filing with, or any other action by, any governmental authority is required in connection with the execution, delivery and performance by it of this Commitment Letter and any agreement executed in connection with a Facility or any Security to which it is a party

- All factual information that has been provided to BMO for purposes of or in connection with this Commitment Letter or any

transaction contemplated herein is true and complete in all material respects on the date as of which such information is dated or certified

- Since December 31 2014, no event, development or circumstance has occurred that has had or could reasonably be expected

to have a material adverse effect on the business, assets, operations or condition, financial or otherwise, of the Borrower or any Guarantor

- There is no material litigation pending against it or, to its knowledge, threatened against or affecting it

- It has timely filed or caused to be filed all required tax returns and reports and has paid or caused to be paid all required taxes

- It has good and marketable title to its properties and assets

It has complied with all obligations in connection with any pension plan which it has sponsored, administered or contributed to, or is required to contribute to including, without limitation, registration in accordance with applicable laws, timely payment of all required contributions or premiums, and performance of all fiduciary and administration obligations

- It has ownership of and/or sufficient rights in any material intellectual property

- It maintains insurance policies and coverage that provides sufficient insurance coverage in at least such amounts and against at least such risks as are usually insured against in the same general area by persons in the same or a similar business

- It is not in default nor has any event or circumstance occurred which, but for the passage of time or the giving of notice, or

both, would constitute a default under any loan, credit or security agreement, or under any material instrument or agreement, to which it is a party

COMMITMENT LETTER

The Bolt Supply House Ltd.

Summary of Terms and Conditions

SCHEDULE F

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

- Failure to pay any interest, principal, fees or other amounts due in connection with this Commitment Letter or any of the Facilities

- Breach by the Borrower or any Guarantor of any covenant or agreement under or in connection with this Commitment Letter or any of the Facilities

- The occurrence of an event of default under any document executed in connection with a Facility or any of the Security

- Inaccurate or false representations or warranties made by the Borrower or any Guarantor under or in connection with this Commitment Letter

- The Commitment Letter or any document executed in connection therewith or in connection with a Facility or the Security is repudiated by the Borrower or any Guarantor or is no longer in force and effect

The Borrower or any Guarantor (i) becomes insolvent, (ii) is unable generally to pay its debts as they become due, (iii) makes a proposal in bankruptcy or files a notice of intention to make such a proposal, (iv) makes an assignment in bankruptcy, (v) brings a court action to have itself declared insolvent or bankrupt, or another person brings an action for such a declaration, or (vi) defaults under any payment obligation to another creditor or breaches any agreement with another creditor in respect of a payment obligation

- A material adverse change occurs in the financial condition, business, property or prospects of the Borrower or any Guarantor, as determined by HMO

- Change of ownership or control occurs without BMO's prior consent

A judgment is made against the Borrower or any Guarantor in excess of $0.01 by any court of competent jurisdiction and such judgment is not either (i) actively and diligently appealed and execution thereof stayed, or (ii) paid or otherwise satisfied, in each case within 30 days of the rendering of such judgment

EX-21

EXHIBIT 21

SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY

Name	Jurisdiction of Incorporation
Lawson Products, Inc.	Illinois
Lawson Products Canada Inc.	British Columbia, Canada
The Bolt Supply House Ltd.	Alberta, Canada

Subsidiaries, that in the aggregate are not considered significant to the consolidated results of the Company at the end of December 31, 2017, have been omitted

EX-23

EXHIBIT 23

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Lawson Products, Inc.

Chicago, Illinois

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Forms S-3 (No. 333-202169) and S-8 (No. 333-199243) of Lawson Products, Inc. of our reports dated February 22, 2018, relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule, and the effectiveness of Lawson Products, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting, which appear in this Form 10-K.

/s/ BDO USA, LLP

Chicago, Illinois

February 22, 2018

EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Michael G. DeCata, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Lawson Products, Inc. (the “registrant”);

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 22, 2018

/s/ Michael G. DeCata     

Michael G. DeCata

President and Chief Executive Officer

(principal executive officer)

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302

OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Ronald J. Knutson, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Lawson Products, Inc. (the “registrant”);

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, 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;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 22, 2018

/s/ Ronald J. Knutson    

Ronald J. Knutson

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,

Treasurer and Controller

(principal financial and accounting officer)

EX-32

EXHIBIT 32

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350 AS ADOPTED

PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

     In connection with the Annual Report of Lawson Products, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ending December 31, 2017 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company hereby certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 that based on their knowledge:

(1)  The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and

(2)  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company as of and for the periods covered in the Report.

February 22, 2018

/s / Michael G. DeCatal

Michael G. DeCata l

President and Chief Executive Officer

Lawson Products, Inc.

(principal executive officer)

/s/ Ronald J. Knutsonl

Ronald J. Knutson l

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,

Treasurer and Controller

Lawson Products, Inc.

(principal financial and accounting officer)

XML

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Jan. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	LAWSON PRODUCTS INC/NEW/DE/
Entity Central Index Key	0000703604
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 104,875,000
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		8,888,028

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 4,416	$ 10,421
Restricted cash	800	800
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $476 and $454, respectively	38,575	30,200
Inventories	50,928	42,561
Miscellaneous receivables and prepaid expenses	3,728	3,788
Total current assets	98,447	87,770
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization	27,333	30,907
Cash value of life insurance	11,964	10,051
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	11,813	844
Goodwill	19,614	5,520
Deferred income taxes	21,248	20
Other assets	248	195
Total assets	190,667	135,307
Current liabilities:
Revolving line of credit	14,543	841
Accounts payable	12,394	11,307
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	33,040	27,289
Total current liabilities	59,977	39,437
Security bonus plan	12,981	14,216
Financing lease obligation	6,420	7,543
Deferred compensation	5,476	4,830
Deferred rent liability	3,512	3,676
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent	3,115	0
Other liabilities	5,696	4,472
Total liabilities	97,177	74,174
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Authorized - 500,000 shares, Issued and outstanding - None	0	0
Authorized - 35,000,000 shares Issued – 8,921,302 and 8,864,929 shares, respectively Outstanding – 8,888,028 and 8,832,623 shares, respectively	8,921	8,865
Capital in excess of par value	13,005	11,055
Retained earnings	71,453	41,943
Treasury stock – 33,274 and 32,306 shares held, respectively	(711)	(691)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	822	(39)
Total stockholders’ equity	93,490	61,133
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 190,667	$ 135,307

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 476	$ 454
Preferred stock, par value	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 1.00	$ 1.00
Common stock, shares authorized	35,000,000	35,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	8,921,302	8,864,929
Common stock, shares outstanding	8,888,028	8,832,623
Treasury Stock, Shares	33,274	32,306

XML

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Statement [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 3.35	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03
Net sales	$ 305,907	$ 276,573	$ 275,834
Cost of goods sold	122,889	108,511	106,710
Gross profit	183,018	168,062	169,124
Operating expenses:
Selling Expense	98,025	92,908	90,093
General and Administrative Expense	80,479	76,611	75,979
Selling, general and administrative expenses	178,504	169,519	166,072
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property	(5,422)	0	0
Environmental remediation expense	0	0	931
Operating expenses	173,082	169,519	167,003
Operating income (loss)	9,936	(1,457)	2,121
Interest expense	(622)	(496)	(766)
Other income (expenses), net	780	422	(203)
Income (loss) before income taxes	(10,094)	1,531	(1,152)
Income tax (benefit) expense	(19,594)	98	855
Net Income (loss)	$ 29,688	$ (1,629)	$ 297
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 3.25	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic	8,864	8,780	8,726
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements	267	0	150
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	9,131	8,780	8,876
Comprehensive income (loss)
Net income (loss)	$ 29,688	$ (1,629)	$ 297
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	861	427	(1,892)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 30,549	$ (1,202)	$ (1,595)

XML

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity - USD ($)	Total	Common Stock, $1 par value	Capital in Excess of Par Value	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 61,855,000	$ 8,720,000	$ 8,701,000	$ 43,275,000	$ (267,000)	$ 1,426,000
Net income (loss)	297,000			297,000
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	(1,892,000)					(1,892,000)
Stock based compensation	1,252,000	0	1,252,000
Shares issued		76,000	(76,000)
Share repurchase	(248,000)				(248,000)
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2015	61,264,000	8,796,000	9,877,000	43,572,000	(515,000)	(466,000)
Net income (loss)	(1,629,000)			(1,629,000)
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	427,000					427,000
Stock based compensation	1,247,000	0	1,247,000
Shares issued		69,000	(69,000)
Share repurchase	(176,000)				(176,000)
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2016	61,133,000	8,865,000	11,055,000	41,943,000	(691,000)	(39,000)
Deferred Tax Expense from Stock Options Exercised	200,000
Net income (loss)	29,688,000
Adjustment for foreign currency translation	861,000
Stock based compensation	2,006,000	0	2,006,000
Shares issued		56,000	(56,000)
Share repurchase	(20,000)				(20,000)
Balance at end of year at Dec. 31, 2017	93,490,000	$ 8,921,000	$ 13,005,000	$ 71,453,000	$ (711,000)	$ 822,000
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	$ (178,000)

XML

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Common stock, par value	$ 1.00	$ 1.00

XML

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating activities:
Net Income (loss)	$ 29,688	$ (1,629)	$ 297
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	(6,770)	(8,066)	(8,543)
Stock based compensation	(3,106)	(2,469)	(2,093)
Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment	(5,422)	0	0
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes	(21,229)	31	0
Environmental Remediation Expense	0	0	931
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(5,275)	(3,252)	3,285
Inventories	(1,713)	2,229	(116)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(1,226)	(45)	418
Accounts payable and other liabilities	(1,846)	(573)	6,133
Other	525	194	215
Net cash provided by operating activities	7,070	8,636	9,533
Investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(1,256)	(3,112)	(2,342)
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	32,286	6,030	441
Proceeds from sale of property	6,177	0	3
Net cash used in investing activities	(27,365)	(9,142)	(2,780)
Financing activities:
Net borrowings on revolving line of credit	13,595	(84)	925
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	20	0	50
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock	(20)	(176)	(248)
Payments of Merger Related Costs, Financing Activities	(80)	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	13,515	(260)	727
Discontinued operations:
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents	775	422	(922)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(6,005)	(344)	6,558
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	10,421	10,765	4,207
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 4,416	$ 10,421	$ 10,765

XML

Description of Business

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Description of Business

Description of Business

Lawson Products, Inc. (“Lawson” or the “Company”) is a North American distributor of products and services to the industrial, commercial, institutional and government maintenance, repair and operations (“MRO”) marketplace. The Company has two operating segments. The Lawson operating segment distributes MRO products to customers primarily through a network of sales representatives offering VMI service to customers throughout the United States and Canada. In October 2017 the Company acquired The Bolt Supply House, Ltd. ("Bolt"), an MRO distributor located in western Canada. The Bolt operating segment distributes MRO products primarily through its 13 branches located in Western Canada.

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation — The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and include the accounts and transactions of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period presentation. Such reclassifications have no effect on net income as previously reported.

Revenue Recognition — Net sales include product sales and billings for freight and handling charges. Sales and associated cost of goods sold are generally recognized when products are shipped and title passes to customers. We accrue for returns based on historical evidence of return rates.

Cash Equivalents — The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of the Company’s cash equivalents at December 31, 2017 approximates fair value.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts — The Company evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where the Company is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings, substantial down-grading of credit ratings), a specific reserve for bad debts is recorded against amounts due to reduce the receivable to the amount the Company reasonably believes will be collected. For all other customers, the Company recognizes reserves for bad debts based on the Company’s historical experience of bad debt write-offs as a percent of accounts receivable outstanding. If circumstances change (e.g., higher than expected defaults or an unexpected material adverse change in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations), the estimates of the recoverability of amounts due the Company could be revised by a material amount.

Inventories — Inventories principally consist of finished goods stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in-first-out method. To reduce the cost basis of inventory to a lower of cost or net realizable value, a reserve is recorded for slow-moving and obsolete inventory based on historical experience and monitoring of current inventory activity. Estimates are used to determine the necessity of recording these reserves based on periodic detailed analysis using both qualitative and quantitative factors. As part of this analysis, the Company considers several factors including the inventories length of time on hand, historical sales, product shelf life, product life cycle, product category and product obsolescence.

Property, Plant and Equipment — Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation expense is computed primarily by the straight-line method for its buildings, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. The Company estimates useful lives of 20 to 30 years for buildings and improvements and 3 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. Amortization of financing and capital leases is included in depreciation expense.

Depreciation expense was $4.7 million, $4.7 million and $4.6 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Capitalized software is amortized over estimated useful lives of 3 to 5 years using the straight-line method. Amortization expense of capitalized software was $1.6 million, $3.1 million and $3.8 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Cash Value of Life Insurance — The Company has invested funds in life insurance policies on certain current and former employees. The cash surrender value of the policies is invested in various investment instruments and is recorded as an asset on our consolidated financial statements. The Company records these funds at contractual value. The change in the cash surrender value of the life insurance policies, which is recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses, is the change in the policies' contractual values.

Deferred Compensation — The Company’s Executive Deferral Plan (“Deferral Plan”) allows certain executives to defer payment of a portion of their earned compensation. The deferred compensation is recorded in an Account Balance, which is a bookkeeping entry made by the Company to measure the amount due to the participant. The Account Balance is equal to the participant’s deferred compensation, adjusted for increases and/or decreases in the amount that the participant has designated to one or more bookkeeping portfolios that track the performance of certain mutual funds. Lawson adjusts the deferred compensation liability to equal the contractual value of the participants’ Account Balances. These adjustments are the changes in contractual value of the individual plans and are recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses.

Stock-Based Compensation — Compensation based on the share value of the Company’s common stock is valued at its fair value at the grant date and the expense is recognized over the vesting period. Fair value is re-measured each reporting period for liability-classified awards that may be redeemable in cash.

Goodwill — The Company had $19.6 million and $5.5 million of goodwill in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Goodwill represents the cost of business acquisitions in excess of the fair value of identifiable net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to the appropriate reporting unit, which are the same as the operating segments as reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker responsible for reviewing operating performance and allocating resources. The Company reviews goodwill for potential impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or when an event or other circumstance changes that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the asset below its carrying value.

The first step in the multi-step process to determine if goodwill has been impaired and to what degree is to review the relevant qualitative factors that could cause the fair value of the reporting unit to decrease below the carrying value of the reporting unit. After reviewing the qualitative factors relevant to the reporting units, including conditions surrounding the industry we operate in compared to when the acquisitions were completed, the financial performance of the reporting units compared to our projected results, and macroeconomic conditions as a whole, we have determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceed their carrying value, therefore goodwill has not been impaired and no further steps need to be taken.

Intangible Assets — The Company's intangible assets consists of trade names, and customer relationships. Intangible assets are amortized over weighted average 15 and 11 year estimated useful lives for trade names and customer relationships, respectively.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets — The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and definite life intangibles, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of these assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by a comparison of the assets' carrying amount to their expected future undiscounted net cash flows. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured based on the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. In 2016 the Company determined that a triggering event had occurred when it announced a plan to close its distribution center located in Fairfield, New Jersey. Based on independent offers obtained for the facility, the Company determined that no impairment had occurred. No additional triggering events or impairments occurred in 2017.

Income Taxes — Deferred tax assets or liabilities reflect temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. A valuation allowance is established to offset any deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is more likely than not (i.e. greater than 50% likely) that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The determination of the amount of a valuation allowance to be provided on recorded deferred tax assets involves estimates regarding (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, (3) the impact of tax planning strategies and (4) the ability to carry back deferred tax assets to offset prior taxable income. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including past operating results, projections of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. The projections of future taxable income include a number of estimates and assumptions regarding our volume, pricing and costs. Additionally, valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can be impacted by changes to tax laws. Significant judgment is required in determining income tax provisions as well as deferred tax asset and liability balances, including the estimation of valuation allowances and the evaluation of tax positions.

In 2012, due to historical cumulative losses, we had determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance.

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Earnings from the Company's foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. A distribution of these non-U.S. earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise would subject the Company to foreign withholding taxes and may subject the Company to U.S. federal and state taxes.

The Company recognizes the benefit of tax positions when a benefit is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likely) to be sustained on its technical merits. Recognized tax benefits are measured at the largest amount that is more likely than not to be sustained, based on cumulative probability, in final settlement of the position. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

Leases — Leases are categorized as either operating or capital leases at inception. Operating lease costs are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. An asset and a corresponding liability for the capital lease obligation are established for the cost of capital leases. The capital lease obligation is amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term. The Company purchased $0.3 million and $0.2 million of assets financed by capital leases in 2017 and 2016, respectively, in non-cash transactions that were not reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

For build-to-suit financing leases, the Company establishes an asset and liability for the estimated construction costs incurred to the extent that it is involved in the construction of structural improvements or takes construction risk prior to the commencement of the lease. Upon occupancy of facilities under build-to-suit leases, the Company assesses whether these arrangements qualify for sales recognition under the sale-leaseback accounting guidance. If a lease does not meet the criteria to qualify for a sale-leaseback transaction, the established asset and liability remain on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. This asset is depreciated over the life of the lease and the liability is reduced by the non-interest portion of the lease payments for costs allocated to the building and on a straight line basis for costs allocated to land.

Sub-leases — If the Company is relieved of its primary obligation under the original lease then the original lease is considered to be terminated, otherwise if the Company retains primary obligation under the original lease then the Company continues to account for the original lease and also accounts for the new sub-lease as lessor. At the time the sub-lease is executed, the Company records a gain or loss equal to the difference between the total cash payments to be made for gross rent under the original lease agreement over the life of the sub-lease plus executory costs and total gross rent proceeds expected to be received over the life of the sub-lease.

Earnings per Share — Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution from the exercise or conversion of outstanding stock options, market stock units and restricted stock awards into common stock. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, stock options to purchase 80,000, 40,000 and 40,000, respectively of the Company's common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the options’ exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common stock. The dilutive effect of outstanding securities of approximately 164,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share as the Company recorded a loss for those periods and therefore the effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Foreign Currency — The accounts of foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. All balance sheet amounts are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the applicable period end. Components of income or loss are translated using the average exchange rate for each reporting period.

Gains and losses resulting from changes in the exchange rates from translation of the subsidiary accounts in local currency to U.S. dollars are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in the consolidated balance sheets. Gains and losses resulting from the effect of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are included as a component of net income or loss upon settlement of the transaction.

Gains and losses resulting from intercompany transactions are included as a component of net income or loss each reporting period unless the transactions are of a long-term-investment nature and settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future, in which case the gains and losses are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive or loss in the consolidated balance sheets.

Treasury Stock —The Company repurchased 968, 7,162 and 11,261 shares of its common stock in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, from employees upon the vesting of restricted stock to offset the income taxes owed by those employees. The Company accounts for treasury stock using the cost method and includes treasury stock as a component of stockholders’ equity. The value of the treasury stock repurchased of $20 thousand, $176 thousand and $248 thousand in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Acquisitions — The Company recognizes identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions for the purchase price allocation process to value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill.

Use of Estimates — Preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for allowance for doubtful accounts. inventory reserves, goodwill and intangible assets valuation, and income taxes in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting

Effective January 1, 2017, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, “Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718)” (“ASU 2016-09”). Prior to January 1, 2017, the Company recognized excess tax benefits or deficiencies of stock-based compensation expense, to the extent that there were sufficient recognized excess tax benefits previously recognized, as a component of additional paid-in capital. ASU 2016-09 requires the Company to account for excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. The adoption was applied on a modified retrospective basis. Deferred tax assets related to stock-based compensation were fully reserved and, therefore, there was no net effect on the Company's beginning balance sheet for 2017 and a $0.2 million benefit to the Company's results of operations.

As a result of including the income tax effects from excess tax benefits in income tax expense, the effects of the excess tax benefits are no longer included in the calculation of diluted shares outstanding, resulting in an increase in the number of diluted shares outstanding. The Company adopted this change in the method of calculating diluted shares outstanding on a prospective basis.

ASU 2016-09 also permits entities to make an accounting policy election related to how forfeitures will impact the recognition of compensation cost for stock-based compensation to either estimate the total number of awards for which the requisite service period will not be rendered, as currently required, or to account for forfeitures as they occur. Upon adoption of ASU 2016-09, the Company elected to change its accounting policy to account for forfeitures as they occur. The change was applied on a modified retrospective basis with a cumulative effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings by $178 thousand, as of January 1, 2017.

Additionally, ASU 2016-09 addressed the presentation of employee taxes paid on the statement of cash flows. The Company is now required to present the cost of shares withheld from the employee to satisfy the employees’ income tax liability as a financing activity on the statement of cash flows rather than as an operating cash flow. The Company adopted this change retrospectively. The Company withheld shares with a value of $20 thousand, $176 thousand and $248 thousand to satisfy employee taxes in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which is intended to help companies evaluate whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses by providing a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is a business. This ASU will be effective commencing with our quarter ending March 31, 2018. Although we do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption, it may have a material impact if applicable transactions occur.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. This standard eliminates a step from the goodwill impairment test and instead requires an entity to recognize a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the goodwill carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. This guidance is effective for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. This guidance must be applied on a prospective basis. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2017. The adoption of this guidance had no material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash, which requires amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the total beginning and ending amounts for the periods shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-08 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. The Company does not expect the impact on its consolidated financial statements to be material.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) in order to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for those leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP. ASU 2016-02 requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a modified retrospective approach and early adoption is permitted. The Company will adopt ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of 2019. While the effect of the pronouncement has not yet been quantified, the Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of recording the right-of-use-assets and liabilities on its financial position. The Company anticipates it will be required to record assets and liabilities for leases currently classified as operating leases.

In November, 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This update simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes by requiring all entities that present a classified balance sheet to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as a noncurrent amount. The objective of this ASU is to reduce the cost and complexity of recording deferred taxes without affecting the usefulness of financial statement information. The pronouncement is effective for public entities in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years and the guidance may be applied on either a prospective or retrospective basis. The Company adopted ASU 2015-07 on a prospective basis in 2017.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No.  2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory, which requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which consists of the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable cost of completion, disposal, and transportation. This pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is to be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company adopted ASU 2015-11 on January 1, 2017 and it had no material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASU 2014-09), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. The new standard is effective for the Company's interim and annual periods beginning with the first quarter of 2018. The standard is to be applied using one of two retrospective application methods.

The ASU also requires disclosures sufficient to enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers, including qualitative and quantitative disclosures about contracts with customers, significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. Numerous updates were issued in 2016 that provide clarification on a number of specific issues as well as requiring additional disclosures.

The Company established a team to address the effect of the new accounting standard. The team has reviewed the terms and conditions included in a representative sample of its contracts with customers and, as a result of this review, determined that the terms of the majority of its contracts are similar in nature. Therefore, the Company will adopt the standard through the application of the portfolio approach in which a representative sample of customer contracts that are characteristically representative of all contracts are selected and are assessed under the guidance of the new standard.

In applying the standard to the terms of these contracts, the Company identified that its Vendor Managed Inventory ("VMI") service in the Lawson segment is a separate performance obligation associated with its written and implied contracts. The VMI performance obligation is generally completed within a short period of time subsequent to control of the product passing to the customer. The amount of revenue associated with the VMI service will be deferred until the time that the VMI performance obligation has been completed.

Under the portfolio method, the Company has developed a methodology to estimate the dollar amount of this deferral. The methodology, as a practical expedient, uses certain assumptions to estimate the amount of revenue to be deferred. These estimates include, among others, the percentage of customers that take advantage of the VMI services offered, the amount of revenue to be allocated to the VMI service based on the value of the service to its customers, and the amount of time after control of the product passes to the customer that the VMI service obligation is completed.

The Company will apply this methodology to calculate the impact of the pronouncement on its consolidated financial statements. The Company expects to adopt ASU 2014-09 January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective method. Under this method, a cumulative effect adjustment will be recorded based on applying the guidance to the customer contracts that were not completed at the date of initial application. As a result, prior periods will not be adjusted to reflect application of the new guidance.

Although the calculation has not yet been finalized, the Company anticipates that it will record a one-time increase in deferred revenue and a decrease to retained earnings of approximately $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2018 due to the adoption of the standard. The estimated impact of adopting ASC 606 is based on the Company's best estimate at the time of the preparation of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The actual impact is subject to change prior to the first quarter 2018 filing. After initial adoption, the effect on consolidated revenue and expenses in subsequent periods is not expected to be significant. However, additional quantitative and qualitative presentations and disclosures will be required on identified revenue streams and performance obligations.

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Restricted Cash Restricted Cash

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Restricted Cash [Abstract]

Restricted Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

Restricted Cash

The Company has agreed to maintain $0.8 million in a money market account as collateral for an outside party that is providing certain commercial card processing services for the Company. The Company is restricted from withdrawing this balance without the prior consent of the outside party during the term of the agreement.

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Inventories

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]

Inventories

Inventories, net

Inventories, net, consisting primarily of purchased goods which are offered for resale, were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Inventories, gross	$	56,492		$	48,038
Reserve for obsolete and excess inventory	(5,564		)	(5,477		)
Inventories, net	$	50,928		$	42,561

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Property, Plant and Equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment

Components of property, plant and equipment were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Land	$	2,752		$	2,721
Buildings and improvements	16,973			18,981
Machinery and equipment	23,277			22,837
Capitalized software	21,947			21,371
McCook Facility	12,961			12,961
Furniture and fixtures	5,634			5,714
Capital leases	806			534
Vehicles	214			166
Construction in progress	375			571
	84,939			85,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(57,606		)	(54,949		)
	$	27,333		$	30,907

In 2017, the Company received net cash proceeds of $6.2 million and recognized a gain of $5.4 million from the sale of its Fairfield, New Jersey distribution center.

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Acquisitions (Notes)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]

Acquisitions

2017

In October, 2017, the Company acquired The Bolt Supply House Ltd., based in Calgary, Canada, for a purchase price of approximately $32.3 million, The purchase price was funded with cash on hand and utilization of Lawson Products’ existing credit facility. Bolt is a leading Canadian distributor of high quality fasteners, power tools and industrial MRO supplies, with 13 branch locations throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, Canada. The acquisition was made to add to the Company's revenue and earnings and expand distribution coverage in Western Canada.

The purchase price of the acquisition was allocated to the fair market value of Bolt's assets and liabilities on the acquisition date. The fair market value appraisals of the majority of the assets and liabilities were determined third party valuation firms including intangible assets of $7.2 million for trade names and $4.2 million for customers relationships and their estimated useful lives of 15 and 12 years, respectively. The $14.2 million allocated to goodwill reflects the purchase price less the fair market value of the identifiable net assets. The appropriate fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the related tax balances, are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions. These preliminary estimates and assumptions could change significantly during the purchase price measurement period as the Company finalizes the valuations of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the related tax balances. Such changes could result in material variances between the Company's future financial results and the amounts presented in the unaudited pro forma information, including variances in the estimated purchase price, fair values recorded and expenses associated with these items. Further operating details related to the operations of Bolt subsequent to the acquisition are included in Note 16 - Segment information.

2016

Primarily to expand its sales coverage and retain experienced sales representatives, the Company completed three acquisitions in 2016. In November, the Company acquired the assets of Mattic Industries Limited ("Mattic") an industrial parts distributor located in western Canada, for approximately $3.5 million in cash and $0.3 million in contingent consideration. In May, the Company acquired the assets of F.B. Feeney Hardware ("F. B. Feeney") in Ontario, Canada, for approximately $1.3 million in cash and $0.1 million in contingent consideration. And, in March, the Company acquired the assets of Perfect Products Company of Michigan ("Perfect Products"), an auto parts distributor for approximately $1.3 million in cash and $30 thousand in contingent consideration.

The Company allocated $0.7 million of the purchase price of the three acquisitions to an intangible asset for customer relationships which will be amortized over five years. Total contingent consideration of $0.4 million was not reflected in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows.

2015

The Company acquired one Company in 2015, West Coast Fasteners LTD (West Coast"), an auto parts distributor located in western Canada for approximately $0.4 million in cash.

A summary of the purchase price allocation of the acquisitions is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Cash paid and liabilities assumed
Cash paid	$	32,286	$	6,030	$	441
Deferred tax liability	3,065		—		—
Other liabilities	2,434		188		—
Contingent consideration	—		412		—
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441
Fair value of assets acquired
Goodwill	$	14,176	$	5,231	$	299
Trade names	7,241		—		—
Inventory	6,315		584		137
Customer relationships	4,186		733		—
Accounts receivable	3,323		—		—
Property, plant and equipment	1,796		—		—
Other assets	748		82		5
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441

Additional acquisition expenses of $0.7 million, $0.6 million and $0.3 million were recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table contains unaudited pro forma net sales and net income (loss) for Lawson Products assuming the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016			2015
Net Sales
Actual	$	305,907	$	276,573		$	275,834
Pro forma	$	331,522	$	308,250		$	283,573
Net income (loss)
Actual	$	29,688	$	(1,629	)	$	297
Pro forma	$	31,083	$	(1,148	)	$	317

The pro forma disclosures in the table above include adjustments for, amortization of intangible assets, interest expense, tax expenses and the impact of pro forma adjustments and acquisition costs to reflect results that are more representative of the combined results of the transactions as if the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014. This pro forma information utilizes certain estimates, is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be indicative of the results of operation that would have actually occurred. In addition, future results may vary significantly from the results reflected in the pro forma information. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect the impact of future events that may occur after the acquisition, such as anticipated cost savings from operating synergies.

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Goodwill (Notes)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Goodwill [Abstract]

Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block]

Goodwill

Goodwill activity related to these acquisitions is included in the table below:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Beginning balance	$	5,520		$	319
Acquisition	14,176			5,231
Impact of foreign exchange	(9		)	(30		)
Adjustment to prior year allocation (1)	(73		)	—
Ending balance	$	19,614		$	5,520

(1) The reduction of $0.1 million in 2017 resulted from a non-cash adjustment to the estimated purchase price allocation to inventory originally recorded in 2016.

Goodwill was tested for impairment in the fourth quarter of 2017 and no adjustment was deemed necessary.

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Intangible assets (Notes)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

Intangible assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

Amortization expense of $0.4 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million related to intangible assets was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

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Income Tax

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Income (loss) from operations before income taxes consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
United States	$	10,159		$	(708	)	$	3,583
Canada	(65		)	(823		)	(2,431		)
	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152

Provision (benefit) for income taxes from operations for the years ended December 31, consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	296		$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	129			(33		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	1,634		$	67		$	855
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,971	)	$	—		$	—
U.S. state	(3,257		)	31			—
Canada	—			—			—
Total	$	(21,228	)	$	31		$	—
Total income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,675	)	$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	(3,128		)	(2		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	(19,594	)	$	98		$	855

The reconciliation between the effective income tax rate and the statutory federal rate for operations was as follows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Statutory federal rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
Change in valuation allowance - reversal	(210.5	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - federal tax rate change	(126.4	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - current period activity	(65.7	)	14.5		(86.4	)
Federal tax rate change	126.4		—		—
Foreign income inclusion	29.2		—		—
Change in uncertain tax positions	7.7		0.6		56.2
State and local taxes, net	4.7		(17.4	)	10.4
Alternative minimum tax	3.6		(6.3	)	7.6
Meals & entertainment	1.4		(9.0	)	11.6
Executive life insurance	0.9		(3.1	)	2.4
Provision to return differences	(0.7	)	(4.5	)	24.4
Captive insurance income	0.3		(3.0	)	—
Foreign tax rate differential	0.1		(14.3	)	17.9
Other items, net	(0.1	)	1.1		(4.9	)
Provision for income taxes (benefit)	(194.1	)%	(6.4	)%	74.2	%

The Company paid income taxes of $0.3 million, $0.2 million and $0.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively. At December 31, 2017, the Company had $28.8 million of U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards which are subject to expiration beginning in 2030 and $23.4 million of various state net operating loss carryforwards which expire at varying dates through 2034.

In the second quarter of 2017, the Company increased its deferred tax assets and related valuation allowance by $7.6 million that may arise from future settlement of uncertain tax positions in Canada. There was no impact to the Company's consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, balance sheets or statements of cash flows, as at the time the Company had valuation allowances equal to the value of the deferred tax assets. That amount was reduced to $4.6 million as of December 31, 2017 primarily as a result of the lower U.S. federal rate.

Primarily due to the cumulative losses that were incurred over several years, management determined in 2012 that it was more likely than not that the company would not be able to utilize its deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Valuation allowances ("VA’s") were recorded against virtually all the gross deferred tax assets at that time. At each reporting date since 2012, Lawson management has considered new evidence, both positive and negative, that could impact management’s view with regard to the realization of its deferred tax assets and the reversal of the corresponding valuation allowances. If the company was able to demonstrate that it can consistently generate income it may lead to a determination that there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely than not that the company will be able to utilize its deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income.

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Certain valuation allowances mostly pertaining to the deferred tax assets related to our foreign operations will remain. The Company will continue to monitor all positive and negative evidence related to the remaining valuation of deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was enacted into law on December 22, 2017. Among its provisions, the law reduced the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective January 1, 2018, requiring the Company to re-measure its net U.S. deferred tax assets to reflect the reduction in the tax rate. The impact of the change resulted in a reduction to deferred tax assets of $12.6 million offset by the same decrease in the valuation allowance. The income tax benefit recorded in 2017 of $19.6 million was primarily the result of the valuation allowance reversal of $21.2 million recorded at December 31, 2017.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also requires that a US shareholder of a specified foreign corporation ("SFC") to include in gross income, at the end of the SFC’s last tax year beginning before January 1, 2018, the US shareholder’s pro-rata share of certain of the SFC’s undistributed and previously untaxed post-1986 foreign earnings and profits ("E&P"). The U.S. shareholder’s income inclusion is taxed at an effective U.S. federal income tax rate of either 15.5% or 8%. The 15.5% rate applies to the extent that the SFC’s hold cash and certain other assets, and the 8% rate applies to the extent the income inclusion exceeds the foreign cash position. During the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company utilized $8.4 million of net operating losses to offset its E&P.

The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") recently issued SAB 118 (Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act) which allows registrants to record provisional amounts during a measurement period. The SAB allows a company to recognize provisional amounts when it does not have the necessary information prepared in reasonable detail to calculate the effect of the change in tax law. Per the SAB, a company should report provisional amounts when the accounting is not complete, but for which a reasonable estimate can be determined. Lawson has included in its 2017 taxable income calculation a provisional amount of approximately $8.4 million representing previously untaxed foreign earnings and profits. The Company will not accrue any federal income tax on this amount as the company is able to utilize federal net operating losses to offset the income.

As a result of acquisitions completed in 2017, 2016 and 2015, the Company recorded $19.6 million of tax deductible goodwill that may result in a tax benefit in future periods.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities contain the following temporary differences:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward	$	12,120		$	17,518
Compensation and benefits	7,828			12,126
Inventory reserve	1,689			2,750
Capital loss carryforward	1,326			2,210
Accounts receivable reserve	130			183
Other	1,155			1,770
Total deferred tax assets	24,248			36,557
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets	3,115			—
Property, plant and equipment	41			433
Other	403			688
Total deferred liabilities	3,559			1,121
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	20,689			35,436
Valuation allowance	(2,556		)	(35,416		)
Net deferred tax assets	$	18,133		$	20

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Balance at beginning of year	$	3,249	$	3,136
Additions for tax positions of current year	865		544
Additions for tax positions of prior years	141		116
Reductions for tax positions of prior year	—		(547		)
Balance at end of year	$	4,255	$	3,249

The recognition of the unrecognized tax benefits would have a favorable effect on the effective tax rate. Due to the uncertainty of both timing and resolution of income tax examinations, the Company is unable to determine whether any amounts included in the December 31, 2017 balance of unrecognized tax benefits represent tax positions that could significantly change during the next twelve months. The unrecognized tax benefits are recorded as a component of Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recorded as a component of income tax expense.

The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state and foreign jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2017, the Company was subject to U.S federal income tax examinations for the years 2014 through 2016 and income tax examinations from various other jurisdictions for the years 2011 through 2016.

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Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other liabilities consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Accrued compensation	$	9,044	$	5,465
Accrued stock-based compensation (stock performance rights)	8,712		7,859
Accrued and withheld taxes, other than income taxes	1,136		1,149
Financing lease obligation	1,123		996
Accrued profit sharing	894		627
Accrued health benefits	657		676
Accrued severance	483		1,428
Other	10,991		9,089
	$	33,040	$	27,289

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Loan Agreement

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Revolving Line of Credit

Loan Agreements

Lawson Loan Agreement

In 2012, the Company entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with CIBC Bank USA, formerly known as The PrivateBank and Trust Company. The Loan Agreement consists of a $40.0 million revolving line of credit facility, which includes a $10.0 million sub-facility for letters of credit. Certain terms of the original Loan Agreement were revised in December 2013 and in September 2016. The Loan Agreement, as amended, expires in August 2020. Due to the lock box arrangement and a subjective acceleration clause contained in the Loan Agreement, any outstanding borrowings under the revolving line of credit are classified as a current liability.

Credit available under the Loan Agreement is based upon:

a) 85% of the face amount of the Company’s eligible accounts receivable, generally less than 60 days past due, and

b) the lesser of 60% of the lower of cost or market value of the Company’s eligible inventory, generally inventory expected to be sold within 18 months, or $20.0 million.

The applicable interest rates for borrowings are the Prime rate or, if the Company elects, the LIBOR rate plus 1.50% to 1.85% based on the Company’s debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined in the amended Loan Agreement. The Loan Agreement is secured by a first priority perfected security interest in substantially all existing assets of the Company. Dividends are restricted so as not to exceed $7.0 million annually.

At December 31, 2017, the Company had $13.6 million outstanding balance under its revolving line of credit facility and additional borrowing availability of $22.8 million. The carrying amount of the Company’s debt at December 31, 2017 approximates its fair value. The Company paid interest of $0.6 million, $0.2 million and $0.5 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The weighted average interest rate was 3.2% in 2017. The Company had $1.7 million of outstanding letters of credit as of December 31, 2017.

In addition to other customary representations, warranties and covenants, and if the excess capacity is below $10.0 million, the Company is required to meet a minimum trailing twelve month EBITDA to fixed charges ratio, as defined in the amended Loan Agreement. On December 31, 2017, the Company's borrowing capacity exceeded $10.0 million, therefore, the Company was not subject to these financial covenants, however, for informational purposes the results of the financial covenant is provided below:

Quarterly Financial Covenants	Requirement	Actual
EBITDA to fixed charges ratio	1.10 : 1.00	3.62 : 1.00

The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of December 31, 2017.

Commitment Letter

Bolt has a Commitment Letter with BMO Bank of Montreal ("BMO") dated March 30, 2017 which allows Bolt to access up to $5.5 million Canadian dollars in the form of either an overdraft facility or as commercial letters of credit. The Commitment Letter is cancellable at any time at BMOs sole discretion and is secured by substantially all of Bolt’s assets. It carries an interest rate of the bank's prime rate plus 0.25%. At December 31, 2017, Bolt had $1.2 million Canadian dollars of outstanding borrowings and remaining borrowing availability of $4.3 million Canadian dollars. The Commitment Letter is subject to a working capital ratio of 1.35:1, a maximum ratio of debt to tangible net worth of 2.5:1 of the Bolt assets and Debt Service Coverage Ratio 1.25:1 as defined in the Commitment Letter. At December 31, 2017, Bolt was in compliance with all covenants which are subject to periodic review, at least annually, with the next review due by August 31, 2018.

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Reserve for Severance

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Severance Reserve [Abstract]

Reserve for Severance

Reserve for Severance

Severance costs are primarily related to management realignment and reorganization. The table below reflects the activity in the Company’s reserve for severance and related payments.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Beginning balance	$	1,710		$	697		$	311
Charged to earnings	738			2,376			1,273
Cash paid	(1,965		)	(1,363		)	(887		)
Ending balance	$	483		$	1,710		$	697

The remaining severance liabilities outstanding as of December 31, 2017 will be paid by the end of 2018, and are included in Accrued expenses and other liabilities on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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Retirement and Security Bonus Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Retirement and Security Bonus Plans

Retirement and Security Bonus Plans

The Company provides a 401(k) defined contribution plan to allow employees a pre-tax investment vehicle to save for retirement. The Company made contributions to the 401(k) plan of $3.1 million, $3.1 million and $2.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The Company provides a profit sharing plan for certain sales, office and warehouse employees. The amounts of the Company’s annual contributions are determined annually by the Board of Directors. Expenses incurred for the profit sharing plan were $0.9 million, $0.6 million and $0.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The Company has a security bonus plan which was previously created for the benefit of its independent sales representatives, under the terms of which participants are credited with a percentage of their annual net commissions. The aggregate amounts credited to participants’ accounts vest 25% after five years, and an additional 5% vests each year thereafter upon qualification for the plan. On January 1, 2013, the Company converted all of its U.S. independent sales representatives to employees. The security bonus for those converted employees continue to vest, but their accounts are no longer credited with a percentage of net commissions. For financial reporting purposes, amounts are charged to operations over the vesting period. Expenses incurred for the security bonus plan were $0.5 million, $0.4 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The security bonus plan is partially funded by a $4.5 million investment in the cash surrender value in life insurance of certain employees. Of the $13.2 million total liability, $0.2 million is classified as a current liability and the remaining $13.0 million is classified as long-term.

Bolt provides its employees with a Registered Retirement Savings Plan ("RRSP") which is a tax deferred defined contribution retirement investment. Bolt contributes 4.0% of the employees pre-tax compensation. In the three months they were owned by Lawson, Bolt contributed $42 thousand to the RRSP.

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Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Commitments

Total rental expense for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 amounted to $2.6 million, $2.2 million and $2.0 million, respectively. Of the $13.9 million future minimum operating lease commitments outstanding at December 31, 2017, $6.4 million relates to a lease for the Company's headquarters which expires in March 2023. The lease commitment is partially offset by a portion of the headquarters that has been sub-leased through March 2023 and includes total future minimum lease proceeds of $0.5 million.

The Company has a financing lease for the McCook Facility which expires in June 2022 and includes future minimum lease payments, related to the building, of $6.2 million.

The Company’s future minimum lease commitments, principally for facilities and equipment, as of December 31, 2017, were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31,	Operating   Leases		Financing   Lease		Capital Leases
2018	$	2,910	$	1,348	$	169
2019	2,590		1,395		112
2020	2,464		1,444		72
2021	2,451		1,493		36
2022	2,255		542		—
Thereafter	1,202		—		—
Total	$	13,872	$	6,222	$	389

At December 31, 2017, the cost and accumulated depreciation of the asset related to the financing lease were $13.0 million and $7.2 million, respectively, and the cost and accumulated amortization of the assets related to capital leases were $0.8 million and $0.4 million, respectively.

Litigation, regulatory and tax matters

  The Company is involved in legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. It is the opinion of management that the resolution of any currently pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 

Environmental matter

In 2012, the Company identified that a site it owns in Decatur, Alabama contains hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater as a result of historical operations prior to the Company's ownership. The Company retained an environmental consulting firm to further investigate the contamination including the measurement and monitoring of the site. In August 2013, the site was enrolled in Alabama's voluntary cleanup program. On October 30, 2014, the Company received estimates from its environmental consulting firm for three potential remediation solutions. The estimates included a range of viable remedial approaches. The first solution included limited excavation and removal of the contaminated soil along with an extensive monitoring period. The second solution included the first solution plus the installation of a groundwater extraction system. The third scenario included the first and second solutions plus treatment injections to reduce the degradation time. The estimated expenditures over the life of the three scenarios ranged from $0.3 million to $1.4 million. As the Company had determined that a loss was probable and no scenario was more likely than the other at that time, a liability in the amount of $0.3 million was established in 2014.

During 2015, after further evidence had been collected and analyzed, the Company concluded that it was probable that future remediation would be required, and accordingly accrued an additional $0.9 million for the estimated costs.

In 2017 the Company received estimates from its environmental consulting firm for two new remediation solutions based on a chemical injection process. The first solution would consist of chemical injections throughout the entire site to directly eliminate the hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater. The second solution would consist of chemical injections around the perimeter of the site to prevent the migration of the hazardous chemicals off-site. Neither solution would require additional excavation or repairs to be made to the property. Additionally, the estimated required monitoring period would be substantially reduced. The estimated expenditures over an 18 month period under the two injection scenarios ranged from $0.9 million to $2.0 million. The Company does not expect to capitalize any amounts related to these remediation options.

The Company has determined that it will initially proceed with the method of injecting chemicals around the perimeter of the site to prevent the migration of the hazardous chemicals off-site. As of December 31, 2017, approximately $1.0 million remains accrued for this remediation in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. This estimate was based on the information provided to date and as the remediation efforts proceed, additional information may impact the final cost. As of December 31, 2017, agreement with Alabama’s voluntary cleanup program on viable treatment of the property has not yet been reached and the Company continues to evaluate potential remediation alternatives that could impact the ultimate cost of remediation.

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Stock Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Compensation Plans

Plan Administration

The Company's Amended and Restated 2009 Equity Compensation Plan (“Equity Plan”) provides for the grant of nonqualified and incentive stock options, stock awards and stock units to officers and employees of the Company. The Equity Plan also provides for the grant of option rights and restricted stock to non-employee directors. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had approximately 140,000 shares of common stock still available under the Equity Plan with no participant allowed a grant of more than 40,000 shares of common stock in any calendar year. The Equity Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, or its designee, which as administrator of the plan, has the authority to select plan participants, grant awards, and determine the terms and conditions of the awards.

The Company also has a Stock Performance Rights Plan (“SPR Plan”) that provides for the issuance of Stock Performance Rights (“SPRs”) that allow non-employee directors, officers and key employees to receive cash awards, subject to certain restrictions, equal to the appreciation of the Company's common stock. The SPR Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.

Stock Performance Rights

SPRs entitle the recipient to receive a cash payment equal to the excess of the market value of the Company's common stock over the SPR exercise price when the SPRs are surrendered. Expense, equal to the fair market value of the SPR at the date of grant and remeasured each reporting period, is recorded ratably over the vesting period. Compensation expense or benefit is included in General and administrative expense. A majority of the outstanding SPRs have a seven to ten year life and vest over one to three years beginning on the first anniversary of the date of the grant.

On December 31, 2017, the SPRs outstanding were re-measured at fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This model requires the input of subjective assumptions that may have a significant impact on the fair value estimate. The weighted-average estimated value of SPRs outstanding as of December 31, 2017 was $9.83 per SPR using the following assumptions:

Expected volatility	20.5% to 44.2%
Risk-free rate of return	1.2% to 2.2%
Expected term (in years)	0.1 to 4.5
Expected annual dividend	$0

The expected volatility was based on the historic volatility of the Company's stock price commensurate with the expected life of the SPR. The risk-free rate of return reflects the interest rate offered for zero coupon treasury bonds over the expected life of the SPR. The expected life represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding and was calculated using the simplified method allowed by the SEC due to insufficient historical data. The estimated annual dividend was based on the recent dividend payout trend.

Compensation expense of $1.2 million, $1.2 million and $0.9 million was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Cash in the amount of $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $1.0 million was paid out for SPR exercises in 2017, 2016 and 2015. A liability of $8.7 million reflecting the estimated fair value of future pay-outs has been included as a component of Accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets.

Activity related to the Company’s SPRs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of SPRs		Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	946,701		$	19.60
Granted	78,948		25.12
Exercised	(34,095	)	12.99
Cancelled	(30,000	)	36.71
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	961,554		9.76
Exercisable on December 31, 2017	702,438		$	17.66

The SPRs outstanding had an intrinsic value of $6.3 million as of December 31, 2017. Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested SPRs was $1.7 million at December 31, 2017, which will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. During the year ended December 31, 2017, 152,232 SPRs with a fair value of $0.8 million vested. At December 31, 2017, the weighted average remaining contractual term was 4.7 years for all outstanding SPRs and 4.4 years for all exercisable SPRs.

Restricted Stock Awards

Restricted stock awards ("RSAs") generally vest over a one to three year period beginning on the first anniversary of the date of the grant. Upon vesting, the vested restricted stock awards are exchanged for an equal number of the Company’s common stock. The participants have no voting or dividend rights with the restricted stock awards. The restricted stock awards are valued at the closing price of the common stock on the date of grant and the expense is recorded ratably over the vesting period.

Compensation expense of $0.9 million, $0.6 million and $0.6 million related to the RSAs was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Activity related to the Company’s RSAs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Restricted Stock Awards
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	31,897
Granted	104,920
Exchanged for shares	(31,897	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	104,920

As of December 31, 2017, there was $1.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to RSAs that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. The awards granted in 2017 had a weighted average grant date fair value of $22.73 per share.

Market Stock Units

Market Stock Units ("MSUs") are exchangeable for between 0% to 150% of the Company's common shares at the end of the vesting period based on the trailing 60 day average closing price of the Company's common stock. The value of the MSUs was determined using a geometric brownian motion model that, based on certain variables, generates a large number of random trials simulating the price of the common stock over the measurement period. Expense of $0.9 million, $0.5 million and $0.5 million related to MSUs was recorded in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Activity related to the Company’s MSUs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Market Stock Units		Maximum Shares Potentially Issuable
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	149,532		224,298
Granted	98,243		147,365
Cancelled	(25,839	)	(38,759	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	221,936		332,904

Stock Options

Each stock option can be exchanged for one share of the Company’s common stock at the stated exercise price. Activity related to stock options during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Stock Options		Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	45,910		26.55
Granted	40,000		27.01
Exercised	(1,434	)	14.04
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	84,476		26.98

Expense related to stock options was $0.2 million in 2017 and unrecognized compensation at December 31, 2017 was $0.1 million.

Stock Awards

During 2017, 40,000 stock awards were exercised resulting in the issuance of 23,042 common shares. At December 31, 2017, no stock awards remained outstanding.

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Segment Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

Information

With the acquisition of Bolt in 2017, the Company now operates in two reportable segments. The businesses were determined to be separate reportable segments because of differences in their financial characteristics and the methods they employ to deliver product to customers. The operating segments are reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker responsible for reviewing operating performance and allocating resources. The Lawson segment primarily relies on its large network of sales representatives to visit the customer at the customers' work location and provide VMI service and produce sales orders for product that is then shipped to the customer. The Bolt segment primarily sells product to customers when the customers visit one of Bolt's 13 branch locations and the product is delivered to the customers at the spot of sale.

Financial information for the Company's reportable segments follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Net sales
Lawson	$	297,953		$	276,573		$	275,834
Bolt	7,954			—			—
Consolidated total	$	305,907		$	276,573		$	275,834
Gross profit
Lawson	$	179,578		$	168,062		$	169,124
Bolt	3,440			—			—
Consolidated total	$	183,018		$	168,062		$	169,124
Operating Income (loss)
Lawson	$	3,958		$	(1,457	)	$	3,052
Bolt	556			—			—
Gain on sale of property	5,422			—			—
Environmental remediation expense	—			—			(931		)
Consolidated total	9,936			(1,457		)	2,121
Interest expense	(622		)	(496		)	(766		)
Other income (expense), net	780			422			(203		)
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152
Capital expenditures
Lawson	$	1,251		$	3,112		$	2,342
Bolt	5			—			—
Consolidated total	$	1,256		$	3,112		$	2,342
Depreciation and amortization
Lawson	$	6,486		$	8,066		$	8,543
Bolt	284			—			—
Consolidated total	$	6,770		$	8,066		$	8,543
Total assets
Lawson	$	161,076		$	135,307		$	133,094
Bolt	38,423			—			—
Intercompany note receivable	(8,832		)	—			—
Consolidated total	$	190,667		$	135,307		$	133,094

Financial information related to the Company’s continuing operations by geographic area follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Net sales (1)
United States	$	266,994	$	250,824	$	251,129
Canada	38,913		25,749		24,705
Consolidated total	$	305,907	$	276,573	$	275,834
Long-lived assets (2)
United States	$	24,686	$	30,041	$	33,813
Canada	34,322		7,425		242
Consolidated total	$	59,008	$	37,466	$	34,055

(1)    Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of customers.

(2)    Long-lived assets primarily consist of property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangibles and other assets.

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Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations

Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations

Unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized below:

	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2017 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	80,633		$	75,651	$	75,006	$	74,617
Gross profit	$	46,993		$	46,005	$	45,141	$	44,879
Net income	$	20,237		$	1,321	$	7,273	$	857
Basic income per share of common stock	$	2.28		$	0.15	$	0.82	$	0.10
Diluted income per share of common stock (1)	$	2.21		$	0.14	$	0.80	$	0.09
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2016 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	67,315		$	70,199	$	69,348	$	69,711
Gross profit	$	40,504		$	42,573	$	42,526	$	42,459
Net income (loss)	$	(4,643	)	$	1,825	$	172	$	1,017
Basic income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.21	$	0.02	$	0.12
Diluted income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.20	$	0.02	$	0.11

(1) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts may not equal the total annual earnings per share due to rounding and the uneven timing of earnings throughout the year compared to the weighted average shares outstanding.

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Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Notes)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]

Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]

Schedule II -Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

The roll forward of valuation accounts were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Description	Balance at Beginning of Period		Charged to Costs and Expenses			Deductions				Balance at End of Period
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year ended December 31, 2017	$	454	$	499		$	(477	)	(1)	$	476
Year ended December 31, 2016	543		361			(450		)	(1)	454
Year ended December 31, 2015	733		353			(543		)	(1)	543
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets:
Year ended December 31, 2017	$	35,416	$	(32,860	)	$	—			$	2,556
Year ended December 31, 2016	36,516		(1,100		)	—				35,416
Year ended December 31, 2015	36,675		(159		)	—				36,516

(1) Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries and translation adjustments.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Principles of consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and include the accounts and transactions of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current period presentation. Such reclassifications have no effect on net income as previously reported.

Revenue recognition

Net sales include product sales and billings for freight and handling charges. Sales and associated cost of goods sold are generally recognized when products are shipped and title passes to customers. We accrue for returns based on historical evidence of return rates.

Cash equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of the Company’s cash equivalents at December 31, 2017 approximates fair value.

Allowance for doubtful accounts

The Company evaluates the collectability of accounts receivable based on a combination of factors. In circumstances where the Company is aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings, substantial down-grading of credit ratings), a specific reserve for bad debts is recorded against amounts due to reduce the receivable to the amount the Company reasonably believes will be collected. For all other customers, the Company recognizes reserves for bad debts based on the Company’s historical experience of bad debt write-offs as a percent of accounts receivable outstanding. If circumstances change (e.g., higher than expected defaults or an unexpected material adverse change in a major customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations), the estimates of the recoverability of amounts due the Company could be revised by a material amount.

Inventories

Inventories principally consist of finished goods stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in-first-out method. To reduce the cost basis of inventory to a lower of cost or net realizable value, a reserve is recorded for slow-moving and obsolete inventory based on historical experience and monitoring of current inventory activity. Estimates are used to determine the necessity of recording these reserves based on periodic detailed analysis using both qualitative and quantitative factors. As part of this analysis, the Company considers several factors including the inventories length of time on hand, historical sales, product shelf life, product life cycle, product category and product obsolescence.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation expense is computed primarily by the straight-line method for its buildings, machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. The Company estimates useful lives of 20 to 30 years for buildings and improvements and 3 to 10 years for machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles. Amortization of financing and capital leases is included in depreciation expense.

Depreciation expense was $4.7 million, $4.7 million and $4.6 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Capitalized software is amortized over estimated useful lives of 3 to 5 years using the straight-line method. Amortization expense of capitalized software was $1.6 million, $3.1 million and $3.8 million for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Cash value of life insurance

The Company has invested funds in life insurance policies on certain current and former employees. The cash surrender value of the policies is invested in various investment instruments and is recorded as an asset on our consolidated financial statements. The Company records these funds at contractual value. The change in the cash surrender value of the life insurance policies, which is recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses, is the change in the policies' contractual values.

Deferred compensation

The Company’s Executive Deferral Plan (“Deferral Plan”) allows certain executives to defer payment of a portion of their earned compensation. The deferred compensation is recorded in an Account Balance, which is a bookkeeping entry made by the Company to measure the amount due to the participant. The Account Balance is equal to the participant’s deferred compensation, adjusted for increases and/or decreases in the amount that the participant has designated to one or more bookkeeping portfolios that track the performance of certain mutual funds. Lawson adjusts the deferred compensation liability to equal the contractual value of the participants’ Account Balances. These adjustments are the changes in contractual value of the individual plans and are recorded as a component of General and administrative expenses.

Stock-based compensation

Compensation based on the share value of the Company’s common stock is valued at its fair value at the grant date and the expense is recognized over the vesting period. Fair value is re-measured each reporting period for liability-classified awards that may be redeemable in cash.

Goodwill

Goodwill — The Company had $19.6 million and $5.5 million of goodwill in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Goodwill represents the cost of business acquisitions in excess of the fair value of identifiable net tangible and intangible assets acquired. Goodwill is allocated to the appropriate reporting unit, which are the same as the operating segments as reviewed by the Company’s chief operating decision maker responsible for reviewing operating performance and allocating resources. The Company reviews goodwill for potential impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or when an event or other circumstance changes that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the asset below its carrying value.

The first step in the multi-step process to determine if goodwill has been impaired and to what degree is to review the relevant qualitative factors that could cause the fair value of the reporting unit to decrease below the carrying value of the reporting unit. After reviewing the qualitative factors relevant to the reporting units, including conditions surrounding the industry we operate in compared to when the acquisitions were completed, the financial performance of the reporting units compared to our projected results, and macroeconomic conditions as a whole, we have determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units exceed their carrying value, therefore goodwill has not been impaired and no further steps need to be taken.

Intangible Assets — The Company's intangible assets consists of trade names, and customer relationships. Intangible assets are amortized over weighted average 15 and 11 year estimated useful lives for trade names and customer relationships, respectively.

Impairment of long-lived assets

The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and definite life intangibles, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of these assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by a comparison of the assets' carrying amount to their expected future undiscounted net cash flows. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured based on the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. In 2016 the Company determined that a triggering event had occurred when it announced a plan to close its distribution center located in Fairfield, New Jersey. Based on independent offers obtained for the facility, the Company determined that no impairment had occurred. No additional triggering events or impairments occurred in 2017.

Income taxes

Deferred tax assets or liabilities reflect temporary differences between amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting. Such amounts are adjusted, as appropriate, to reflect changes in enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. A valuation allowance is established to offset any deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is more likely than not (i.e. greater than 50% likely) that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The determination of the amount of a valuation allowance to be provided on recorded deferred tax assets involves estimates regarding (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, (3) the impact of tax planning strategies and (4) the ability to carry back deferred tax assets to offset prior taxable income. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including past operating results, projections of future taxable income and the feasibility of ongoing tax planning strategies. The projections of future taxable income include a number of estimates and assumptions regarding our volume, pricing and costs. Additionally, valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets can be impacted by changes to tax laws. Significant judgment is required in determining income tax provisions as well as deferred tax asset and liability balances, including the estimation of valuation allowances and the evaluation of tax positions.

In 2012, due to historical cumulative losses, we had determined it was more likely than not that we would not be able to utilize our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, substantially all of our deferred tax assets were subject to a tax valuation allowance.

We have continued to generate pre-tax profits and have utilized some of our net operating loss carryforwards over the last two years and are now in a three year cumulative income position in the U.S. Based on available evidence, including the utilization of $18.0 million of net operating loss carryforwards in 2017, we have reached a point of increased confidence in our ability to sustain profit levels and we now believe it is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize a substantial amount of our deferred tax assets to offset future taxable income. Therefore, a large portion of our U.S. valuation allowances were released in 2017.

Earnings from the Company's foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. A distribution of these non-U.S. earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise would subject the Company to foreign withholding taxes and may subject the Company to U.S. federal and state taxes.

The Company recognizes the benefit of tax positions when a benefit is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likely) to be sustained on its technical merits. Recognized tax benefits are measured at the largest amount that is more likely than not to be sustained, based on cumulative probability, in final settlement of the position. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

Leases

Leases are categorized as either operating or capital leases at inception. Operating lease costs are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. An asset and a corresponding liability for the capital lease obligation are established for the cost of capital leases. The capital lease obligation is amortized over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term. The Company purchased $0.3 million and $0.2 million of assets financed by capital leases in 2017 and 2016, respectively, in non-cash transactions that were not reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

For build-to-suit financing leases, the Company establishes an asset and liability for the estimated construction costs incurred to the extent that it is involved in the construction of structural improvements or takes construction risk prior to the commencement of the lease. Upon occupancy of facilities under build-to-suit leases, the Company assesses whether these arrangements qualify for sales recognition under the sale-leaseback accounting guidance. If a lease does not meet the criteria to qualify for a sale-leaseback transaction, the established asset and liability remain on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. This asset is depreciated over the life of the lease and the liability is reduced by the non-interest portion of the lease payments for costs allocated to the building and on a straight line basis for costs allocated to land.

Sub-leases [Policy Text Block]

Sub-leases — If the Company is relieved of its primary obligation under the original lease then the original lease is considered to be terminated, otherwise if the Company retains primary obligation under the original lease then the Company continues to account for the original lease and also accounts for the new sub-lease as lessor. At the time the sub-lease is executed, the Company records a gain or loss equal to the difference between the total cash payments to be made for gross rent under the original lease agreement over the life of the sub-lease plus executory costs and total gross rent proceeds expected to be received over the life of the sub-lease.

Earnings per share

Earnings per Share — Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution from the exercise or conversion of outstanding stock options, market stock units and restricted stock awards into common stock.

Foreign Currency

The accounts of foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. All balance sheet amounts are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the applicable period end. Components of income or loss are translated using the average exchange rate for each reporting period.

Gains and losses resulting from changes in the exchange rates from translation of the subsidiary accounts in local currency to U.S. dollars are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income or loss in the consolidated balance sheets. Gains and losses resulting from the effect of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are included as a component of net income or loss upon settlement of the transaction.

Gains and losses resulting from intercompany transactions are included as a component of net income or loss each reporting period unless the transactions are of a long-term-investment nature and settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future, in which case the gains and losses are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive or loss in the consolidated balance sheets.

Treasury stock

The Company repurchased 968, 7,162 and 11,261 shares of its common stock in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, from employees upon the vesting of restricted stock to offset the income taxes owed by those employees. The Company accounts for treasury stock using the cost method and includes treasury stock as a component of stockholders’ equity. The value of the treasury stock repurchased of $20 thousand, $176 thousand and $248 thousand in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions — The Company recognizes identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. While the Company uses its best estimates and assumptions for the purchase price allocation process to value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill.

Use of estimates

Use of Estimates — Preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported for allowance for doubtful accounts. inventory reserves, goodwill and intangible assets valuation, and income taxes in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business, which is intended to help companies evaluate whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses by providing a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is a business. This ASU will be effective commencing with our quarter ending March 31, 2018. Although we do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption, it may have a material impact if applicable transactions occur.

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. This standard eliminates a step from the goodwill impairment test and instead requires an entity to recognize a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the goodwill carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. This guidance is effective for interim and annual goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption is permitted. This guidance must be applied on a prospective basis. We adopted this guidance on January 1, 2017. The adoption of this guidance had no material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash, which requires amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the total beginning and ending amounts for the periods shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-08 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. The Company does not expect the impact on its consolidated financial statements to be material.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) in order to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for those leases classified as operating leases under previous GAAP. ASU 2016-02 requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (including interim periods within those periods) using a modified retrospective approach and early adoption is permitted. The Company will adopt ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of 2019. While the effect of the pronouncement has not yet been quantified, the Company is continuing to evaluate the impact of recording the right-of-use-assets and liabilities on its financial position. The Company anticipates it will be required to record assets and liabilities for leases currently classified as operating leases.

In November, 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This update simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes by requiring all entities that present a classified balance sheet to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as a noncurrent amount. The objective of this ASU is to reduce the cost and complexity of recording deferred taxes without affecting the usefulness of financial statement information. The pronouncement is effective for public entities in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years and the guidance may be applied on either a prospective or retrospective basis. The Company adopted ASU 2015-07 on a prospective basis in 2017.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No.  2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory, which requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which consists of the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable cost of completion, disposal, and transportation. This pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is to be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company adopted ASU 2015-11 on January 1, 2017 and it had no material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

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Inventories (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]

Components of inventories

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Inventories, gross	$	56,492		$	48,038
Reserve for obsolete and excess inventory	(5,564		)	(5,477		)
Inventories, net	$	50,928		$	42,561

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Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]

Components of property, plant and equipment

Components of property, plant and equipment were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Land	$	2,752		$	2,721
Buildings and improvements	16,973			18,981
Machinery and equipment	23,277			22,837
Capitalized software	21,947			21,371
McCook Facility	12,961			12,961
Furniture and fixtures	5,634			5,714
Capital leases	806			534
Vehicles	214			166
Construction in progress	375			571
	84,939			85,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(57,606		)	(54,949		)
	$	27,333		$	30,907

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Acquisitions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block]

A summary of the purchase price allocation of the acquisitions is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Cash paid and liabilities assumed
Cash paid	$	32,286	$	6,030	$	441
Deferred tax liability	3,065		—		—
Other liabilities	2,434		188		—
Contingent consideration	—		412		—
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441
Fair value of assets acquired
Goodwill	$	14,176	$	5,231	$	299
Trade names	7,241		—		—
Inventory	6,315		584		137
Customer relationships	4,186		733		—
Accounts receivable	3,323		—		—
Property, plant and equipment	1,796		—		—
Other assets	748		82		5
	$	37,785	$	6,630	$	441

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustments [Table Text Block]

The following table contains unaudited pro forma net sales and net income (loss) for Lawson Products assuming the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016			2015
Net Sales
Actual	$	305,907	$	276,573		$	275,834
Pro forma	$	331,522	$	308,250		$	283,573
Net income (loss)
Actual	$	29,688	$	(1,629	)	$	297
Pro forma	$	31,083	$	(1,148	)	$	317

The pro forma disclosures in the table above include adjustments for, amortization of intangible assets, interest expense, tax expenses and the impact of pro forma adjustments and acquisition costs to reflect results that are more representative of the combined results of the transactions as if the Bolt acquisition closed on January 1, 2016, the Mattic, F.B Feeney and Perfect Product acquisitions closed on January 1, 2015 and the West Coast acquisition closed on January 1, 2014. This pro forma information utilizes certain estimates, is presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be indicative of the results of operation that would have actually occurred. In addition, future results may vary significantly from the results reflected in the pro forma information. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect the impact of future events that may occur after the acquisition, such as anticipated cost savings from operating synergies.

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Goodwill (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Goodwill [Abstract]

Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]

Goodwill activity related to these acquisitions is included in the table below:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Beginning balance	$	5,520		$	319
Acquisition	14,176			5,231
Impact of foreign exchange	(9		)	(30		)
Adjustment to prior year allocation (1)	(73		)	—
Ending balance	$	19,614		$	5,520

(1) The reduction of $0.1 million in 2017 resulted from a non-cash adjustment to the estimated purchase price allocation to inventory originally recorded in 2016.

Goodwill was tested for impairment in the fourth quarter of 2017 and no adjustment was deemed necessary.

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Intangible assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]

The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

Intangible assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

Amortization expense of $0.4 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million related to intangible assets was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

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Intangible assets Schedule of intangible assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]

Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]

Intangible assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

Amortization expense of $0.4 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million related to intangible assets was recorded in General and administrative expenses for 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization by intangible asset class were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2017							December 31, 2016
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization			Net Carrying Value
Trade names	$	8,182	$	(957	)	$	7,225	$	1,000	$	(787	)	$	213
Customer relationships	4,911		(323		)	4,588		716		(85		)	631
	$	13,093	$	(1,280	)	$	11,813	$	1,716	$	(872	)	$	844

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Intangible assets Future amortization expense (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Future intangible asset amortization expense [Abstract]

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]

The estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years are as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year	Amortization
2018	$	875
2019	1,111
2020	1,254
2021	1,363
2022	1,154
Thereafter	6,056
	$	11,813

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Income Taxes Income Tax (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

Income (loss) from operations before income taxes consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
United States	$	10,159		$	(708	)	$	3,583
Canada	(65		)	(823		)	(2,431		)
	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152

Components of provision (benefit) for income taxes

Provision (benefit) for income taxes from operations for the years ended December 31, consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	296		$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	129			(33		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	1,634		$	67		$	855
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,971	)	$	—		$	—
U.S. state	(3,257		)	31			—
Canada	—			—			—
Total	$	(21,228	)	$	31		$	—
Total income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$	(17,675	)	$	97		$	(461	)
U.S. state	(3,128		)	(2		)	75
Canada	1,209			3			1,241
Total	$	(19,594	)	$	98		$	855

Reconciliation between effective income tax rate and statutory federal rate

The reconciliation between the effective income tax rate and the statutory federal rate for operations was as follows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Statutory federal rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
Change in valuation allowance - reversal	(210.5	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - federal tax rate change	(126.4	)	—		—
Change in valuation allowance - current period activity	(65.7	)	14.5		(86.4	)
Federal tax rate change	126.4		—		—
Foreign income inclusion	29.2		—		—
Change in uncertain tax positions	7.7		0.6		56.2
State and local taxes, net	4.7		(17.4	)	10.4
Alternative minimum tax	3.6		(6.3	)	7.6
Meals & entertainment	1.4		(9.0	)	11.6
Executive life insurance	0.9		(3.1	)	2.4
Provision to return differences	(0.7	)	(4.5	)	24.4
Captive insurance income	0.3		(3.0	)	—
Foreign tax rate differential	0.1		(14.3	)	17.9
Other items, net	(0.1	)	1.1		(4.9	)
Provision for income taxes (benefit)	(194.1	)%	(6.4	)%	74.2	%

Deferred tax assets and liabilities

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities contain the following temporary differences:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017			2016
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward	$	12,120		$	17,518
Compensation and benefits	7,828			12,126
Inventory reserve	1,689			2,750
Capital loss carryforward	1,326			2,210
Accounts receivable reserve	130			183
Other	1,155			1,770
Total deferred tax assets	24,248			36,557
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets	3,115			—
Property, plant and equipment	41			433
Other	403			688
Total deferred liabilities	3,559			1,121
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	20,689			35,436
Valuation allowance	(2,556		)	(35,416		)
Net deferred tax assets	$	18,133		$	20

Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Balance at beginning of year	$	3,249	$	3,136
Additions for tax positions of current year	865		544
Additions for tax positions of prior years	141		116
Reductions for tax positions of prior year	—		(547		)
Balance at end of year	$	4,255	$	3,249

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Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Payables and Accruals [Abstract]

Schedule of accrued expenses and other liabilities

Accrued expenses and other liabilities consisted of the following:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31,
	2017		2016
Accrued compensation	$	9,044	$	5,465
Accrued stock-based compensation (stock performance rights)	8,712		7,859
Accrued and withheld taxes, other than income taxes	1,136		1,149
Financing lease obligation	1,123		996
Accrued profit sharing	894		627
Accrued health benefits	657		676
Accrued severance	483		1,428
Other	10,991		9,089
	$	33,040	$	27,289

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Revolving Line of Credit (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt covenants [Table Text Block]

Quarterly Financial Covenants	Requirement	Actual
EBITDA to fixed charges ratio	1.10 : 1.00	3.62 : 1.00

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Reserve for Severance (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Severance Reserve [Abstract]

Changes in the reserve for severance

The table below reflects the activity in the Company’s reserve for severance and related payments.

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Beginning balance	$	1,710		$	697		$	311
Charged to earnings	738			2,376			1,273
Cash paid	(1,965		)	(1,363		)	(887		)
Ending balance	$	483		$	1,710		$	697

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Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of future minimum lease payments

The Company’s future minimum lease commitments, principally for facilities and equipment, as of December 31, 2017, were as follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
Year ended December 31,	Operating   Leases		Financing   Lease		Capital Leases
2018	$	2,910	$	1,348	$	169
2019	2,590		1,395		112
2020	2,464		1,444		72
2021	2,451		1,493		36
2022	2,255		542		—
Thereafter	1,202		—		—
Total	$	13,872	$	6,222	$	389

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Stock-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Valuation assumptions

The weighted-average estimated value of SPRs outstanding as of December 31, 2017 was $9.83 per SPR using the following assumptions:

Expected volatility	20.5% to 44.2%
Risk-free rate of return	1.2% to 2.2%
Expected term (in years)	0.1 to 4.5
Expected annual dividend	$0

Activity related to SPRs

Activity related to the Company’s SPRs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of SPRs		Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	946,701		$	19.60
Granted	78,948		25.12
Exercised	(34,095	)	12.99
Cancelled	(30,000	)	36.71
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	961,554		9.76
Exercisable on December 31, 2017	702,438		$	17.66

Activity related to RSAs

Activity related to the Company’s RSAs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Restricted Stock Awards
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	31,897
Granted	104,920
Exchanged for shares	(31,897	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	104,920

MSU Rollforward

Market Stock Units ("MSUs") are exchangeable for between 0% to 150% of the Company's common shares at the end of the vesting period based on the trailing 60 day average closing price of the Company's common stock. The value of the MSUs was determined using a geometric brownian motion model that, based on certain variables, generates a large number of random trials simulating the price of the common stock over the measurement period. Expense of $0.9 million, $0.5 million and $0.5 million related to MSUs was recorded in the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Activity related to the Company’s MSUs during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Market Stock Units		Maximum Shares Potentially Issuable
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	149,532		224,298
Granted	98,243		147,365
Cancelled	(25,839	)	(38,759	)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	221,936		332,904

Stock Option Activity Table

Stock Options

Each stock option can be exchanged for one share of the Company’s common stock at the stated exercise price. Activity related to stock options during the year ended December 31, 2017 was as follows:

	Number of Stock Options		Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	45,910		26.55
Granted	40,000		27.01
Exercised	(1,434	)	14.04
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	84,476		26.98

Expense related to stock options was $0.2 million in 2017 and unrecognized compensation at December 31, 2017 was $0.1 million.

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Segment Information Geographic Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Geographic Information [Abstract]

Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block]

Financial information related to the Company’s continuing operations by geographic area follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Net sales (1)
United States	$	266,994	$	250,824	$	251,129
Canada	38,913		25,749		24,705
Consolidated total	$	305,907	$	276,573	$	275,834
Long-lived assets (2)
United States	$	24,686	$	30,041	$	33,813
Canada	34,322		7,425		242
Consolidated total	$	59,008	$	37,466	$	34,055

(1)    Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of customers.

(2)    Long-lived assets primarily consist of property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangibles and other assets.

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Segment Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]

Financial information for the Company's reportable segments follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017			2016			2015
Net sales
Lawson	$	297,953		$	276,573		$	275,834
Bolt	7,954			—			—
Consolidated total	$	305,907		$	276,573		$	275,834
Gross profit
Lawson	$	179,578		$	168,062		$	169,124
Bolt	3,440			—			—
Consolidated total	$	183,018		$	168,062		$	169,124
Operating Income (loss)
Lawson	$	3,958		$	(1,457	)	$	3,052
Bolt	556			—			—
Gain on sale of property	5,422			—			—
Environmental remediation expense	—			—			(931		)
Consolidated total	9,936			(1,457		)	2,121
Interest expense	(622		)	(496		)	(766		)
Other income (expense), net	780			422			(203		)
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	10,094		$	(1,531	)	$	1,152
Capital expenditures
Lawson	$	1,251		$	3,112		$	2,342
Bolt	5			—			—
Consolidated total	$	1,256		$	3,112		$	2,342
Depreciation and amortization
Lawson	$	6,486		$	8,066		$	8,543
Bolt	284			—			—
Consolidated total	$	6,770		$	8,066		$	8,543
Total assets
Lawson	$	161,076		$	135,307		$	133,094
Bolt	38,423			—			—
Intercompany note receivable	(8,832		)	—			—
Consolidated total	$	190,667		$	135,307		$	133,094

Financial information by geographic area, continuing operations

Financial information related to the Company’s continuing operations by geographic area follows:

	(Dollars in thousands)
	Year Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Net sales (1)
United States	$	266,994	$	250,824	$	251,129
Canada	38,913		25,749		24,705
Consolidated total	$	305,907	$	276,573	$	275,834
Long-lived assets (2)
United States	$	24,686	$	30,041	$	33,813
Canada	34,322		7,425		242
Consolidated total	$	59,008	$	37,466	$	34,055

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Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Summary of unaudited quarterly results

Unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized below:

	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2017 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	80,633		$	75,651	$	75,006	$	74,617
Gross profit	$	46,993		$	46,005	$	45,141	$	44,879
Net income	$	20,237		$	1,321	$	7,273	$	857
Basic income per share of common stock	$	2.28		$	0.15	$	0.82	$	0.10
Diluted income per share of common stock (1)	$	2.21		$	0.14	$	0.80	$	0.09
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	2016 Quarter Ended
	Dec. 31			Sep. 30		Jun. 30		Mar. 31
Net sales	$	67,315		$	70,199	$	69,348	$	69,711
Gross profit	$	40,504		$	42,573	$	42,526	$	42,459
Net income (loss)	$	(4,643	)	$	1,825	$	172	$	1,017
Basic income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.21	$	0.02	$	0.12
Diluted income (loss) per share of common stock (1)	$	(0.53	)	$	0.20	$	0.02	$	0.11

(1) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts may not equal the total annual earnings per share due to rounding and the uneven timing of earnings throughout the year compared to the weighted average shares outstanding.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Depreciation	$ 4,700,000	$ 4,700,000	$ 4,600,000
Amortization expense of capitalized software	$ 1,600,000	$ 3,100,000	$ 3,800,000
Treasury stock, shares acquired	968	7,162	11,261
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	$ 178,000
non-cash purchase of assets	300,000	$ 200,000
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock	(20,000)	(176,000)	$ (248,000)
Goodwill	19,614,000	5,520,000	319,000
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method	$ (20,000)	(176,000)	(248,000)
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	20 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years
Machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, and vehicles | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures, and vehicles | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
Capitalized software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Capitalized software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	5 years
Treasury Stock
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method	$ (20,000)	$ (176,000)	$ (248,000)
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	40,000	80,000	40,000
Anti dilutive securities excluded from EPS computation due to net loss	164,000
Trade Names [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period	15 years
Customer Relationships [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period	11 years

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Restricted Cash Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Restricted Cash [Abstract]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current	$ 800	$ 800

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Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of inventories
Total	$ 56,492	$ 48,038
Reserve for obsolete and excess inventory	(5,564)	(5,477)
Inventories, net	$ 50,928	$ 42,561

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Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 84,939	$ 85,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization,	(57,606)	(54,949)
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization	27,333	30,907
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	2,752	2,721
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	16,973	18,981
Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	23,277	22,837
Capitalized software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	21,947	21,371
McCook facility
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	12,961	12,961
Accumulated depreciation and amortization,	(7,200)
Furniture and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	5,634	5,714
Capital leases
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	806	534
Accumulated depreciation and amortization,	(400)
Vehicles
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	214	166
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 375	$ 571

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Property, Plant and Equipment Fairfielf Disposal (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fairfield Disposal [Abstract]
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment	$ 6,177	$ 0	$ 3
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property	$ 5,422	$ 0	$ 0

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Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$ 32,286	$ 6,030	$ 441
Finite-Lived Customer Relationships, Gross	$ 4,186	733	0
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	5 years
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability	$ 0	412	$ 0
Bolt [Member] [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	32,286
Mattic [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	3,454
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability	298
Feeney [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	1,326
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability	84
Perfect Products [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	1,250
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability	$ 30
West Coast [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross		$ 441

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Acquisitions Purchase Price Allocation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Pro Forma [Abstract]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$ 32,286	$ 6,030	$ 441
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities	3,065	0	0
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability	0	412	0
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities	2,434	188	0
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	37,785	6,630	441
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	14,176	5,231	299
Finite-Lived Trade Names, Gross	7,241	0	0
Finite-Lived Customer Relationships, Gross	4,186	733	0
Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value	3,323	0	0
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment	1,796	0	0
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory	6,315	584	137
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Other	$ 748	$ 82	$ 5

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Acquisitions Pro Forma Results (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Pro Forma [Abstract]
Revenue, Net	$ (80,633)	$ (75,651)	$ (75,006)	$ (74,617)	$ (67,315)	$ (70,199)	$ (69,348)	$ (69,711)	$ (305,907)	$ (276,573)	$ (275,834)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue									331,522	308,250	283,573
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$ 20,237	$ 1,321	$ 7,273	$ 857	$ (4,643)	$ 1,825	$ 172	$ 1,017	$ 29,688	(1,629)	297
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)										$ (1,148)	$ 317

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Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Abstract]
Goodwill	$ 19,614	$ 5,520	$ 319
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	14,176	5,231	$ 299
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments	(9)	(30)
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	$ (73)	$ 0

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Intangible assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$ 400	$ 100	$ 100
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	$ 875

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Intangible assets Schedule of intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	$ 13,093	$ 1,716
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(1,280)	(872)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	11,813	844
Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	8,182	1,000
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(957)	(787)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	7,225	213
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	4,911	716
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(323)	(85)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 4,588	$ 631

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Intangible assets Future intangible amortization schedule (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Future intangible amortization schedule [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	$ 875
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	1,111
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	1,254
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	1,363
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five	1,154
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five	6,056
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 11,813	$ 844

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Income Taxes Components of income tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
United States	$ 10,159	$ (708)	$ 3,583
Canada	(65)	(823)	(2,431)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	10,094	(1,531)	1,152
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. Federal	296	97	(461)
U.S. state	129	(33)	75
Canada	1,209	3	1,241
Total	1,634	67	855
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(17,971)	0	0
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(3,257)	31	0
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	0	0	0
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(21,228)	31	0
Total income tax expense (benefit):
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	(17,675)	97	(461)
State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	(3,128)	(2)	75
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	1,209	3	1,241
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ (19,594)	$ 98	$ 855

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Income Taxes Reconciliation of effective tax rate (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Statutory Federal rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Change in deferred tax asset valuation allowance reversal	(210.50%)	0.00%	0.00%
Change in deferred tax asset valuation allowance - federal tax rate change	(126.40%)	0.00%	0.00%
Increase (decrease) resulting from:
State and local taxes, net	4.70%	(17.40%)	10.40%
Change in valuation allowance	(65.70%)	14.50%	(86.40%)
Change in federal tax rate	126.40%	0.00%	0.00%
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Percent	29.20%	0.00%	0.00%
Foreign tax rate differential	0.10%	(14.30%)	17.90%
Meals & entertainment	1.40%	(9.00%)	11.60%
Alternative minimum tax	3.60%	(6.30%)	7.60%
Provision to return differences	(0.70%)	(4.50%)	24.40%
Executive life insurance	0.90%	(3.10%)	2.40%
Captive insurance income	0.30%	(3.00%)	0.00%
Change in uncertain tax positions	7.70%	0.60%	56.20%
Other items, net	(0.10%)	1.10%	(4.90%)
Provision for income taxes	(194.10%)	(6.40%)	74.20%

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Income Taxes Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 12,120	$ 17,518
Compensation and benefits	7,828	12,126
Inventory reserve	1,689	2,750
Capital Loss Carryforward	1,326	2,210
Accounts receivable reserve	130	183
Other	1,155	1,770
Total deferred tax assets	24,248	36,557
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets	3,115	0
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment	41	433
Other	403	688
Total deferred liabilities	3,559	1,121
Net deferred assets before valuation allowance	20,689	35,436
Valuation allowance	(2,556)	(35,416)
Net deferred assets	$ 18,133	$ 20

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Income Taxes Other information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax (Textual) [Abstract]
Income taxes paid		$ 300	$ 200	$ 100
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount	$ 4,600
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic	18,000	18,000
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries	(8,400)	(8,400)
Goodwill	19,614	19,614	5,520	319
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year		3,249	3,136
Additions for tax positions of current year		865	544
Additions for tax positions of prior years		141	116
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		0	(547)
Balance at end of year	4,255	4,255	$ 3,249	$ 3,136
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	23,400	23,400
US Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 28,800	$ 28,800

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Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued stock based compensation	$ 8,712	$ 7,859
Accrued compensation	9,044	5,465
Accrued severance	483	1,428
Accrued and withheld taxes, other than income taxes	1,136	1,149
Financing lease obligation	1,123	996
Accrued health benefits	657	676
Accrued profit sharing	894	627
Other	10,991	9,089
Accrued Liabilities, Current	$ 33,040	$ 27,289

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Loan Agreement Quarterly Financial Covenants (Details) - Minimum	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Required Minimum Value [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
EBITDA to Fixed Charges	1.00
Actual Value [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
EBITDA to Fixed Charges	1.00

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Loan Agreement Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Bank Overdrafts	$ 5,500,000
Secured Debt, Current	$ 14,543,000	$ 841,000
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Eligible accounts receivables percentage	85.00%
Eligible accounts receivables past due days	60 days
Eligible inventory percentage	60.00%
Eligible inventory expected to be sold period	18 months
Maximum borrowing amount based on inventory	$ 20,000,000
Interest Paid	$ 600,000	$ 200,000	$ 500,000
Weighted average interest rate	3.20%
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$ 1,700,000
Excess cash capacity	$ 10,000,000
Maximum
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Spread on LIBOR	1.85%
Dividends restricted amount	$ 7,000,000.0
Minimum
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Spread on LIBOR	1.50%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	$ 40,000,000
Letter of Credit [Member]
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Credit facility, borrowing capacity	10,000,000
Lawson [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Secured Debt, Current	13,626,000
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Credit Facility, remaining borrowing capacity	22,800,000
Bolt [Member] [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Secured Debt, Current	1,153,000
Credit Facility (Textual) [Abstract]
Credit Facility, remaining borrowing capacity	$ 4,300,000

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Reserve for Severance Activity in reserve (Details) - Employee Severance [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reserve for severance and related payments
Balance at beginning of period	$ 1,710	$ 697	$ 311
Charged to earnings current year	738	2,376	1,273
Cash paid and exchange rate variance	(1,965)	(1,363)	(887)
Balance at end of the period	$ 483	$ 1,710	$ 697

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Retirement and Security Bonus Plans Retirement and Security Bonus Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
401k Employer matching contributions	$ 3,100	$ 3,100	$ 2,900
Employer contributions, profit sharing retirement plan	900	600	800
Retirement and Security Bonus Plans
Cash Surrender Value, Fair Value Disclosure	4,500
Multiemployer Plans, Plan Assets	$ 42
Security bonus plan
Retirement and Security Bonus Plans
Initial vesting percentage	25.00%
Minimum vesting period	5 years
Annual vesting percentage after initial period	5.00%
Expense recognized	$ 500	$ 400	$ 400

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Commitments and Contingencies Future minimum lease payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($)
Operating leases:
2017	$ 2,910
2018	2,590
2019	2,464
2020	2,451
2021	2,255
Thereafter	1,202
Liability	13,872
Financing lease:
2017	1,348
2018	1,395
2019	1,444
2020	1,493
2021	542
Thereafter	0
Total	6,222
Capital leases:
2017	169
2018	112
2019	72
2020	36
2021	0
Thereafter	0
Total	$ 389

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Commitments and Contingencies Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Total rental expense	$ 2,600	$ 2,200	$ 2,000
Total future minimum operating lease payments	13,872
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable	500
Total future minimum lease payments of McCook facility	6,222
Property, plant and equipment, gross	84,939	85,856
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	57,606	54,949
Environmental Remediation Expense	0	0	$ 931
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies	1,000
Headquarters
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Total future minimum operating lease payments	6,400
McCook facility
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	12,961	12,961
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	7,200
Capital leases
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	806	$ 534
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	400
Minimum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost	300
Maximum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost	$ 1,400

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Plan Administration (Details) - 2009 Equity Compensation Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017 shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available for grant	140,000
Maximum number of shares per employee	40,000

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Stock Performance Rights (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Performance Rights
Accrued Employee Benefits, Current	$ 8,712,000	$ 7,859,000
Valuation assumptions:
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 200,000
Number of SPRs
Exercised	(40,000)
Stock Performance Rights
Stock Performance Rights
Weighted average estimated value of SPRs outstanding (per share)	$ 9.83
Valuation assumptions:
Expected volatility, minimum, percent	20.50%
Expected volatility, maximum, percent	44.20%
Risk-free rate of return, minimum	1.20%
Risk-free rate of return, maximum	2.20%
Expected annual dividend	$ 0.00
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 900,000
Number of SPRs
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	946,701
Granted	78,948
Exercised	(34,095)
Cancelled	(30,000)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	961,554	946,701
Exercisable on December 31, 2017	702,438
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	$ 19.60
Granted	25.12
Exercised	12.99
Cancelled	36.71
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	9.76	$ 19.60
Exercisable on December 31, 2017	$ 17.66
SPRs outstanding, intrinsic value	$ 6,300,000
Total unrecognized compensation cost	$ 1,700,000
Unrecognized cost, period for recognition	1 year 10 months 24 days
Exercised	152,232
Vested in period, fair value	$ 800,000
Weighted average remaining contractual term, SPRs outstanding	4 years 8 months
Weighted average remaining contractual term, SPRs exercisable	4 years 5 months
Stock Performance Rights | Minimum
Stock Performance Rights
Life of award	7 years
Award vesting period	1 year
Valuation assumptions:
Expected term	1 month 6 days
Stock Performance Rights | Maximum
Stock Performance Rights
Life of award	10 years
Award vesting period	3 years
Valuation assumptions:
Expected term	4 years 6 months

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Restricted Stock Awards (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 0.2
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	31,897
Granted	104,920
Exchanged for shares	(31,897)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	104,920	31,897
Total unrecognized compensation cost	$ 1.7
Unrecognized cost, period for recognition	1 year 10 months 24 days
Granted	$ 22.73
2009 Equity Compensation Plan | Restricted stock awards | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	1 year
2009 Equity Compensation Plan | Restricted stock awards | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	3 years
Selling, general and administrative expenses | Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 0.9	$ 0.6	$ 0.6

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Market Stock Units (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
MSU Expense	$ 900,000	$ 500,000	$ 500,000
Number of Market Stock Units
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	149,532
Granted	98,243
Cancelled	(25,839)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	221,936	149,532
Maximum Shares Potentially Issuable
Outstanding on December 31, 2016	224,298
Granted	147,365
Cancelled	(38,759)
Outstanding on December 31, 2017	332,904	224,298
Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Potential Shares From MSU Vest	$ 0
Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Potential Shares From MSU Vest	$ 1.50
Trading days	60 days

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Stock Options (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($)
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 0.2
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options	$ 0.1

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Stock-Based Compensation Plans Stock Awards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017 shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Exercised	40,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period	23,042
Stock award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding at end of period	0

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Segment Information Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue, Net	$ 80,633	$ 75,651	$ 75,006	$ 74,617	$ 67,315	$ 70,199	$ 69,348	$ 69,711	$ 305,907	$ 276,573	$ 275,834
Lawson [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue, Net									$ 297,953	$ 276,573	$ 275,834

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Segment Information (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Interest Expense									$ 622,000	$ 496,000	$ 766,000
Net sales	$ 80,633,000	$ 75,651,000	$ 75,006,000	$ 74,617,000	$ 67,315,000	$ 70,199,000	$ 69,348,000	$ 69,711,000	305,907,000	276,573,000	275,834,000
Gross Profit	46,993,000	$ 46,005,000	$ 45,141,000	$ 44,879,000	40,504,000	$ 42,573,000	$ 42,526,000	$ 42,459,000	183,018,000	168,062,000	169,124,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property									5,422,000	0	0
Other Operating Income (Expense), Net									0	0	(931,000)
Operating Income (Loss)									9,936,000	(1,457,000)	2,121,000
Long-Lived Assets	59,008,000				37,466,000				59,008,000	37,466,000	34,055,000
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)									780,000	422,000	(203,000)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest									10,094,000	(1,531,000)	1,152,000
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment									1,256,000	3,112,000	2,342,000
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization									6,770,000	8,066,000	8,543,000
Assets	190,667,000				135,307,000				190,667,000	135,307,000	133,094,000
Notes Receivable, Related Parties	(8,832,000)				0				(8,832,000)	0	0
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									266,994,000	250,824,000	251,129,000
Long-Lived Assets	24,686,000				30,041,000				24,686,000	30,041,000	33,813,000
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									38,913,000	25,749,000	24,705,000
Long-Lived Assets	34,322,000				7,425,000				34,322,000	7,425,000	242,000
Lawson [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									297,953,000	276,573,000	275,834,000
Gross Profit									179,578,000	168,062,000	169,124,000
Operating Income (Loss)									3,958,000	(1,457,000)	3,052,000
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment									1,251,000	3,112,000	2,342,000
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization									6,486,000	8,066,000	8,543,000
Assets	161,076,000				135,307,000				161,076,000	135,307,000	133,094,000
Bolt [Member] [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									7,954,000	0	0
Gross Profit									3,440,000	0	0
Operating Income (Loss)									556,000	0	0
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment									5,000	0	0
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization									284,000	0	0
Assets	$ 38,423,000				$ 0				$ 38,423,000	$ 0	$ 0

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Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 80,633	$ 75,651	$ 75,006	$ 74,617	$ 67,315	$ 70,199	$ 69,348	$ 69,711	$ 305,907	$ 276,573	$ 275,834
Gross profit	46,993	46,005	45,141	44,879	40,504	42,573	42,526	42,459	183,018	168,062	169,124
Net income (loss)	$ 20,237	$ 1,321	$ 7,273	$ 857	$ (4,643)	$ 1,825	$ 172	$ 1,017	$ 29,688	$ (1,629)	$ 297
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ 2.28	$ 0.15	$ 0.82	$ 0.10	$ (0.53)	$ 0.21	$ 0.02	$ 0.12	$ 3.35	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ 2.21	$ 0.14	$ 0.80	$ 0.09	$ (0.53)	$ 0.20	$ 0.02	$ 0.11	$ 3.25	$ (0.19)	$ 0.03

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Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
The roll forward of valuation accounts were as follows:
Balance at beginning of period	$ 454	$ 543	$ 733
Charged to costs and expenses	499	361	353
Deductions	(477)	(450)	(543)
Balance at end of period	476	454	543
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets:
The roll forward of valuation accounts were as follows:
Balance at beginning of period	35,416	36,516	36,675
Charged to costs and expenses	(32,860)	(1,100)	(159)
Deductions	0	0	0
Balance at end of period	$ 2,556	$ 35,416	$ 36,516