10-Q 1 srcl-20130930x10q.htm 10-Q SRCL-2013.09.30-10Q
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
x     QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013 or
¨     TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from             to             
Commission File Number 0-21229
 
Stericycle, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Delaware
 
36-3640402
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
28161 North Keith Drive
Lake Forest, Illinois 60045
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(847) 367-5910
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.           YES x NO ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).                                                                                                                                                        YES x NO ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer x
  
Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨
  
Smaller reporting company ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
YES ¨ NO x
As of November 1, 2013 there were 85,710,402 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock outstanding.




Stericycle, Inc.
Table of Contents
 
 
Page No.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




PART I. – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)

In thousands, except share and per share data
 
September 30,
2013
 
December 31,
2012
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
63,580

 
$
31,324

Short-term investments
447

 
503

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $18,268 in 2013 and $19,443 in 2012
370,077

 
322,246

Deferred income taxes
22,181

 
22,995

Prepaid expenses
30,909

 
27,042

Other current assets
40,778

 
37,176

Total Current Assets
527,972

 
441,286

Property, plant and equipment, net
352,368

 
335,870

Goodwill
2,207,845

 
2,065,103

Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $82,180 in 2013 and $64,215 in 2012
720,811

 
667,471

Other assets
36,133

 
37,008

Total Assets
$
3,845,129

 
$
3,546,738

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Current portion of long-term debt
$
107,577

 
$
87,781

Accounts payable
82,552

 
74,225

Accrued liabilities
135,472

 
124,261

Deferred revenues
19,491

 
18,095

Other current liabilities
66,512

 
26,698

Total Current Liabilities
411,604

 
331,060

Long-term debt, net of current portion
1,295,592

 
1,268,303

Deferred income taxes
384,110

 
359,780

Other liabilities
31,090

 
30,272

Equity:
 
 
 
Common stock (par value $.01 per share, 120,000,000 shares authorized, 85,692,918 issued and outstanding in 2013 and 85,987,883 issued and outstanding in 2012)
857

 
860

Additional paid-in capital
177,706

 
116,720

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(54,998
)
 
(39,064
)
Retained earnings
1,581,964

 
1,463,277

Total Stericycle, Inc.’s Equity
1,705,529

 
1,541,793

Noncontrolling interest
17,204

 
15,530

Total Equity
1,722,733

 
1,557,323

Total Liabilities and Equity
$
3,845,129

 
$
3,546,738

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


1


STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)

In thousands, except share and per share data
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Revenues
$
534,579

 
$
480,484

 
$
1,574,908

 
$
1,409,511

Costs and Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of revenues (exclusive of depreciation shown below)
280,645

 
253,526

 
826,703

 
746,540

Depreciation - cost of revenues
12,531

 
11,404

 
36,856

 
32,622

Selling, general and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)
96,689

 
92,966

 
282,580

 
259,246

Depreciation – selling, general and administrative expenses
2,610

 
2,480

 
8,373

 
6,892

Amortization
6,709

 
5,561

 
19,884

 
15,675

Total Costs and Expenses
399,184

 
365,937

 
1,174,396

 
1,060,975

Income from Operations
135,395

 
114,547

 
400,512

 
348,536

Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
151

 
117

 
420

 
333

Interest expense
(13,467
)
 
(13,048
)
 
(40,028
)
 
(38,597
)
Other expense, net
(1,341
)
 
(488
)
 
(2,899
)
 
(556
)
Total Other Expense
(14,657
)
 
(13,419
)
 
(42,507
)
 
(38,820
)
Income Before Income Taxes
120,738

 
101,128

 
358,005

 
309,716

Income Tax Expense
39,906

 
35,382

 
123,508

 
110,283

Net Income
$
80,832

 
$
65,746

 
$
234,497

 
$
199,433

Less: Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
285

 
269

 
1,289

 
1,506

Net Income Attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
80,547

 
$
65,477

 
$
233,208

 
$
197,927

Earnings Per Common Share Attributable to Stericycle, Inc. Common Shareholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.94

 
$
0.76

 
$
2.71

 
$
2.32

Diluted
$
0.92

 
$
0.75

 
$
2.67

 
$
2.28

Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
85,849,656

 
85,748,998

 
86,021,764

 
85,251,002

Diluted
87,401,565

 
87,305,779

 
87,497,276

 
86,911,229

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


2


STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)

In thousands
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Net Income
$
80,832

 
$
65,746

 
$
234,497

 
$
199,433


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Comprehensive Income/ (Loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
23,549

 
16,332

 
(17,070
)
 
4,437

Amortization of cash flow hedge into income, net of tax ($50 and $54, and $150 and $163) for the three- and nine-months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively)
79

 
374

 
236

 
545

     Total Other Comprehensive Income/ (Loss)
23,628

 
16,706

 
(16,834
)
 
4,982


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive Income
104,460

 
82,452

 
217,663

 
204,415

Less: Comprehensive Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
347

 
841

 
389

 
2,106

Comprehensive Income Attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
104,113

 
$
81,611

 
$
217,274

 
$
202,309

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



3


STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
In thousands
  
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Net income
$
234,497

 
$
199,433

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Loss on sale of business

 
4,867

Change in fair value of contingent consideration
(307
)
 
591

Stock compensation expense
12,088

 
12,346

Excess tax benefit of stock options exercised
(12,354
)
 
(20,994
)
Depreciation
45,229

 
39,514

Amortization
19,884

 
15,675

Deferred income taxes
15,623

 
25,462

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions and divestitures:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
(43,816
)
 
(4,657
)
Accounts payable
2,647

 
7,246

Accrued liabilities
21,322

 
(14,945
)
Deferred revenues
(614
)
 
615

Other assets and liabilities
41,084

 
11,994

Net cash provided by operating activities
335,283

 
277,147

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired
(131,902
)
 
(148,073
)
Proceeds from/ (purchase of) short-term investments
45

 
(49
)
Proceeds from sale of business and other assets

 
764

Capital expenditures
(54,329
)
 
(51,658
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(186,186
)
 
(199,016
)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Repayment of long-term debt and other obligations
(48,858
)
 
(70,630
)
Borrowings on foreign bank debt
164,669

 
74,350

Repayments on foreign bank debt
(163,941
)
 
(47,636
)
Borrowings on senior credit facility
731,015

 
532,701

Repayments on senior credit facility
(725,940
)
 
(629,302
)
Payments of deferred financing costs

 
(148
)
Payments on capital lease obligations
(2,623
)
 
(2,559
)
Purchase and cancellation of treasury stock
(114,531
)
 
(2,945
)
Payments to noncontrolling interests
(1,018
)
 
(5,317
)
Payments of dividends to noncontrolling interests

 
(398
)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
33,827

 
44,879

Excess tax benefit of stock options exercised
12,354

 
20,994

Net cash used in financing activities
(115,046
)
 
(86,011
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(1,795
)
 
1,574

Net increase/ (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
32,256

 
(6,306
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
31,324

 
22,511

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
63,580

 
$
16,205


 
 
 
NON-CASH ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Net issuance of obligations for acquisitions
$
88,530

 
$
56,361

Net issuance of obligations for noncontrolling interest
2,113

 
5,901

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

4


STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and
Year Ended December 31, 2012
(Unaudited)

In thousands
 
Stericycle, Inc. Equity
 
 
 
 
 
Issued
and
Outstanding
Shares
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interest
 
Total Equity
Balance at January 1, 2012
84,696

 
$
847

 
$

 
$
1,243,303

 
$
(45,984
)
 
$
29,085

 
$
1,227,251

Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
267,996

 
 
 
1,945

 
269,941

Currency translation adjustment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6,292

 
509

 
6,801

Change in qualifying cash flow hedge, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
628

 
 
 
628

Issuance of common stock for exercise of options and employee stock purchases
1,855

 
19

 
68,444

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
68,463

Purchase/ cancellation of treasury stock
(563
)
 
(6
)
 

 
(48,022
)
 
 
 
 
 
(48,028
)
Stock compensation expense
 
 
 
 
16,339

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
16,339

Excess tax benefit of stock options exercised
 
 
 
 
30,161

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30,161

Noncontrolling interests attributable to acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,386

 
4,386

Reduction to noncontrolling interests due to additional ownership
 
 
 
 
1,958

 
 
 
 
 
(19,997
)
 
(18,039
)
Payments to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
(182
)
 
 
 
 
 
(398
)
 
(580
)
Balance at December 31, 2012
85,988

 
$
860

 
$
116,720

 
$
1,463,277

 
$
(39,064
)
 
$
15,530

 
$
1,557,323

Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
233,208

 
 
 
1,289

 
234,497

Currency translation adjustment
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(16,170
)
 
(900
)
 
(17,070
)
Change in qualifying cash flow hedge, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
236

 
 
 
236

Issuance of common stock for exercise of options, restricted stock units and employee stock purchases
741

 
7

 
36,749

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
36,756

Purchase/ cancellation of treasury stock
(1,036
)
 
(10
)
 

 
(114,521
)
 
 
 
 
 
(114,531
)
Stock compensation expense
 
 
 
 
12,088

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12,088

Excess tax benefit of stock options exercised
 
 
 
 
12,354

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12,354

Noncontrolling interests attributable to acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,211

 
4,211

Reduction to noncontrolling interests due to additional ownership
 
 
 
 
(205
)
 
 
 
 
 
(2,926
)
 
(3,131
)
Balance at September 30, 2013
85,693

 
$
857

 
$
177,706

 
$
1,581,964

 
$
(54,998
)
 
$
17,204

 
$
1,722,733

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


5


STERICYCLE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Unless the context requires otherwise, “we”, “us” or “our” refers to Stericycle, Inc. and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.
NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. However, the Company believes the disclosures included in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. In our opinion, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation for the periods presented have been reflected and are of a normal recurring nature. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Stericycle, Inc. and Subsidiaries Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2012, as filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012. The results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for the entire year ending December 31, 2013.
Certain amounts in previously issued financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. The following reclassifications were made to our 2012 balance sheet and statement of cash flows:
related to product reimbursement liabilities
in our balance sheet as of December 31, 2012, $11.1 million was reclassified from accrued liabilities to other current liabilities;
in our statement of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, $14.0 million was reclassified within operating activities from accrued liabilities to other assets and liabilities.
There were no material changes in the Company’s critical accounting policies since the filing of its 2012 Form 10-K. As discussed in the 2012 Form 10-K, the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amount of reported assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the periods reported. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
We have evaluated subsequent events through the date of filing this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. No events have occurred that would require adjustment to or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.

6


NOTE 2 – ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES
The following table summarizes the locations of our acquisitions for the nine months ended September 30, 2013:

Acquisition Locations
 
2013
United States
 
12

Argentina
 
3

Brazil
 
2

Canada
 
2

Chile
 
1

Japan
 
3

Mexico
 
1

Portugal
 
2

Romania
 
4

Spain
 
2

United Kingdom
 
9

Total
 
41

During the quarter ended March 31, 2013, we completed twelve regulated waste acquisitions. Domestically, we acquired selected assets of one business. Internationally, we acquired 100% of the stock of one business in each of Canada, Chile, Portugal, and Romania and of three businesses in the United Kingdom. In addition, we acquired selected assets of two businesses in Japan, one in Spain, and one in the United Kingdom.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2013, we completed twelve acquisitions. Domestically, we acquired the selected assets of four regulated waste businesses. Internationally, in Brazil we acquired 100% of the stock of one regulated waste business and 70% of another regulated waste business. In the United Kingdom, we acquired 100% of the stock of a recall and returns business and 100% of the stock of a regulated waste business. In addition, we acquired selected assets of one regulated waste business in each of Japan, Portugal, Romania, and the United Kingdom.
During the quarter ended September 30, 2013, we completed seventeen acquisitions. Domestically we acquired the selected assets of five regulated waste businesses, one patient communication services, and 100% of the stock of another patient communication businesses. Internationally, we acquired selected assets of two regulated waste businesses in Romania, and one in Argentina. In addition, we acquired 100% of the stock of two patient communication services companies in the United Kingdom, two regulated waste businesses in Argentina, one in Canada, one in Spain, and in Mexico we acquired 51% stock of a regulated waste business.
The following table summarizes the aggregate purchase price paid for acquisitions and other adjustments of consideration to be paid for acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30:

7


In thousands
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
Cash
$
131,902

 
$
148,073

Promissory notes
56,602

 
24,496

Deferred consideration
28,550

 
18,259

Contingent consideration
3,378

 
13,606

Total purchase price
$
220,432

 
$
204,434

For financial reporting purposes, our 2013 and 2012 acquisitions were accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. These acquisitions resulted in recognition of goodwill in our financial statements reflecting the premium paid to acquire businesses that we believe are complementary to our existing operations and fit our growth strategy. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recognized a net increase in goodwill of $153.5 million excluding the effect of foreign currency translation (see Note 9 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). A net increase of $62.8 million was assigned to our United States reporting segment, and $90.7 million was assigned to our International reporting segment. Approximately $70.2 million of the goodwill recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 will be deductible for income taxes.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recognized a net increase in intangible assets of $79.8 million excluding the effect of foreign currency translation. The changes include $67.9 million in the estimated fair value of acquired customer relationships with amortizable lives of 15 to 40 years, $5.8 million in permits with indefinite lives, $5.8 million in tradename with indefinite life, $0.1 million in tradenames with amortizable lives of 10 to 15 years, and $0.2 million in non-competes with amortizable life of 5 years.
The purchase prices for these acquisitions in excess of acquired tangible assets have been primarily allocated to goodwill and other intangibles and are preliminary, pending completion of certain intangible asset valuations and completion accounts. The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price allocation for current period acquisitions and other adjustments to purchase price allocations during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
In thousands
Fixed assets
$
10,683

Intangibles
79,798

Goodwill
153,482

Net other assets/ (liabilities)
(3,156
)
Debt
(3,642
)
Net deferred tax liabilities
(12,521
)
Noncontrolling interests
(4,212
)
Total purchase price allocation
$
220,432


During the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the Company incurred $6.2 million and $6.2 million, respectively, of acquisition related expenses. These expenses are included with SG&A on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

8


NOTE 3 – NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Accounting Standards Recently Adopted
Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment

On January 1, 2013 we adopted guidance allowing a company to perform a qualitative assessment in determining whether an indefinite lived intangible asset is impaired. This new guidance is similar to the previously issued guidance allowing a qualitative assessment when performing annual goodwill impairment testing. The guidance also changes when a company should perform an interim period test for impairment, allowing for positive evidence to offset negative evidence when determining whether an interim impairment test is required. The new guidance does not affect the ultimate outcome of an impairment test; therefore there is no impact on our financial statements. We perform our annual test for impairment for indefinite lived intangibles in the fourth quarter.

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Adopted
Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists

In July of 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists at the reporting date. An unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except in certain circumstances. To the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is available is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. For example, an entity should not evaluate whether the deferred tax asset expires before the statute of limitations on the tax position or whether the deferred tax asset may be used prior to the unrecognized tax benefit being settled. Both prospective and retrospective application may be applied. This guidance becomes effective for us beginning January 1, 2014; we are in the process of evaluating retrospective versus prospective application. This update affects presentation only.
NOTE 4 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

9


Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3 – Inputs that are generally unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimate of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment, and may affect the valuation of assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. The impact of our creditworthiness has been considered in the fair value measurements noted below. In addition, the fair value measurement of a liability must reflect the nonperformance risk of an entity.
In thousands
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements Using
 
Total as of
September 30, 2013
 
Level 1
Inputs
 
Level 2
Inputs
 
Level 3
Inputs
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
63,580

 
$
63,580

 
$

 
$

Short-term investments
447

 
447

 

 

Total assets
$
64,027

 
$
64,027

 
$

 
$

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration
$
13,943

 
$

 
$

 
$
13,943

Total liabilities
$
13,943

 
$

 
$

 
$
13,943

In thousands
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements Using
 
Total as of
December 31, 2012
 
Level 1
Inputs
 
Level 2
Inputs
 
Level 3
Inputs
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
31,324

 
$
31,324

 
$

 
$

Short-term investments
503

 
503

 

 

Total assets
$
31,827

 
$
31,827

 
$

 
$

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingent consideration
$
18,511

 
$

 
$

 
$
18,511

Total liabilities
$
18,511

 
$

 
$

 
$
18,511

We had contingent consideration liabilities recorded using Level 3 inputs in the amount of $13.9 million, of which $8.5 million is classified as current liabilities at September 30, 2013, and $18.5 million at December 31, 2012. Contingent consideration represents amounts to be paid as part of acquisition consideration only if certain future events occur. These events are usually acquisition targets for revenues or earnings. We arrive at the fair value of contingent consideration by applying a weighted probability of potential outcomes to the maximum possible payout. The calculation of these potential outcomes is dependent on both past financial performance and management assumptions about future performance. If the financial performance measures were all fully met, our maximum liability would be $15.1 million at September 30, 2013. Contingent consideration liabilities are reassessed each quarter and are reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as part of “Other current liabilities” or “Other liabilities”. Changes to contingent consideration are reflected in the table below:

10


In thousands
Contingent consideration at December 31, 2012
$
18,511

Increases due to acquisitions
3,378

Decrease due to payments
(6,745
)
Changes due to currency fluctuations
(894
)
Changes in fair value reflected in Selling, general, and administrative expenses
(307
)
Contingent consideration at September 30, 2013
$
13,943

Fair Value of Debt: At September 30, 2013, the fair value of the Company’s debt obligations was estimated, using Level 2 inputs, at $1.39 billion compared to a carrying amount of $1.40 billion. At December 31, 2012, the fair value of the Company’s debt obligations was estimated, using Level 2 inputs, at $1.39 billion compared to a carrying amount of $1.36 billion. The fair values were estimated using an income approach by applying market interest rates for comparable instruments. The Company has no current plans to retire a significant amount of its debt prior to maturity.
There were no movements of items between fair value hierarchies.
NOTE 5 – INCOME TAXES
We file U.S. federal income tax returns and income tax returns in various states and foreign jurisdictions.
The Company has recorded accruals to cover uncertain tax positions taken on previously filed tax returns. Such liabilities relate to additional taxes, interest and penalties the Company may be required to pay in various tax jurisdictions. During the course of examinations by various taxing authorities, proposed adjustments may be asserted. The Company evaluates such items on a case-by-case basis and adjusts the accrual for uncertain tax positions. During the quarter ended September 30, 2013 we had net decreases to our accruals related to a reassessment of previous and current uncertain tax positions offset by increases during the first and second quarter of 2013. Our balance at September 30, 2013 is materially the same as at December 31, 2012.

11


NOTE 6 – STOCK BASED COMPENSATION
At September 30, 2013, we had the following stock option and stock purchase plans:

the 2011 Incentive Stock Plan, which our stockholders approved in May 2011;
the 2008 Incentive Stock Plan, which our stockholders approved in May 2008;
the 2005 Incentive Stock Plan, which our stockholders approved in April 2005;
the 2000 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan, which expired in February 2010;
the 1997 Stock Option Plan, which expired in January 2007;
the 1996 Directors Stock Option Plan, which expired in May 2006; and
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”), which our stockholders approved in May 2001.
The following table presents the total stock-based compensation expense resulting from stock option awards, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), and the ESPP included in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income:
In thousands
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Cost of revenues – stock option plan
$
32

 
$
34

 
$
102

 
$
105

Selling, general and administrative – stock option plan
3,561

 
3,421

 
10,265

 
10,329

Selling, general and administrative – RSUs
389

 
389

 
967

 
1,077

Selling, general and administrative – ESPP
163

 
285

 
754

 
835

Total pre-tax expense
$
4,145

 
$
4,129

 
$
12,088

 
$
12,346

The following table sets forth the tax benefits related to stock compensation:
In thousands
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Tax benefit recognized in Statement of Income
$
1,109

 
$
1,631

 
$
3,493

 
$
4,239

Excess tax benefit realized
3,981

 
9,471

 
12,354

 
20,994

The Black-Scholes option-pricing model is used in determining the fair value of each option grant. The expected term of options granted is based on historical experience. Expected volatility is based upon historical volatility. The expected dividend yield is zero. The risk-free interest rate is based upon the U.S. Treasury yield rates for a comparable period. The assumptions that we used in the Black-Scholes model are as follows:
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Weighted average fair value at grant date
$
26.51

 
$
20.68

 
$
21.99

 
$
20.09

Expected term (in years)
5.75

 
6.00

 
5.83

 
6.00

Expected volatility
26.20
%
 
27.52
%
 
27.05
%
 
27.90
%
Expected dividend yield
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
Risk free interest rate
1.67
%
 
0.79
%
 
1.00
%
 
1.06
%


12


Stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, was as follows:
 
Number of
Options
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price per
Share
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
 
 
 
 
(in years)
 
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2012
5,543,664

 
$
61.69

 
 
 
 
Granted
1,050,080

 
96.94

 
 
 
 
Exercised
(705,247
)
 
48.68

 
 
 
 
Canceled or expired
(107,933
)
 
75.19

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2013
5,780,564

 
$
69.43

 
6.74
 
$
265,744,014

Exercisable at September 30, 2013
2,919,271

 
$
56.35

 
5.41
 
$
172,389,576

Vested and expected to vest in the future at September 30, 2013
5,024,369

 
$
66.71

 
6.48
 
$
244,644,342


The total exercise intrinsic value represents the total pre-tax value (the difference between the sales price on that trading day in the quarter ended September 30, and the exercise price associated with the respective option).
In thousands
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Total exercise intrinsic value of options exercised
$
12,809

 
$
28,558

 
$
40,537

 
$
68,582

RSUs activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, is summarized below. RSUs vest at the end of three or five years. Our 2008 and 2011 Plans include a share reserve related to RSUs granted at a 2-1 ratio.
 
Number of
Units
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
 
 
(in years)
 
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2012
68,202

 
 
 
 
Granted
17,800

 
 
 
 
Released
(12,750
)
 
 
 
 
Forfeited
(907
)
 
 
 
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2013
72,345

 
2.90
 
$
8,348,613

Exercisable at September 30, 2013

 
0.00
 
$



13


NOTE 7 – COMMON STOCK
The following table provides information about our repurchase of shares of our common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
 
Number of
Shares
Repurchased
and
Canceled
 
Amount Paid
for
Repurchases
(000’s)
 
Average
Price Paid
per Share
Three months ended March 31, 2013
74,820

 
$
7,160

 
$
95.70

Three months ended June 30, 2013
540,390

 
59,015

 
109.21

Three months ended September 30, 2013
421,060

 
48,356

 
114.84

Nine months ended September 30, 2013
1,036,270

 
$
114,531

 
$
110.52

 
 
 
 
 
 
Three months ended March 31, 2012
38,552

 
$
2,945

 
$
76.38

Three months ended June 30, 2012

 

 

Three months ended September 30, 2012
43,500

 
3,913

 
89.97

Nine months ended September 30, 2012
82,052

 
$
6,858

 
$
83.58


NOTE 8 – EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period increased to include the number of additional shares of common stock that would have been outstanding if the potentially dilutive securities had been issued. Potentially dilutive securities include outstanding stock options, shares to be purchased under the Company’s employee stock purchase plan and RSUs. The dilutive effect of potentially dilutive securities is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method. Under the treasury stock method, an increase in the fair market value of the Company’s common stock can result in a greater dilutive effect from potentially dilutive securities.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
In thousands, except share and per share data
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Numerator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Numerator for basic earnings per share Net income attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
80,547

 
$
65,477

 
$
233,208

 
$
197,927

Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator for basic earnings per share weighted average shares
85,849,656

 
85,748,998

 
86,021,764

 
85,251,002

Effect of diluted securities:

 
 
 

 
 
Employee stock options
1,551,909

 
1,556,781

 
1,475,512

 
1,660,227

Denominator for diluted earnings per share-adjusted weighted average shares and after assumed conversions
87,401,565

 
87,305,779

 
87,497,276

 
86,911,229

Earnings per share – Basic
$
0.94

 
$
0.76

 
$
2.71

 
$
2.32

Earnings per share – Diluted
$
0.92

 
$
0.75

 
$
2.67

 
$
2.28


14


NOTE 9 – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill and other identifiable indefinite lived intangibles are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test, or more frequent testing if circumstances indicate that they may be impaired.
We have two geographical reporting segments, “United States” and “International”, both of which have goodwill. The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill since December 31, 2011, by reportable segment, were as follows:
In thousands
 
United States
 
International
 
Total
Balance as of December 31, 2011
$
1,506,416

 
$
407,287

 
$
1,913,703

Goodwill acquired during year
114,931

 
62,145

 
177,076

Goodwill allocation adjustments
(5,061
)
 
(24,859
)
 
(29,920
)
Sale of business

 
(1,178
)
 
(1,178
)
Changes due to currency fluctuation

 
5,422

 
5,422

Balance as of December 31, 2012
1,616,286

 
448,817

 
2,065,103

Goodwill acquired during year
58,260

 
90,620

 
148,880

Goodwill allocation adjustments
4,515

 
87

 
4,602

Changes due to currency fluctuation

 
(10,740
)
 
(10,740
)
Balance as of September 30, 2013
$
1,679,061

 
$
528,784

 
$
2,207,845

Current year adjustments to goodwill for certain 2012 acquisitions are primarily due to the finalization of intangible asset valuations.
During the quarter ended June 30, 2013, we performed our annual goodwill impairment evaluation for our three reporting units, Domestic Regulated Waste, Domestic Regulated Recall and Returns Management Services, and International. We calculated fair value for our reporting units using two methods, one a market approach and the other an income approach. Both the market and income approaches indicated no impairment to goodwill to any of our three reporting units.
Market Approach: Our market approach begins by calculating the market capitalization of the Company using the average stock price for the prior twelve months and the outstanding share count at June 30, 2013. We then look at the Company's Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortization (“EBITDA”), adjusted for stock compensation expense and other items, such as change in fair value of contingent consideration, restructuring and plant closure costs, and litigation settlement for the prior twelve months. The calculated market capitalization is divided by the modified EBITDA to arrive at a valuation multiple. The fair value of each reporting unit is then calculated by taking the product of the valuation multiple and the trailing twelve month modified EBITDA of that reporting unit. The fair value was then compared to the reporting units' book value and determined to be in excess of the book value. We believe that starting with the fair value of the company as a whole is a reasonable measure as that fair value is then allocated to each reporting unit based on that reporting unit's individual earnings. A sustained drop in our stock price would have a negative impact to our fair value calculations. A temporary drop in earnings of a reporting unit would have a negative impact to our fair value calculations.
The results of our goodwill impairment test using the market approach indicated the fair value of our reporting units exceeded book value by a substantial amount, in excess of 100% of book value.

15


Income Approach: The income approach uses expected future cash flows of each reporting unit and discounts those cash flows to present values. Expected future cash flows are calculated using management assumptions of internal growth, capital expenditures, and cost efficiencies. Future acquisitions are not included in the expected future cash flows. We use a discount rate based on our Company calculated weighted average cost of capital which is adjusted for each of our reporting units based on size risk premium and country risk premium. Significant assumptions used in the income approach include realization of future cash flows and the discount rate used to present value those cash flows.
The results of our goodwill impairment test using the income approach indicated the fair value of our reporting units exceeded book value by a substantial amount; in excess of 100%.
We perform our annual impairment analysis of our indefinite lived intangibles (facility permits) during the quarter ended December 31 of each year.
Our finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives. We have determined that our customer relationships have useful lives from 14 to 40 years based upon the type of customer, with a weighted average remaining useful life of 25.9 years. We have covenants not-to-compete intangibles with useful lives from 3 to 14 years, with a weighted average remaining useful life of 4.1 years. We have tradename intangibles with useful lives from 10 to 40 years, with a weighted average remaining useful life of 15.7 years. We have license agreements with useful life of 5 years, with a weighted average remaining useful life of 2.1 years. We have determined that our permits have indefinite lives due to our ability to renew these permits with minimal additional cost, and therefore these are not amortized.
As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the values of the intangible assets were as follows:
In thousands
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Value
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Value
Amortizable intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Covenants not-to-compete
$
10,189

 
$
5,945

 
$
4,244

 
$
10,993

 
$
5,843

 
$
5,150

Customer relationships
664,295

 
74,893

 
589,402

 
602,095

 
57,236

 
544,859

Tradenames
5,058

 
941

 
4,117

 
4,922

 
712

 
4,210

License agreements
611

 
390

 
221

 
720

 
420

 
300

Other
89

 
11

 
78

 
89

 
4

 
85

Indefinite lived intangibles:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating permits
116,949

 

 
116,949

 
112,867

 

 
112,867

Tradenames
5,800

 

 
5,800

 

 

 

Total
$
802,991

 
$
82,180

 
$
720,811

 
$
731,686

 
$
64,215

 
$
667,471

During the quarters ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the aggregate amortization expense was $6.7 million and $5.6 million, respectively. For nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the aggregate amortization expense was $19.9 million and $15.7 million, respectively.

16


The estimated amortization expense for each of the next five years, assuming no additional amortizable intangible assets, is as follows for the years ended December 31:
In thousands
2013
$
26,483

2014
28,295

2015
27,964

2016
27,837

2017
27,593

Future amortization expense may fluctuate depending on changes in foreign currency rates, future acquisitions, or changes to the estimated amortizable life of the intangibles. The estimates for amortization expense noted above are based upon foreign exchange rates as of September 30, 2013.
NOTE 10 – DEBT
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
In thousands
 
September 30,
2013
 
December 31,
2012
Obligations under capital leases
$
6,975

 
$
5,234

$1 billion senior credit facility weighted average rate 2.02%, due in 2016
230,882

 
225,931

$100 million private placement notes 5.64%, due in 2015
100,000

 
100,000

$175 million private placement notes 3.89%, due in 2017
175,000

 
175,000

$125 million private placement notes 2.68%, due in 2019
125,000

 
125,000

$225 million private placement notes 4.47%, due in 2020
225,000

 
225,000

$125 million private placement notes 3.26%, due in 2022
125,000

 
125,000

Acquisition notes weighted average rate of 2.22% and weighted average maturity of 3.5 years
280,818

 
235,856

Foreign bank debt weighted average rate 5.21% and weighted average maturity of 1.4 years
134,494

 
139,063

Total debt
1,403,169

 
1,356,084

Less: current portion of total debt
107,577

 
87,781

Long-term portion of total debt
$
1,295,592

 
$
1,268,303

Our senior credit facility and our private placement notes all require us to comply with various financial, reporting and other covenants and restrictions, including a restriction on dividend payments. The financial debt covenants are the same for the senior credit facility and the private placement notes. At September 30, 2013, we were in compliance with all of our financial debt covenants.
As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we had $147.3 million and $157.6 million, respectively, committed to outstanding letters of credit under our senior credit facility. The unused portion of the revolving credit facility as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was $621.8 million and $616.5 million, respectively.
Guarantees
We have guaranteed a loan to JPMorganChase Bank N.A. on behalf of Shiraishi-Sogyo Co. Ltd (“Shiraishi”). Shiraishi is a customer in Japan that is expanding its medical waste management business and has a loan with a current balance of $5.0 million with JPMorganChase Bank N.A. that matures on May 31, 2014. We also have extended loans to Shiraishi for approximately $15.5 million, reflected in the Consolidated

17


Balance Sheet as part of long term "Other assets", in support of its medical waste business. There is a collateral agreement in place on the assets of Shiraishi and related companies in support of amounts owed.
NOTE 11 – GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
Management has determined that we have two reportable segments, United States (which includes Puerto Rico) and International. Revenues are attributed to countries based on the location of customers. The same accounting principles and critical accounting policies are used in the preparation of the financial statements for both reporting segments.
Detailed information for our United States reporting segment is as follows:
In thousands
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Regulated waste management services
$
353,049

 
$
319,465

 
$
1,040,636

 
$
921,772

Regulated recall and returns management services
25,071

 
28,741

 
71,334

 
93,482

Total revenue
378,120

 
348,206

 
1,111,970

 
1,015,254

Net interest expense
10,786

 
10,221

 
32,283

 
30,807

Income before income taxes
103,925

 
92,590

 
299,281

 
269,046

Income taxes
34,687

 
31,566

 
109,499

 
98,450

Net income attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
69,238

 
$
61,024

 
$
189,782

 
$
170,596

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
$
12,041

 
$
11,429

 
$
37,303

 
$
32,932


Detailed information for our International reporting segment is as follows:
In thousands
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
Regulated waste management services
$
156,459

 
$
132,278

 
$
462,938

 
$
394,257

Net interest expense
2,530

 
2,710

 
7,325

 
7,457

Income before income taxes
16,813

 
8,538

 
58,724

 
40,670

Income taxes
5,219

 
3,816

 
14,009

 
11,833

Net income
11,594

 
4,722

 
44,715

 
28,837

Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
285

 
269

 
1,289

 
1,506

Net income attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
11,309

 
$
4,453

 
$
43,426

 
$
27,331

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
$
9,809

 
$
8,016

 
$
27,810

 
$
22,257


NOTE 12 – LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We operate in a highly regulated industry and must deal with regulatory inquiries or investigations from time to time that may be instituted for a variety of reasons. We are also involved in a variety of civil litigation from time to time.
As we have previously disclosed, we were served on March 12, 2013 with a class action complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania by an individual plaintiff for itself and on behalf of all other “similarly situated” customers of ours. The complaint alleges, among other things,

18


that we imposed unauthorized or excessive price increases and other charges on our customers in breach of our contracts and in violation of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. The complaint seeks certification of the lawsuit as a class action and the award to class members of appropriate damages and injunctive relief.
The Pennsylvania class action complaint was filed in the wake of a settlement with the State of New York of an investigation under the New York False Claims Act (which the class action complaint describes at some length). The New York investigation arose out of a qui tam (or “whistle blower”) complaint under the federal False Claims Act and comparable state statutes which was filed under seal in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois in April 2008 by a former employee of ours. The complaint was filed on behalf of the United States and 14 states and the District of Columbia. Tennessee, Massachusetts, Virginia and North Carolina have issued civil investigative demands to explore the allegations made on their behalf in the qui tam complaint but have not yet decided whether to join the Illinois action.
Following the filing of the Pennsylvania class action complaint, we were served with class action complaints filed in federal court in California, Florida, Illinois and Utah and in state court in California. These complaints assert claims and allegations substantially similar to those made in the Pennsylvania class action complaint. All of these cases appear to be follow-on litigation to our settlement with the State of New York. On August 9, 2013, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation granted our Motion to Transfer these related actions to the Northern District of Illinois for centralized pretrial proceedings.
We believe that we have operated in accordance with the terms of our customer contracts and that these complaints are without merit. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves against each of these lawsuits.
On May 28, 2013, we received a notice of violation and order to comply from the State of Utah Division of Air Quality alleging violations of certain conditions of the operating permit for our incineration facility in North Salt Lake relating to emissions and emissions testing at the facility. We have subsequently completed testing, in accordance with protocols approved by the Division of Air Quality, that demonstrates that the facility is currently operating in compliance with applicable emissions standards and our permit conditions. We filed a formal response to the notice of violation on September 27, 2013 and are in discussions with the Division of Air Quality regarding a resolution of this matter.

19


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We were incorporated in 1989 and presently serve a diverse customer base of over 561,000 customers throughout the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, Romania, Spain, and the United Kingdom. We have fully integrated networks including processing centers, and transfer and collection sites. We use these networks to provide a broad range of services to our customers including regulated waste management services and regulated recall and returns management services. The regulated waste services we provide include medical waste disposal, our Steri-Safe® medical waste and compliance program, our Clinical Services program, our Bio Systems® reusable sharps disposal management services, pharmaceutical waste disposal, and hazardous waste disposal. In addition to our regulated waste services, we offer regulated recall and returns management services, patient communication services, and medical safety products. Our regulated recall and returns management services encompass a number of solutions for a variety of businesses but consist primarily of managing the recall, withdrawal or return of expired or recalled products and pharmaceuticals. We also provide communication services to healthcare providers to improve office productivity and communications with patients.
There were no material changes in the Company’s critical accounting policies since the filing of its 2012 Form 10-K. As discussed in the 2012 Form 10-K, the preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amount of reported assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the periods reported. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
Highlights of the three months ended September 30, 2013:
revenues were $534.6 million, up $54.1 million or 11.3% from $480.5 million in the third quarter last year;
third quarter gross margins increased to 45.2% from 44.9% in 2012;
operating income was $135.4 million, up $20.8 million or 18.2% from $114.5 million in the third quarter last year;
we incurred $3.7 million in pre-tax expenses related to acquisitions, integration expenses related to acquisitions, plant closure expenses, and change in fair value of contingent consideration;
cash flow from operations was $158.8 million which includes approximately $41 million in customer deposits to be used for recalled product reimbursements.
Highlights of the nine months ended September 30, 2013:
revenues were $1,574.9 million, up $165.4 million or 11.7% from $1,409.5 million in the same period last year;
gross margins increased to 45.2% from 44.7% in 2012;
operating income was $400.5 million, $52.0 million or 14.9% from $348.5 million in the same period last year;
we incurred $10.2 million in pre-tax expenses related to acquisitions, integration expenses related to acquisitions, plant closure expenses, and change in fair value of contingent consideration;
cash flow from operations was $335.3 million which includes approximately $41 million in customer deposits to be used for recalled product reimbursements.


20


THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 COMPARED TO
THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
The following summarizes the Company’s operations:

In thousands, except per share data
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
%
Revenues
$
534,579

 
100.0

 
$
480,484

 
100.0

Cost of revenues
280,645

 
52.5

 
253,526

 
52.8

Depreciation - cost of revenues
12,531

 
2.3

 
11,404

 
2.4

Total cost of revenues
293,176

 
54.8

 
264,930

 
55.1

Gross profit
241,403

 
45.2

 
215,554

 
44.9

Selling, general and administrative expenses (exclusive of items shown below)
92,964

 
17.4

 
82,176

 
17.1

Acquisition expenses
2,111

 
0.4

 
2,467

 
0.5

Change in fair value of contingent consideration
(185
)
 

 
(11
)
 

Integration expenses
1,423

 
0.3

 
1,217

 
0.3

Restructuring costs and plant closure expense
364

 
0.1

 
2,250

 
0.5

Litigation settlement
12

 

 

 

Loss on sale of business

 

 
4,867

 
1.0

Total SG&A expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)
96,689

 
18.1

 
92,966

 
19.3

Depreciation
2,610

 
0.5

 
2,480

 
0.5

Amortization
6,709

 
1.3

 
5,561

 
1.2

Income from operations
135,395

 
25.3

 
114,547

 
23.8

Net interest expense
13,316

 
2.5

 
12,931

 
2.7

Income tax expense
39,906

 
7.5

 
35,382

 
7.4

Net income
80,832

 
15.1

 
65,746

 
13.7

Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
285

 
0.1

 
269

 
0.1

Net income attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
80,547

 
15.1

 
$
65,477

 
13.6

Earnings per share- diluted
$
0.92

 
 
 
$
0.75

 
 
Revenues: Our revenues increased $54.1 million, or 11.3%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $534.6 million from $480.5 million in the same period in 2012. Domestic revenues increased $29.9 million, or 8.6%, to $378.1 million from $348.2 million in the same period in 2012. Organic revenue growth for domestic small account customers increased by $15.2 million, or approximately 8%, driven by an increase in Steri-Safe revenues and regulated waste management for retailers. Organic revenue from domestic large account customers increased by $5.3 million, or approximately 5%, as we increased the total number of accounts and expanded our reusable sharps services and pharmaceutical waste disposal programs. Organic revenues for recall and returns management services decreased by $3.7 million in 2013 due to lower recalls. Organic revenues exclude revenue growth attributed to businesses acquired within the preceding twelve months. Revenues from domestic acquisitions closed within the preceding twelve months contributed approximately $13.1 million to the increase in revenues in the third quarter of 2013.
International revenues increased $24.2 million, or 18.3%, in the third quarter of 2013, to $156.5 million from $132.3 million in the same period in 2012. Organic growth, currency rate fluctuations and acquisitions impact the comparison of 2013 and 2012. Organic growth in the international segment contributed $8.4

21


million in revenues, or approximately 7%. Organic growth excludes the effect of foreign exchange and acquisitions and divestitures less than one year old. The effect of foreign exchange rates unfavorably impacted international revenues in 2013 by $5.2 million as foreign currencies declined against the U.S. dollar. Revenue from international acquisitions, net of business divestitures, closed within the preceding twelve months contributed approximately $21.0 million to the increase in revenues in the third quarter of 2013.
Cost of Revenues: Our cost of revenues increased $28.2 million, or 10.7%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $293.2 million from $264.9 million in the same period in 2012. Our domestic cost of revenues increased $10.4 million, or 5.9%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $188.4 million from $177.9 million in the same period in 2012 as a result of costs related to a proportional increase in revenues from acquisitions and internal growth.
Our international cost of revenues increased $17.8 million, or 20.5%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $104.8 million from $87.0 million in the same period in 2012 as a result of costs related to proportional increase in revenues from acquisitions and internal growth.
Our consolidated gross margin percentage increased to 45.2% during the third quarter of 2013 from 44.9% during the same period in 2012. Domestic gross margin percentage increased to 50.2% during the third quarter of 2013 from 48.9% in the same period in 2012.
International gross margin decreased to 33.0% during the third quarter of 2013 from 34.2% during the same period in 2012. In general, international gross margins are lower than domestic gross margins because the international operations have fewer small account customers, which tend to provide higher gross margins. Historically, the international operations have had most of their revenues from large account customers, such as hospitals. As the international revenues increase, consolidated gross margins receive downward pressure due to this “business mix” shift, which may be offset by additional international small account market penetration, integration savings, and domestic business expansion.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses: Excluding the effect of acquisition and integration expenses, and other items (collectively the “Acquisition-related Items”), depreciation, and amortization expenses, our selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses increased $10.8 million, or 13.1%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $93.0 million from $82.2 million in the same period in 2012 primarily as investment spending supported the increase in revenues and acquired SG&A expenses. As a percentage of revenue, these costs increased to 17.4% in the third quarter of 2013 from 17.1% during the same period in 2012.
Domestically, third quarter SG&A expenses, excluding Acquisition-related Items, depreciation, and amortization expenses, increased $6.2 million, or 10.2%, to $66.7 million from $60.5 million in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A was at 17.6% in the third quarter of 2013 and 17.4% in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets did not change.
Internationally, third quarter SG&A expenses, excluding Acquisition-related Items, increased $4.6 million, or 21.2%, to $26.3 million from $21.7 million in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A was at 16.8% in the third quarter of 2013 compared to 16.4% in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets increased by 0.3%.
During the quarter ended September 30, 2013, we recognized $2.1 million in acquisition expenses, $1.4 million of expenses related to the integration of our acquisitions, $0.4 million in plant closure expenses, partially offset by $0.2 million related to a change in fair value of contingent consideration.

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During the quarter ended September 30, 2012, we recognized $2.5 million in acquisition expenses, $1.2 million of expenses related to the integration of our acquisitions, $2.3 million of restructuring expenses, and a $4.9 million loss related to a divestiture in the United Kingdom.
Income from Operations: Income from operations increased $20.8 million, or 18.2%, in the third quarter of 2013 to $135.4 million from $114.5 million in same period in 2012. Comparison of income from operations between the third quarter of 2013 and the same period of 2012 is affected by Acquisition-related Items described above in the SG&A section.
Domestically, our income from operations increased $12.5 million, or 12.1%, to $115.5 million in the third quarter of 2013 from $103.0 million in the same period in 2012. Internationally, our income from operations increased $8.4 million, or 73.0%, to $19.9 million in the third quarter of 2013 from $11.5 million in the same period in 2012.
Net Interest Expense: Net interest expense increased to $13.3 million during the third quarter of 2013 from $12.9 million during the same period in 2012.
Income Tax Expense: Income tax expense increased to $39.9 million in the third quarter of 2013 from $35.4 million in the same period in 2012. The effective tax rates for the quarters ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were 33.1% and 35.0%, respectively. The decrease in the current quarter tax rate is primarily related to a decrease in our tax accrual for unrecognized tax benefits due to the expiration of statute of limitations.

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NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013 COMPARED TO
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
The following summarizes the Company’s operations:
In thousands, except per share data
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
$
 
%
 
$
 
%
Revenues
$
1,574,908

 
100.0

 
$
1,409,511

 
100.0
Cost of revenues
826,703

 
52.5

 
746,540

 
53.0
Depreciation - cost of revenues
36,856

 
2.3

 
32,622

 
2.3
Total cost of revenues
863,559

 
54.8

 
779,162

 
55.3
Gross profit
711,349

 
45.2

 
630,349

 
44.7
Selling, general and administrative expenses (exclusive of items shown below)
272,363

 
17.3

 
240,635

 
17.1
Acquisition expenses
6,238

 
0.4

 
6,213

 
0.4
Change in fair value of contingent consideration
(307
)
 

 
591

 
Integration expenses
3,702

 
0.2

 
3,540

 
0.3
Restructuring costs and plant closure expense
468

 

 
3,400

 
0.2
Litigation settlement
116

 

 

 
Loss on sale of business

 

 
4,867

 
0.3
Total SG&A expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below)
282,580

 
17.9

 
259,246

 
18.4
Depreciation
8,373

 
0.5

 
6,892

 
0.5
Amortization
19,884

 
1.3

 
15,675

 
1.1
Income from operations
400,512

 
25.4

 
348,536

 
24.7
Net interest expense
39,608

 
2.5

 
38,264

 
2.7
Income tax expense
123,508

 
7.8

 
110,283

 
7.8
Net income
234,497

 
14.9

 
199,433

 
14.1
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
1,289

 
0.1

 
1,506

 
0.1
Net income attributable to Stericycle, Inc.
$
233,208

 
14.8

 
$
197,927

 
14.0
Earnings per share- diluted
$
2.67

 
 
 
$
2.28

 
 
Revenues: Our revenues increased $165.4 million, or 11.7%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $1,574.9 million from $1,409.5 million in the same period in 2012. Domestic revenues increased $96.7 million, or 9.5%, to $1,112.0 million from $1,015.3 million in the same period in 2012. Organic revenue growth for domestic small account customers increased by $48.6 million, or approximately 8%, driven by an increase in Steri-Safe revenues and regulated waste management for retailers. Organic revenue from domestic large account customers increased by $20.4 million, or approximately 6.0%, as we increased the total number of accounts and expanded our reusable sharps services and pharmaceutical waste disposal programs. Organic revenues for recall and returns management services decreased by $22.1 million in 2013 due to lower recalls. Organic revenues exclude revenue growth attributed to businesses acquired within the preceding twelve months. Revenues from domestic acquisitions closed within the preceding twelve months contributed approximately $49.8 million to the increase in revenues in 2013.
International revenues increased $68.7 million, or 17.4%, in 2013, to $462.9 million from $394.3 million in the same period in 2012. Organic growth, currency rate fluctuations and acquisitions impact the comparison of 2013 and 2012. Organic growth in the international segment contributed $26.8 million in revenues, or approximately 7%. Organic growth excludes the effect of foreign exchange and acquisitions

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and divestitures less than one year old. The effect of foreign exchange rates unfavorably impacted international revenues in 2013 by $13.5 million as foreign currencies declined against the U.S. dollar. Revenues from international acquisitions closed within the preceding twelve months contributed approximately $55.4 million to the increase in revenues in 2013.
Cost of Revenues: Our cost of revenues increased $84.4 million, or 10.8%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $863.6 million from $779.2 million in the same period in 2012. Our domestic cost of revenues increased $39.8 million, or 7.7%, in 2013 to $559.9 million from $520.1 million in the same period in 2012 as a result of costs related to a proportional increase in revenues from acquisitions and internal growth.
Our international cost of revenues increased $44.6 million, or 17.2%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $303.7 million from $259.1 million in the same period in 2012 as a result of costs related to proportional increase in revenues from acquisitions and internal growth.
Our consolidated gross margin percentage increased to 45.2% during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from 44.7% during the same period in 2012. Domestic gross margin percentage increased to 49.6% in 2013 from 48.8% in the same period in 2012.
International gross margin increased to 34.4% in 2013 from 34.3% during the same period in 2012. In general, international gross margins are lower than domestic gross margins because the international operations have fewer small account customers, which tend to provide higher gross margins. Historically, the international operations have had most of their revenues from large account customers, such as hospitals. As the international revenues increase, consolidated gross margins receive downward pressure due to this “business mix” shift, which may be offset by additional international small account market penetration, integration savings, and domestic business expansion.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses: Excluding the effect of Acquisition-related Items, depreciation, and amortization expenses, our SG&A expenses increased $31.7 million, or 13.2%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $272.4 million from $240.6 million in the same period in 2012 primarily as investment spending supported the increase in revenues and acquired SG&A expenses. As a percentage of revenue, these costs increased to 17.3% in 2013 from 17.1% during the same period in 2012.
Domestically, 2013 SG&A expenses, excluding Acquisition-related Items, depreciation, and amortization expenses, increased $20.2 million, or 11.5%, to $195.8 million from $175.6 million in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A was at 17.6% in 2013 compared to 17.3% in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets increased by 0.1%.
Internationally, 2013 SG&A expenses, excluding Acquisition-related Items, increased $11.6 million, or 17.8%, to $76.6 million from $65.0 million in the same period in 2012. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A was at 16.5% both in 2013 and 2012. As a percentage of revenues, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets increased by 0.2%.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we recognized $6.2 million in acquisition expenses, $3.7 million of expenses related to the integration of our acquisitions, $0.5 million of plant closure expenses, $0.1 million in litigation settlement expense, partially offset by $0.3 million related to a change in fair value of contingent consideration.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we recognized $6.2 million in acquisition expenses, $3.5 million of expenses related to the integration of our acquisitions, $3.4 million of restructuring and plant

25


closure expenses, $4.9 million loss related to the U.K. divestiture, and $0.6 million of expense related to a change in fair value of contingent consideration.
Income from Operations: Income from operations increased $52.0 million, or 14.9%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $400.5 million from $348.5 million in same period in 2012. Comparison of income from operations between 2013 and the same period of 2012 is affected by Acquisition-related Items described above in the SG&A section.
Domestically, our income from operations increased $33.5 million, or 11.2%, to $333.1 million in 2013 from $299.6 million in the same period in 2012. Internationally, our income from operations increased $18.5 million, or 37.8%, to $67.4 million in 2013 from $48.9 million in the same period in 2012.
Net Interest Expense: Net interest expense increased to $39.6 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $38.3 million during the same period in 2012. The increase in interest expense was due to our entering into new long-term fixed rate notes which were at a higher interest rate in October 2012. These notes helped us to increase availability under our senior credit facility.
Income Tax Expense: Income tax expense increased to $123.5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 from $110.3 million in the same period in 2012. The effective tax rates for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 were 34.5% and 35.6%, respectively.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our $1.0 billion senior credit facility maturing in September 2016, our $100.0 million private placement notes maturing April 2015, our $175.0 million private placement notes maturing in October 2017, our $125.0 million private placement notes maturing in December 2019, our $225.0 million private placement notes maturing in October 2020, and our $125.0 million private placement notes maturing in December 2022, all require us to comply with various financial, reporting and other covenants and restrictions, including a restriction on dividend payments. The financial debt covenants are the same for the senior credit facility and the private placement notes. At September 30, 2013, we were in compliance with all of our financial debt covenants.
As of September 30, 2013, we had $230.9 million of borrowings outstanding under our $1.0 billion senior unsecured credit facility, which includes foreign currency borrowings of $85.9 million. We also had $147.3 million committed to outstanding letters of credit under this facility. The unused portion of the revolving credit facility as of September 30, 2013 was $621.8 million. At September 30, 2013, our interest rates on borrowings under our revolving credit facility, including our facility fee, were as follows:

For short-term borrowing (less than two weeks): Federal funds rate plus 0.5%, the prime rate or the Euro Currency rate plus 1%, whichever is higher and a spread of 0.025% plus a 0.225% facility fee.
For borrowings greater than two weeks: LIBOR plus 1.025% plus a 0.225% facility fee.
The weighted average rate of interest on the unsecured revolving credit facility was 2.02% per annum, which includes the 0.225% facility fee at September 30, 2013.
As of September 30, 2013, we had outstanding $100.0 million of seven-year 5.64% unsecured senior notes issued to nine institutional purchasers in a private placement completed in April 2008. Interest is payable in arrears semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 beginning on October 15, 2009, and principal is payable at the maturity of the notes on April 15, 2015.

26


As of September 30, 2013, we had outstanding $175.0 million of seven-year 3.89% unsecured senior notes and $225.0 million of 10-year 4.47% unsecured senior notes issued to 39 institutional purchasers in a private placement completed in October 2010. Interest is payable in arrears semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 beginning on April 15, 2011, and principal is payable at the maturity of the notes, October 15, 2017 in the case of the seven-year notes and October 15, 2020 in the case of the 10-year notes.
As of September 30, 2013, we had outstanding $125.0 million of seven-year 2.68% unsecured senior notes and $125.0 million of 10-year 3.26% unsecured senior notes issued to 46 institutional purchasers in a private placement completed in December 2012. Interest is payable in arrears semi-annually on June 12 and December 12 beginning on June 12, 2013, and principal is payable at the maturity of the notes, December 12, 2019 in the case of the seven-year notes and December 12, 2022 in the case of the 10-year notes.
As of September 30, 2013, we had $280.8 million in promissory notes issued in connection with acquisitions during 2004 through 2013, $134.5 million in foreign subsidiary bank debt outstanding, and $7.0 million in capital lease obligations.
Working Capital: At September 30, 2013, our working capital increased $6.1 million to $116.4 million compared to $110.2 million at December 31, 2012.
Current assets increased by $86.7 million. Net accounts receivable increased by $47.8 million. Days sales outstanding (“DSO”) was calculated at 62 days at September 30, 2013 and 59 days at December 31, 2012 which was affected by both acquired receivables and the number of collection days in September 2013. Cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 2013 included $41.0 million, offset by an equivalent amount in other current liabilities that is to be used for recalled product reimbursement. Current liabilities increased by $80.5 million, primarily related to product reimbursement liability, accrued income taxes, and deferred consideration for acquisitions which is considered short term debt.
Net Cash Provided or Used: Net cash provided by operating activities increased $58.1 million, or 21.0%, to $335.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $277.1 million for the comparable period in 2012. Cash provided by operations as a ratio to net income is 143% and 139% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $186.2 million compared to $199.0 million in the comparable period in 2012. We used $16.2 million less in funds to acquire new businesses in 2013. Our capital expenditures increased by $2.7 million, and as a percentage of revenues it decreased to 3.4% in 2013 from 3.7% in 2012.
Net cash used in financing activities was $115.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $86.0 million in the comparable period in 2012. We had share repurchases of $114.5 million in 2013 compared to $2.9 million in 2012. In 2013, we had $5.1 million of net borrowings on our senior credit facility compared to $96.6 million of net repayments in the same period in 2012.
Guarantees: We have guaranteed a loan to JPMorganChase Bank N.A. on behalf of Shiraishi-Sogyo Co. Ltd (“Shiraishi”). Shiraishi is a customer in Japan that is expanding its medical waste management business and has a loan with a current balance of $5.0 million with JPMorganChase Bank N.A. that matures on May 31, 2014. We also have extended loans to Shiraishi for approximately $15.5 million, reflected in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as part of long term "Other assets", in support of its medical waste business. There is a collateral agreement in place on the assets of Shiraishi and related companies in support of amounts owed.

27


ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are subject to market risks arising from changes in interest rates. Our potential additional interest expense over one year that would result from a hypothetical, instantaneous and unfavorable change of 100 basis points in the interest rate on all of our variable rate obligations would be approximately $3.8 million on a pre-tax basis.
We have exposure to commodity pricing for gas and diesel fuel for our trucks and for the purchase of containers and boxes. We do not hedge these items to manage the exposure.
We have exposure to foreign currency fluctuations. We have subsidiaries in eleven foreign countries whose functional currency is the local currency. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates could unfavorably impact our consolidated results of operations.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this Report. On the basis of this evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer each concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

The term “disclosure controls and procedures” is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as “controls and other procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in the reports, files or submits under the Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.” Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that material information relating to us and our consolidated subsidiaries is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding our required disclosures.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The term internal control over financial reporting is defined as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the issuers’ principal executive and principal financial officers, and effected by the issuer’s Board of Directors, management, and other personnel, 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. During the quarter ended September 30, 2013, there were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

28


FROM TIME TO TIME WE ISSUE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS RELATING TO SUCH THINGS AS ANTICIPATED FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE, BUSINESS PROSPECTS, ACQUISITION ACTIVITIES AND SIMILAR MATTERS.
THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS MAY INVOLVE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES, SOME OF WHICH ARE BEYOND OUR CONTROL (FOR EXAMPLE, GENERAL ECONOMIC CONDITIONS). OUR ACTUAL RESULTS COULD DIFFER SIGNIFICANTLY FROM THE RESULTS DESCRIBED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. FACTORS THAT COULD CAUSE SUCH DIFFERENCES INCLUDE DIFFICULTIES IN COMPLETING THE INTEGRATION OF ACQUIRED BUSINESSES, CHANGES IN GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION OF MEDICAL WASTE COLLECTION AND TREATMENT, AND INCREASES IN TRANSPORTATION AND OTHER OPERATING COSTS, AS WELL AS VARIOUS OTHER FACTORS.