10-K 1 c84449e10vk.txt ANNUAL REPORT UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K [x] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the Fiscal Year Ended JANUARY 31, 2004 [ ] 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: 000-20132 THE BUCKLE, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) NEBRASKA 47-0366193 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 2407 WEST 24TH STREET, KEARNEY, NEBRASKA 68845-4915 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (308) 236-8491 SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OF THE ACT: TITLE OF CLASS NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE ON WHICH REGISTERED Common Stock, $.01 par value New York Stock Exchange SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(G) OF THE ACT: NONE Indicate whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ] Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K [ ]. The aggregate market value (based on the closing price of the New York Stock Exchange) of the Common Stock of the Registrant held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was $212,248,685.40 on March 26, 2004. For purposes of this response, executive officers and directors are deemed to be the affiliates of the Registrant and the holdings by non-affiliates was computed as 7,553,334 shares. The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant's Common Stock, as of March 26, 2004, was 21,550,980. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement dated April 15, 2004 for Registrant's 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held May 28, 2004 are incorporated by reference in Part III. THE BUCKLE, INC. FORM 10-K JANUARY 31, 2004 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE PART I Item 1. Business 3 Item 2. Properties 12 Item 3. Legal Proceedings 13 Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 13 PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Shareholder Matters 13 Item 6. Selected Financial Data 13 Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 13 Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 14 Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 14 Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 14 Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 14 PART III Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 14 Item 11. Executive Compensation 14 Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 15 Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 15 Item 14. Accounting Fees 15 PART IV Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statements, Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K 15
PART I ITEM 1 - BUSINESS The Buckle, Inc. (the "Company") is a retailer of medium to better-priced casual apparel, footwear and accessories for fashion conscious young men and women. As of January 31, 2004, the Company operated 316 retail stores in 38 states throughout the central United States, as well as in the northwest, southeast and southwestern states under the names "Buckle" and "The Buckle." The Company markets a wide selection of mostly brand name casual apparel including denims, other casual bottoms, tops, sportswear, outerwear, accessories and footwear. The Company emphasizes personalized attention to its customers and provides customer services such as free alterations, free gift-wrapping, easy layaways, The Buckle private label credit card and a frequent shopper program. Most stores are located in regional, high-traffic shopping malls, and this is the Company's strategy for future expansion. All of the Company's central office functions, including purchasing, pricing, advertising and distribution, are controlled from its headquarters and distribution center in Kearney, Nebraska. Incorporated in Nebraska in 1948, the Company commenced business under the name Mills Clothing, Inc., a conventional men's clothing store with only one location. In 1967, a second store, under the trade name Brass Buckle, was purchased. In the early 1970s, the store image changed to that of a jeans store with a wide selection of denims and shirts. The first branch store was opened in Columbus, Nebraska, in 1976. In 1977, the Company began selling young women's apparel as well, and opened its first mall store. The Company has experienced significant growth over the past ten years, growing from 131 stores at the start of 1994 to 316 stores by the close of fiscal 2003. The Company changed its corporate name to The Buckle, Inc. on April 23, 1991. All references herein to fiscal 2003 refer to the 52-week period ended January 31, 2004. Fiscal 2002 refers to the 52-week period ended February 1, 2003 and fiscal 2001 refers to the 52-week period ended February 2, 2002. The Company's principal executive offices and distribution center are located at 2407 West 24th Street, Kearney, Nebraska 68845. The Company's telephone number is (308) 236-8491. The Company publishes its corporate web site at www.buckle.com. MARKETING AND MERCHANDISING The Company's marketing and merchandising strategy is designed to create customer loyalty by offering a wide selection of key brand name merchandise and providing a broad range of value-added services. The Company provides a unique specialty apparel store with merchandise designed to appeal to the fashion conscious 12- to 24-year old. The merchandise mix includes denims, slacks/casual bottoms, tops, sportswear, outerwear, accessories and footwear. Denim is a significant contributor to total sales (36.2% of fiscal 2003 net sales) and is a key to the Company's merchandising concept. The Company believes it attracts customers with a selection of key brands and a wide variety of fits, finishes and styles in denim. Shirts and tops are also significant contributors to the total sales (32.1% of fiscal 2003 net sales). The Company strives to provide a continually changing selection of the latest casual fashions. The percentage of net sales over the past three fiscal years of the Company's major product lines are set forth in the following table.
Percentage of Net Sales Fiscal Fiscal Fiscal Merchandise Group 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ---- ---- ---- Denims 36.2% 32.8% 28.8% Casual Bottoms 3.8 3.7 5.0 Tops (including sweaters) 32.1 32.0 33.5 Sportswear/Fashion Clothes 4.5 4.8 5.7 Outerwear 2.9 3.7 2.9 Accessories 11.4 11.3 11.0 Footwear 8.9 11.4 11.8 Other 0.2 0.3 1.3 ----- ----- ----- Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% ===== ===== =====
Brand name merchandise accounted for more than 80% of the Company's sales volume during fiscal 2003. The remaining balance is comprised of private label merchandise that is manufactured to the Company's specifications. The Company's merchandisers continually work with manufacturers and vendors to produce brand name merchandise that is unique in color and style. While the brands offered by the Company change to meet current customer preferences, the Company currently offers brands such as Lucky Brand Dungarees, Silver, Fossil, Billabong, Ecko, Quiksilver/Roxy and Hurley. The Company believes brand name merchandise will continue to constitute the majority of sales. Management believes the Company provides a unique store setting by maintaining a high level of customer service and by offering a wide selection of fashionable, quality merchandise at good values. The Company believes that it is essential to create an enjoyable shopping atmosphere and, in order to fulfill this mission, we must provide highly motivated employees who give personal attention to customers. Each salesperson is educated to help create a complete look for the customer by helping them find the best fits and showing merchandise as coordinating outfits. The Company also incorporates specialized services such as free alterations, free gift wrapping, layaways, a frequent shopper card, the Buckle private label credit card and a special order system which allows stores to obtain specifically requested merchandise from other Company stores. Customers are encouraged to use the Company's layaway plan, which allows customers to make a partial payment on merchandise that is then held by the store until the balance is paid. For the past three fiscal years, an average of approximately five percent of net sales have been made on a layaway basis. Merchandising and pricing decisions are made centrally; however, the Company's distribution system allows for variation in the mix of merchandise distributed to each store. This allows individual store inventories to be tailored to reflect differences in customer buying patterns at various locations. In addition, to assure a continually fresh, new look in its stores, the Company ships new merchandise daily to most stores, including varying styles and colors that differ from prior merchandise. The Company also has a transfer program that shifts specific merchandise to locations where it is selling best. This distribution and transfer system helps to maintain customer satisfaction by providing in-stock popular items and reducing the need to mark down slow-moving merchandise at a particular location. The Company believes the reduced markdowns justify the incremental costs of distribution associated with the transfer system. The Company does not hold storewide off-price sales at anytime. During fiscal 2002, the Company unveiled a totally new store design and corporate logo. The company worked with a national design firm to review architectural elements, including all wall systems, lighting, finishes and fixtures. The new design has been very positively received by guests, landlords and management. The last prior update to the store look was in fiscal 1997. New materials include: wood flooring, enhanced graphic elements, corrugated metals and Icon brand elements. Accessory and shoe fixtures were developed and rolled out to all stores in fiscal 2002. The Company opened the first new prototype stores in the summer of 2002 with all subsequent remodels and new stores featuring the new design. At the end of fiscal 2003, a total of 47 stores had the new look - 24 new stores and 23 remodeled locations. The basic overall store architectural design presents a unique atmosphere in which the store's architectural elements, including feature display walls, provide a backdrop and create a strong visual presentation for the customer. Special care is taken to provide a comfortable environment to which customers can relate. MARKETING AND ADVERTISING In fiscal 2003, the Company spent $4.3 million or 1.0% of net sales on advertising, promotions and in-store point of sale materials. In-store seasonal sign kits, promotional signage, image brochures and catalogs are used to enhance merchandising presentations and the stores' image. Promotions such as sweepstakes, gift with purchase offers and special events are designed to create a unique shopping experience for Buckle guests. Magazine advertising in leading teen publications is used during key seasons to introduce new merchandise, build awareness and brand the Buckle's image. The Buckle partners with key vendors on magazine opportunities and special promotions to extend its marketing reach. Radio advertising continues as a media source used to support special events and promotions such as sweepstakes, grand openings and end-of-season sales in approximately 75% of the Company's markets. In 2002, along with the new store concept, the Company rolled out a new logo to create a stronger brand identity for the Buckle. The new logo includes a B-Icon element and signature red color. All marketing materials and supplies were redesigned to translate the new brand identity throughout the Company including the retail stores, online and corporate communication. The Company offers programs to strengthen relationships with loyal guests. The Company continues to support a frequent shopper program (the Buckle Primo Card), a rewards program designed to build customer loyalty. Private label credit card marketing is another avenue for marketing to loyal guests. The Company extends exclusive benefits to active Buckle Cardholders such as coupons and other special targeted mailings. In 2003, the Buckle continued its B-Rewards, an exclusive rewards program for Buckle Cardholders. Qualifying Cardholders are mailed B-Rewards merchandise certificates at the end of each Rewards program inviting them back into the store at the start of the next season. The Buckle Card marketing program is partially funded by WFNNB, a third-party bank that owns the Buckle Card accounts. The Company publishes a corporate web site at www.buckle.com. The Company's web site serves as a second retail touch-point for cross-channel marketing, reaching a growing online audience. Buckle.com is an eCommerce enabled channel with an interactive, entertaining, informative and brand building environment where visitors can get the latest Buckle fashion information with special features including an online denim guide, "look" suggestions and style boutiques. The Company has an opt-in online database and sends periodic and targeted e-mail campaigns to notify members of the latest store promotions and product offerings. Online guests can shop, enter sweepstakes, fill out a wish list, find out about career opportunities, and read the latest Buckle financial news. The Buckle Online Store was launched April 26, 1999 as a marketing tool, to extend the Company's brand beyond the physical locations. Offering a growing selection of the merchandise inventory online, the Company presents the online store as a "taste test" in new markets as well as a cross-channel tool in existing markets. STORE OPERATIONS The Company has an Executive Vice President of Sales, a Vice President of Sales, 18 district managers and 56 area managers. Eleven of the district managers and all of the area managers also serve as manager of their home base store. Each store has one manager, one or two assistant managers, one to three additional full-time salespeople and up to 20 part-time salespeople. Most stores have peak levels of staff during the back-to-school and Christmas seasons. Almost every location also employs a seamstress. The Company places great importance on educating quality personnel. Along with sharing career opportunities with Buckle employees, the Company recruits interns and management trainees from college campuses. A majority of the Company's store managers, all of its Area and District managers and most of its upper level management are former salespeople, including the President and CEO, Dennis H. Nelson and Chairman, Daniel J. Hirschfeld. Recognizing talent and promoting managers from within allows the Company to build a strong foundation for management. Store managers receive compensation in the form of a base salary and incentive bonuses. District and area managers also receive added incentives based upon the performance of stores in their district/area. Store managers perform sales training of new employees at the store level. Salespeople displaying particular talent are generally assigned to stores operated by district managers for training as a store manager. The Company has established a comprehensive program stressing the prevention and control of shrinkage losses. Steps taken to reduce shrinkage include monitoring cash refunds, voids, inappropriate discounts, employee sales and returns-to-vendor. The Company also has electronic article surveillance systems in approximately 99% of the Company's stores as well as surveillance camera systems in approximately 74% of the stores. As a result, the Company achieved a merchandise shrinkage rate of 0.6% of net sales for fiscal 2003, 0.6% of net sales for fiscal 2002 and 0.7% for fiscal year 2001. The average store is approximately 4,900 square feet (of which the Company estimates an average of approximately 80% is selling space), and stores range in size from 2,600 square feet to 8,475 square feet. PURCHASING AND DISTRIBUTION The Company has a very experienced buying team. The buying team includes the President, the Vice President of Women's Merchandising, one women's merchandiser, two men's merchandisers and six buyers. The top four members of this buying team combined, have over 100 years of experience with the Company. The experience and leadership within the buying team contributes significantly to the company's success by enabling the buying team to react quickly to changes in fashion and by providing extensive knowledge of sources for branded and private label goods. The Company purchases products from manufacturers within the United States and from some foreign manufacturers. The Company's merchandising team monitors U.S. fashion centers (in New York and on the West Coast) and shops high fashion stores to adapt new ideas to The Buckle. The Company continually monitors fabric selection, quality and delivery schedules. The Company has not experienced any material difficulties with merchandise manufactured in foreign countries. The Company does not have long-term or exclusive contracts with any brand name manufacturer or supplier. The Company does have a long term relationship with an agent in Hong Kong for the manufacture of The Buckle, Inc.'s private label merchandise. An agreement with this company was entered into on November 28, 1994, for orders placed subsequent to that date. In fiscal 2003, Lucky Brand Dungarees made up 24.3% of the Company's net sales. No other vendor accounted for more than 10% of the Company's sales. Other current significant vendors include Silver, Fossil, Ecko, Mavi, Billabong, Quiksilver/Roxy and Hurley. The Company continually strives to offer brands that are currently popular with its customers and, therefore, the Company's suppliers and purchases from specific vendors may vary significantly from year to year. The Buckle stores generally carry the same merchandise, with quantity and seasonal variations based upon historical sales data, climate and perceived local customer interest. The Company uses a centralized receiving and distribution center located within the corporate headquarters building in Kearney, Nebraska. Merchandise is received daily in Kearney where it is sorted, tagged with bar-coded tickets (unless the vendor UPC code can be used or the merchandise is pre-ticketed), and packaged for distribution to individual stores primarily via United Parcel Service. The Company's goal is to ship the majority of its merchandise out to the stores within one to two business days of receipt. This system allows stores to receive new merchandise almost every day, creating excitement within each store and providing customers with a good reason to shop often. When available, the Company uses merchandise "pre-packs" to expedite the movement of product through the distribution center. The Company's is currently looking into a building expansion that would allow further growth in office space as well as additional space for our supplies department and the online store. Our distribution center should allow for handling of up to 450 stores. The Company has developed an effective computerized system for tracking merchandise from the time it is checked in at the Company's distribution center until it arrives at the stores and is sold to a customer. The system's function is to insure that store shipments are delivered accurately and promptly, to account for inventory and to assist in allocating merchandise among stores. Management can track, on a daily basis, which merchandise is selling at specific locations and directs transfers of merchandise from one store to another as necessary. This allows stores to carry a reduced inventory while at the same time satisfying customer demands. To reduce inter-store shipping costs and provide more timely restocking of in-season merchandise, the Company warehouses a portion of initial shipments for later distribution. Sales reports are then used to replenish, on a basis of one to three times each week, those stores that are experiencing the greatest success selling specific styles, colors and sizes of merchandise. This system is also designed to prevent an over-crowded look in the stores at the beginning of a season. STORE LOCATIONS AND EXPANSION STRATEGIES As of April 1, 2004, the Company operated 318 stores in 38 states, including 2 stores opened in fiscal 2004. The existing stores are in 4 downtown locations, 11 strip centers, 7 lifestyle centers and 296 shopping malls. The Company anticipates opening approximately 10 additional new stores in fiscal 2004. All new stores for fiscal 2004 are expected to be located in higher traffic shopping malls except for two which are expected to be located in a lifestyle centers. The following table lists the location of existing stores as of April 1, 2004. Location of Stores
Number of Number of State Stores State Stores Alabama 5 Nebraska 16 Arizona 6 Nevada 1 Arkansas 5 New Mexico 4 California 10 North Carolina 7 Colorado 12 North Dakota 3 Florida 3 Ohio 12 Georgia 3 Oklahoma 13 Idaho 5 Oregon 2 Illinois 16 Pennsylvania 4 Indiana 12 South Carolina 1 Iowa 19 South Dakota 3 Kansas 16 Tennessee 8 Kentucky 6 Texas 33 Louisiana 7 Utah 9 Michigan 18 Virginia 2 Minnesota 11 Washington 7 Mississippi 5 West Virginia 2 Missouri 13 Wisconsin 13 Montana 5 Wyoming 1 --- Total 318 ===
The Buckle has grown significantly over the past ten years, with the number of stores increasing from 131 at the beginning of 1994 to 316 at the end of fiscal 2003. The Company's plan is to continue expansion by developing the geographic region it currently serves and by expanding into contiguous markets. The Company intends to open new stores only when management believes there is a reasonable expectation of satisfactory results. The following table sets forth information regarding store openings and closings since the beginning of fiscal 1994 to the end of fiscal 2003: Total Number of Stores Per Year
Fiscal Open at start Opened in Closed in Year of year Current Year Current Year Total 1994 131 16 - 147 1995 147 17 - 164 1996 164 17 - 181 1997 181 19 1 199 1998 199 24 1 222 1999 222 27 1 248 2000 248 28 2 274 2001 274 24 3 295 2002 295 11 2 304 2003 304 16 4 316
The Company's criteria used when considering a particular location for expansion include: 1. Market area, including proximity to existing markets to capitalize on name recognition; 2. Trade area population (number, average age, and college population); 3. Economic vitality of market area; 4. Mall location, anchor tenants, tenant mix, average sales per square foot; 5. Available location within a mall, square footage, storefront width, and facility of using the current store design; 6. Availability of suitable management personnel for the market; 7. Cost of rent, including minimum rent, common area and extra charges; 8. Estimated construction costs, including landlord charge backs and tenant allowances. The Company generally seeks sites of 4,000 to 5,000 square feet for its stores. The projected cost of opening a store with the new design is approximately $710,000, including construction costs of approximately $560,000 (prior to any construction allowance received) and inventory costs of approximately $150,000, net of accounts payable. The Company anticipates opening approximately 12 new stores during fiscal 2004 and completing the remodeling of approximately 8 existing stores. Remodels range from partial to full, with construction costs for a full remodel being nearly the same as for a new store. Of the stores scheduled for remodeling during fiscal 2004, it is estimated that each will receive full remodeling. The Company has budgeted a total of $22.0 million (before estimated construction allowances from landlords of $3.1 million) for new store construction, remodeling, technology upgrades and improvements at the corporate headquarters during fiscal 2004. The Company plans to expand in 2004 by opening stores in existing markets. New store openings are generally scheduled to coincide with the increased customer traffic of the Easter, back-to-school or Christmas holiday shopping seasons. The Company believes that, given the time required for training personnel, staffing a store and developing adequate district and regional managers, its current management infrastructure is sufficient to support its currently planned rate of growth. The Company's ability to expand in the future will depend, in part, on general business conditions, the ability to find suitable malls with acceptable sites on satisfactory terms, the availability of financing and the readiness of trained store managers. There can be no assurance that the Company's expansion plans will be fulfilled in whole or in part, or that leases under negotiation for planned new sites will be obtained on terms favorable to the Company. MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS The Company's management information systems (MIS) and electronic data processing systems (EDP) consist of a full range of retail, financial and merchandising systems, including purchasing, inventory distribution and control, sales reporting, accounts payable and merchandise management. The system includes PC based point-of-sale (POS) registers equipped with bar code readers in each store. These registers are polled nightly by the central computer (IBM AS/400) using a virtual private network for collection of comprehensive data, including complete item-level sales information, employee time clocking, merchandise transfers and receipts, special orders, supply orders and returns-to-vendor. In conjunction with the nightly polling, the central computer sends the PC server messages from various departments at the Company headquarters and price changes for the price lookup (PLU) file maintained within the POS registers. Each weekday morning, the Company initiates an electronic "sweep" of the individual store bank accounts to the Company's primary concentration account. This allows the Company to meet its obligations with a minimum of borrowing and to invest excess cash on a timely basis. Management monitors the performance of each of its stores on a continual basis. Daily information is used to evaluate inventory, determine markdowns, analyze profitability and assist management in the scheduling and compensation of employees. Additionally, reports are generated verifying daily bank deposit information against recorded sales, identifying transactions rung at prices that differ from the PLU file, and listing selected "exception" transactions (e.g. refunds, cash paid-outs, discounts). These reports are used to help assure consistency among the stores and to help prevent losses due to error or dishonesty. The PLU system allows management to control merchandise pricing centrally, permitting faster and more accurate processing of sales at the store and the monitoring of specific inventory items to confirm that centralized pricing decisions are carried out in each of the stores. Management is able to direct all price changes, including promotional, clearance and markdowns on a central basis and estimate the financial impact of such changes. The virtual private network for communication with the stores also supports the Company's intranet site. The intranet allows stores to view various types of information from the corporate office, including timely information from the advertising, merchandising and benefits departments. Stores can also perform product searches with pictures on the intranet and request employee numbers for new teammates. The Company is committed to ongoing review of the MIS and EDP systems to provide productive, timely information and effective controls. This review includes testing of new products and systems to assure that the Company is aware of technological developments. Most important, continual feedback is sought from every level of the Company to assure that information provided is pertinent to all aspects of the Company's operations. EMPLOYEES As of January 31, 2004, the Company had approximately 5,800 employees - approximately 1,046 of whom were full-time. The Company has an experienced management team and substantially all of the management team, from store managers through senior management, commenced work for the Company on the sales floor. The Company experiences high turnover of store and distribution center employees, primarily due to having a significant number of part-time employees. However, the Company has not experienced significant difficulty in hiring qualified personnel. Of the total employees, approximately 300 are employed at the corporate headquarters and in the distribution center. None of the Company's employees are represented by a union. Management believes that employee relations are good. The Company provides medical, dental, life insurance and long-term disability plans, as well as a 401(k) and a section 125 cafeteria plan for eligible employees. An employee must be at least 20 years of age and work a minimum of 1,000 hours during the plan year to be eligible for the 401(k) plan. To be eligible for the plans, other than the 401(k) Plan, an employee must have worked for the Company for 90 days or more, and his or her normal workweek must be 35 hours or more. As of January 31, 2004, 867 employees participated in the medical plan, 877 in the dental plan, 848 in the life insurance plan, 822 in the long-term disability plan and 332 in the cafeteria plan. With respect to the medical, dental and life insurance plans, the Company pays 80% to 100% of the employee's expected premium cost plus 20% to 100% of the expected cost of dependent coverage under the health plan. The exact percentage is based upon the employee's term of employment and job classification within the Company. In addition, all employees receive discounts on company merchandise. COMPETITION The men's and women's apparel industries are highly competitive with fashion, selection, quality, price, location, store environment and service being the principal competitive factors. While the Company believes that it is able to compete favorably with other merchandisers, including department stores and specialty retailers, with respect to each of these factors, the Company believes it competes mainly on the basis of customer service and merchandise selection. In the men's merchandise areas, the Company competes with specialty retailers such as Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters, Hollister, Hot Topic, Gap and Pacific Sunwear. The men's market also competes with certain department stores, such as Dillards, Federated stores, May Company stores, Saks and other local or regional department stores and specialty retailers, as well as with mail order and internet merchandisers. In the women's merchandise area, the Company competes with specialty retailers such as Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters, Express, Aeropostale, Hollister, Gap, Maurices, Pacific Sunwear, Wet Seal and Vanity. The women's sales also compete with department stores, such as Dillards, Federated stores, May Company stores, Saks and certain local or regional department stores and specialty retailers, as well as with mail order and internet merchandisers. Many of the Company's competitors are considerably larger and have substantially greater financial, marketing and other resources than the Company, and there is no assurance that the Company will be able to compete successfully with them in the future. Furthermore, while the Company believes it competes effectively for favorable site locations and lease terms, competition for prime locations within a mall is intense. TRADEMARKS "BUCKLE", "BKLE", "RECLAIM", "BKE", "THE BUCKLE" and "GIMMICK" are federally registered trademarks of the Company. The Company believes the strength of its trademarks is of considerable value to its business, and its trademarks are important to its marketing efforts. The Company intends to protect and promote its trademarks as management deems appropriate. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY The Executive Officers of the Company are listed below, together with brief accounts of their experience and certain other information. DANIEL J. HIRSCHFELD, AGE 62. Mr. Hirschfeld is Chairman of the Board of the Company. He has served as Chairman of the Board since April 19, 1991. Prior to that time, Mr. Hirschfeld served as President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Hirschfeld has been involved in all aspects of the Company's business, including the development of the Company's management information systems. DENNIS H. NELSON, AGE 54. Mr. Nelson is President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Company. He has held the titles of President and Director since April 19, 1991. Mr. Nelson was elected Chief Executive Officer on March 17, 1997. Mr. Nelson began his career with the Company in 1970 as a part-time salesman while he was attending Kearney State College (now the University of Nebraska - Kearney). While attending college, he became involved in merchandising and sales supervision for the Company. Upon graduation from college in 1973, Mr. Nelson became a full-time employee of the Company and he has worked in all phases of the Company's operations since that date. Prior to his election as President and Chief Operating Officer on April 19, 1991, Mr. Nelson performed all of the functions normally associated with those positions. KAREN B. RHOADS, AGE 45. Ms. Rhoads is the Vice-President - Finance, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and a Director of the Company. Ms. Rhoads was elected a Director on April 19, 1991. She worked in the corporate offices during college and later worked part-time on the sales floor. Ms. Rhoads practiced as a CPA for 6 1/2 years, during which time she began working on tax and accounting matters for the Company as a client. She has been employed with the Company since November 1987. JAMES E. SHADA, AGE 48. Mr. Shada is Executive Vice President - Sales and a Director of the Company. He was elected Executive Vice President on May 31, 2001 and served as Vice President of Sales from April 19, 1991 until such date. Mr. Shada was elected Director of the Company on May 30, 2002. He began employment with the Company in November of 1978 as a salesperson. Between 1979 and 1985, he managed and opened new stores for the Company, and in 1985 Mr. Shada became the Company's sales manager. He is also involved in site selection and development and education of personnel as store managers and as area and district managers. BRETT P. MILKIE, AGE 44. Mr. Milkie is Vice President-Leasing. He was elected Vice President-Leasing on May 30, 1996. Mr. Milkie was a leasing agent for a national retail mall developer for 6 years prior to joining the company in January 1992 as director of leasing. KARI SMITH, AGE 40. Ms. Smith is Vice President - Sales. She has held this position since May 31, 2001. Ms. Smith joined the Company May 16, 1978 as a part-time salesperson. Later she became store manager in Great Bend, KS and then began working with other stores as an area manager. Ms. Smith has continued to develop her involvement with the sales management executive team, helping with manager meetings and new store manager development, as well as providing support for store managers, area managers and district managers. PATRICIA WHISLER, AGE 47. Ms. Whisler is Vice President of Women's Merchandising. She has held this position since May 31, 2001. Ms. Whisler joined the Company in February 1976 as a part-time salesperson and later became manager of a Buckle store before returning to the corporate office in 1983 to work as part of the growing merchandising team. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND RISK FACTORS Information in this report, other than historical information, may be considered to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Such statements are made in good faith by the Company and the Company intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. In connection with these safe-harbor provisions, the Company is providing cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements which reflect management's current views and estimates of future economic conditions, company performance and financial results. The statements are based on many estimates, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ materially from those projected in any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included in this report (including Exhibit 13, Annual Report to Shareholders), are based upon information available to the Company as of the date of this report. The Company further cautions that the risk factors contained herein are not exhaustive or exclusive. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after such statements are made. Some of the uncertainties include the following: MERCHANDISING/FASHION SENSITIVITY. The Company's success is largely dependent upon its ability to gauge the fashion tastes of its customers and to provide merchandise that satisfies customer demand in a timely manner. The Company's failure to anticipate, identify or react appropriately and timely to the changes in fashion trends could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. Misjudgments or unanticipated fashion changes could also have a material adverse effect on the Company's image with its customers. PRIVATE LABEL MERCHANDISE. Sales from private label merchandise accounted for approximately 18% and 11% of the net sales for fiscal 2003 and fiscal 2002, respectively. The Company may increase or decrease the percentage of net sales in private label merchandise in the future. The Company's private label products generally earn a higher margin than branded product, thus changes in the private label mix may have a material adverse effect on the Company's sales, merchandise margin, financial condition and results of operations. FLUCTUATIONS IN COMPARABLE STORE NET SALES RESULTS. The Company's comparable store net sales results have fluctuated in the past and are expected to continue to fluctuate in the future. A variety of factors affect comparable sales results, including changes in fashion trends, changes in the Company's merchandise mix, calendar shifts of holiday periods, actions by competitors, weather conditions and general economic conditions. The Company's comparable store net sales results for a particular period in the future may decrease. As a result of these or other factors, the Company's future comparable sales are likely to have a significant effect on the market price of the Company's common stock. EXPANSION AND MANAGEMENT OF GROWTH. The Buckle, Inc.'s continued growth depends on its ability to open and operate stores on a profitable basis and management's ability to manage planned expansion. During fiscal 2004, the Company plans to open 12 new stores. This expansion is dependent upon factors such as the ability to locate and obtain favorable store sites, negotiate acceptable lease terms, obtain necessary merchandise and hire and train qualified management and other employees. There may be factors outside of the Company's control that affect the ability to expand, including general economic conditions. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve its planned expansion or that such expansion will be profitable. Any failure to manage growth could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. RELIANCE ON KEY PERSONNEL. The continued success of the Buckle, Inc. is dependent to a significant degree on the continued service of key personnel, including senior management. The loss of a member of senior management could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. The Company's success in the future will also be dependent upon the Company's ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. The Company's failure to attract and retain qualified personnel could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. DEPENDENCE ON A SINGLE DISTRIBUTION FACILITY. The distribution function for all of the Company's stores is handled from a single facility in Kearney, Nebraska. Any significant interruption in the operation of the distribution facility due to natural disasters, system failures or other unforeseen causes would have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. There can be no assurance that the current facilities will be adequate to support the Company's future growth. RELIANCE ON FOREIGN SOURCES OF PRODUCTION. The Company purchases a portion of its private label merchandise directly in foreign markets. In addition, some of the Company's domestic vendors manufacture goods overseas. The Company does not have any long-term merchandise supply contracts and its imports are subject to existing or potential duties, tariffs and quotas. The Company faces a variety of risks associated with doing business overseas including competition for facilities and quotas, political instability, possible new legislation relating to imports that could limit the quantity of merchandise that may be imported, imposition of duties, taxes and other charges on imports and local business practice and political issues which may result in adverse publicity. The Company's inability to rely on foreign sources of production due to these or other causes could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. The Company cautions that the risk factors described above could cause actual results to vary materially from those anticipated from any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. Management cannot assess the impact of each factor on the Company's business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to vary from those contained in forward-looking statements. ITEM 2 - PROPERTIES All of the store locations operated by the Company are leased facilities. Most of the Company's stores have lease terms of approximately ten years and generally do not contain renewal options. In the past, the Company has not experienced problems renewing its leases, although no assurance can be given that the Company can renew existing leases on favorable terms. The Company seeks to negotiate extensions on leases for stores undergoing remodeling to provide terms of approximately ten years after completion of remodeling. Consent of the landlord generally is required to remodel or change the name under which the Company does business. The Company has not experienced problems in obtaining such consent in the past. Most leases provide for a fixed minimum rental plus an additional rental cost based upon a set percentage of sales beyond a specified breakpoint, plus common area and other charges. The current terms of the Company's leases, including automatic renewal options, expire on or before January 31st of each of the following years:
Number of expiring Year leases 2005 49 2006 34 2007 27 2008 23 2009 24 2010 44 2011 38 2012 and later 79 -- Total 318 ===
The corporate headquarters and distribution center for the Company operate within a facility purchased by the Company in 1988, and located in Kearney, NE. The building provides approximately 179,000 square feet of space with over 70% of the area being allocated for the distribution and returns-to-vendor departments. During fiscal 2000, the Company purchased a 40,000 square foot building with warehouse and office space near the corporate headquarters, which has given the Company flexibility in its growth. The Company also acquired a 50-year lease, with favorable lease terms, on the land the building is built upon. ITEM 3 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of its operations in the normal course of business. As of the date of this form, the Company was not engaged in any legal proceedings that are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on the Company. ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2003. PART II ITEM 5 - MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED SHAREHOLDER MATTERS The Company's common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BKE. Prior to the Company's initial public offering on May 6, 1992, there was no public market for the Company's common stock. During the third quarter of fiscal 2003, the Board of Directors authorized the Company's first ever cash dividend of 10 cent per share to be paid quarterly, with the initial dividend payment on October 27, 2003 and the second quarterly dividend payment on January 27, 2004. The number of record holders of the Company's common stock as of March 26, 2004 was 375. Based upon information from the principal market makers, the Company believes there are more than 3,000 beneficial owners. The closing price of the Company's common stock on March 26, 2004 was $28.10. Additional information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information on page 32 of the Company's 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders under the caption "Stock Prices by Quarter" which is attached to this Form 10-K. The remainder of the information required by this item appears under the caption "Equity Compensation Plan Information" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Shareholders' Meeting and is incorporated by reference. ITEM 6 - SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information on page 9 in the Company's 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders under the caption "Selected Financial Data" which is attached to this Form 10-K. ITEM 7 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to the information appearing on pages 10 through 15 in the Company's 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders which is attached to this Form 10-K. ITEM 7A - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK To the extent that we borrow under our line of credit facility, we would be exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates. As of January 31, 2004, no borrowings were outstanding under our line of credit facility. We are not a party to any derivative financial instruments. Additionally, we are exposed to market risk related to interest rate risk on the short- and long-term investments of excess cash in short- and long-term investment grade interest-bearing securities. If there are changes in interest rates, those changes would affect the investment income we earn on those investments. We have certain investments that generate interest income. These investments have carrying values that are subject to interest rate changes that could impact our earnings to the extent that we did not hold the investments to maturity. ITEM 8 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA The financial statements together with the independent auditors' report thereon of Deloitte & Touche LLP, dated March 4, 2004, appearing on pages 16 through 31 of the Company's 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders (which is attached to this Form 10-K) are incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K. ITEM 9 - CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE None. ITEM 9A - CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES Within 90 days prior to the date of this report, the company evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15. Based upon the evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in alerting them, in a timely manner, to material information relating to the Company required to be included in the Company's periodic SEC filings. Additionally, the CEO and CFO determined that there were no significant changes in the Company's internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect the Company's internal controls subsequent to the date of their most recent evaluation. PART III ITEM 10 - DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT The information required by this item appears under the captions "Executive Officers of the Company" appearing on pages 10 and 11 of this report, and "Election of Directors" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Shareholders' Meeting and is incorporated by reference. ITEM 11- EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The information required by this item appears under the caption "Executive Compensation and Other Information" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Shareholders' Meeting and is incorporated by reference. ITEM 12 - SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT The information required by this item appears under the caption "Election of Directors" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Shareholders' Meeting and is incorporated by reference. ITEM 13 - CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS The information required by this item appears under the caption "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Shareholders' Meeting and is incorporated by reference. ITEM 14 - PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES Information regarding the fees billed by our independent auditor and the nature of services comprising the fees for each of the two most recent fiscal years in each of the following categories: (1) audit fees, (2) audit-related fees, (3) tax fees and (4) all other fees, is set forth in the Audit Committee Report segment of the Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. PART IV ITEM 15 - EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (A) (1) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The Company's 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders, a copy of which appears as Exhibit 13 to this Form 10-K Report, contains the following on pages 16 through 31 and they are hereby incorporated by reference to this report: Balance Sheets as of January 31, 2004, and February 1, 2003 Statements of Income for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004 Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004 Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004 Notes to Financial Statements for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004 Independent Auditors' Report (A) (2) FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE Independent Auditors' Report All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or the required information is presented in the financial statements or notes thereto. This schedule is on page 17. (B) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K On December 16, 2003, we issued a press release announcing our third quarter 2003 earnings, filed on Form 8-K with the SEC on December 17, 2003. (C) EXHIBITS See index to exhibits on pages 18 through 20. 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. THE BUCKLE, INC. Date: April 13, 2004 By: /s/ DENNIS H. NELSON ----------------------------------- Dennis H. Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on the 13th day of April, 2004. /s/ DANIEL J. HIRSCHFELD ----------------------------------------- -------------------------- Daniel J. Hirschfeld Bill L. Fairfield Chairman of the Board and Director Director /s/ DENNIS H. NELSON ----------------------------------------- -------------------------- Dennis H. Nelson Ralph M. Tysdal President and Chief Executive Officer Director and Director /s/ KAREN B. RHOADS ----------------------------------------- -------------------------- Karen B. Rhoads Bruce L. Hoberman Vice President of Finance and Director Chief Financial Officer and Director /s/ JAMES E. SHADA ----------------------------------------- -------------------------- James E. Shada David A. Roehr Executive Vice President of Sales and Director Director /s/ ROBERT E. CAMPBELL /s/ WILLIAM D. ORR ----------------------------------------- -------------------------- Robert E. Campbell William D. Orr Director Director INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT BOARD OF DIRECTORS THE BUCKLE, INC. We have audited the financial statements of The Buckle, Inc., ("the Company") as of January 31, 2004 and February 1, 2003, and for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2004, and have issued our report thereon dated March 4, 2004; such financial statements and report are included in your 2003 Annual Report to Stockholders and are incorporated herein by reference. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule of The Buckle, Inc., listed in Item 15(a)(2). This financial statement schedule is the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audits. In our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP Omaha, Nebraska March 4, 2004 SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Balance, February 3, 2001 $ 250,000 Amounts charged to costs and expenses 816,276 Write-off of uncollectible accounts (816,276) --------- Balance, February 2, 2002 250,000 Amounts charged to costs and expenses 856,309 Write-off of uncollectible accounts (889,309) --------- Balance, February 1, 2003 217,000 Amounts charged to costs and expenses 769,383 Write-off of uncollectible accounts (805,383) --------- Balance, January 31, 2004 $ 181,000 =========
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
EXHIBITS PAGE NUMBER OR INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO (3) Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws. (3.1) Articles of Incorporation Exhibit 3.1 to Form S-1 of The Buckle, Inc. as amended No. 33-46294 (3.1.1) Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of The Buckle, Inc. (3.2) By-Laws of The Buckle, Inc. Exhibit 3.2 to Form S-1 No. 33-46294 (4) Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including indentures (4.1) See Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2 for provisions of the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws of the Registrant defining rights of holders of Common Stock of the registrant (4.2) Form of stock certificate for Common Stock Exhibit 4.1 to Form S-1 No. 33-46294 (9) Not applicable (10) Material Contracts (10.1) 1991 Stock Incentive Plan Exhibit 10.1 to Form S-1 No. 33-46294 (10.2) 1991 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan Exhibit 10.2 to Form S-1 No. 33-46294 (10.3) Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan and Exhibit 10.3 to Form S-1 Agreement With Dennis Nelson No. 33-46294 (10.4) Acknowledgment for Dennis H. Nelson dated April 5, 2004 (10.5) Acknowledgment for James E. Shada dated April 5, 2004 (10.6) Acknowledgment for Brett P. Milkie dated April 5, 2004 (10.7) Acknowledgment for Patricia K. Whisler dated April 5, 2004 (10.8) Acknowledgment for Kari G. Smith dated April 5, 2004 (10.10) Cash or Deferred Profit Sharing Plan Exhibit 10.10 to Form S-1 No. 33-46294 (10.10.1) Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (10.11) Revolving Line of Credit Note dated August 1, 2003 between The Buckle, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. for a $17.5 million line of credit
EXHIBITS PAGE NUMBER OR INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO (10.12) Credit Agreement dated August 1, 2003 between The Buckle, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A, regarding $17.5 million line of credit for working capital and letters of credit. (10.17) 1993 Director Stock Option Plan Exhibit A to Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting to be held May 26, 1993 (10.23) 1997 Executive Stock Option Plan Exhibit B to Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting to be held May 28, 1998 (10.24) 1998 Restricted Stock Plan Exhibit C to Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting to be held May 28, 1998 (10.27) 2003 Management Incentive Plan Exhibit A to Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting to be held May 29, 2003 (12) Not applicable (13) 2003 Annual Report to Stockholders (18) Not applicable (19) Not applicable (22) Not applicable (23) Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP (25) Not applicable (28) Not applicable (31a) Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. (31b) Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. (32) Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.