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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 27, 201426, 2015Commission file number 1–6770
MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
25-0790410
(State or other jurisdiction(I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization)Identification No.)

8285 Tournament Drive, Suite 150 
Memphis, Tennessee
38125
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)

Registrant’sRegistrant's telephone number, including area code: (901) 753-3200

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

Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
  
Common Stock, $0.01 Par ValueNew York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

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

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


Indicate by a check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.             Yes S☒  No £

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, 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 S☒  No £

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’sRegistrant'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.  S

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 definitions of “large"large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”" "accelerated filer" and “smaller"smaller reporting company”company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
   
Large accelerated filer    S☒ 
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 Act).  Yes £ No S

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the Registrant’sRegistrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $1,619,095,888.
$1,997,772,278.

The number of shares of the Registrant’sRegistrant's common stock outstanding as of February 20, 201519, 2016 was 56,924,46357,158,608 excluding 23,258,54123,024,396 treasury shares.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the following document are incorporated by reference into this Report: Registrant’sRegistrant's Definitive Proxy Statement for the 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, scheduled to be mailed on or about March 25, 201524, 2016 (Part III).

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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.

_____________________

As used in this report, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Company,” “Mueller,”"we," "us," "our," "Company," "Mueller," and “Registrant”"Registrant" mean Mueller Industries, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries taken as a whole, unless the context indicates otherwise.

____________________

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PART I
 
ITEM 1.
BUSINESS
 
Introduction

Mueller Industries, Inc. (the Company) is a leading manufacturer of plumbing, heating, ventilation,copper, brass, aluminum, and air-conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, and industrialplastic products.  The range of these products is broad:  copper tube and fittings; line sets; brass and copper alloy rod, bar, and shapes; aluminum and brass forgings; aluminum and copper impact extrusions; plastic fittings and valves; refrigeration valves and fittings; fabricated tubular products; and steel nipples.  The CompanyWe also resellsresell imported brass and plastic plumbing valves, malleable iron fittings, faucets, and plumbing specialty products.  Mueller’sOur operations are located throughout the United States and in Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, and China.

The Company’sOur businesses are aggregated into two reportable segments:

·
Plumbing & Refrigeration:  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment is composed of Standard Products (SPD), Great Lakes Copper Ltd. (Great Lakes), European Operations, and Mexican Operations.  SPD manufactures and sells copper tube, copper and plastic fittings, line sets, and valves in North America and sources products for import distribution in North America.  Great Lakes manufactures copper tube and line sets in Canada and sells its products primarily in the U.S. and Canada. European Operations manufacture copper tube in the United Kingdom, which is sold throughout Europe.  Mexican Operations consist of pipe nipple manufacturing and import distribution businesses including product lines of malleable iron fittings and other plumbing specialties.  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment sells products to wholesalers in the HVAC,heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and refrigeration markets, to distributors to the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries, and to building material retailers.

·Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM):  The OEM segment is composed of Industrial Products (IPD), Engineered Products (EPD), and Jiangsu Mueller–Xingrong Copper Industries Limited (Mueller-Xingrong), the Company’sCompany's Chinese joint venture.  The OEM segment manufactures and sells brass and copper alloy rod, bar, and shapes; aluminum and brass forgings; aluminum and copper impact extrusions; refrigeration valves fittings, and components;fittings; fabricated tubular products; and gas valves and assemblies.  Mueller-Xingrong manufactures engineered copper tube primarily for air-conditioning applications; these products are sold primarily to OEMs located in China.  The OEM segment sells its products primarily to original equipment manufacturers, many of which are in the HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, and refrigerationindustrial markets.

Certain administrative expenses and expenses related primarily to retiree benefits at inactive operations are combined into the Corporate and Eliminations classification.  

Financial information concerning segments and geographic information appears under “Note 15"Note 16 - Industry Segments”Segments" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, which is incorporated herein by reference.

New housing starts and commercial construction are important determinants of the Company’sCompany's sales to the HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing markets because the principal end use of a significant portion of our products is in the construction of single and multi-family housing and commercial buildings.  Repairs and remodeling projects are also important drivers of underlying demand for these products.  

Mueller was incorporated in Delaware on October 3, 1990.

Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment

The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment includes SPD, which manufactures a broad line of copper tube in sizes ranging from 1/8 inch to 8 inch diameter that is sold in various straight lengths and coils.  We are a market leader in the air-conditioning and refrigeration service tube markets.  Additionally,markets and we also supply a variety of water tube in straight lengths and coils used for plumbing applications in virtually every type of construction project.  Lastly,Additionally, SPD manufactures copper and plastic fittings, line sets, and related components for the plumbing and heating industry that are used in water distribution systems, heating systems, air-conditioning, and refrigeration applications, and drainage, waste, and vent systems.  Lastly, SPD imports and redistributes residential and commercial plumbing products.  A major portion of SPD’sSPD's products are ultimately used in the domestic residential and commercial construction markets.

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This segment also includes Great Lakes, which manufactures copper tube and line sets in Canada, European Operations, which manufacture copper tube for distribution in Europe, and Mexican Operations, which fabricates steel pipe nipples and resells imported brass and plastic plumbing valves, malleable iron fittings, faucets, and plumbing specialty products to plumbing wholesalers, distributors to the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries and building materials retailers.

On August 6, 2010, we expanded our existing line sets business by purchasing certain assets from Linesets, Inc., a manufacturer of assembled line sets with operations in Phoenix, Arizona and Atlanta, Georgia.

We acquired Howell Metal Company (Howell) on October 17, 2013, and  Yorkshire Copper Tube (Yorkshire) on February 28, 2014.2014, and Great Lakes Copper (Great Lakes) on July 31, 2015.  Howell manufactures copper tube and line sets for U.S. distribution while Yorkshire produces European standard copper distribution tubes.  Great Lakes manufactures copper tube and line sets for distribution in Canada and the U.S.  These acquisitions complement our existing copper tube businesses in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.

We disposed of Mueller Primaflow Limited (Primaflow), our U.K. based plumbing and heating systems import distribution business, on November 21, 2014.  This business was part of the European Operations in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.
 
This segment markets primarily through its own sales and distribution organization, which maintains sales offices and distribution centers throughout the United States and in Canada, Mexico, and Europe.  Additionally, products are sold and marketed through a complement of agents, which, when combined with our sales organization, provide the Company broad geographic market representation.

The total amount of order backlog for the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment as of December 27, 201426, 2015 was not significant.

We compete with various companies, depending on the product line.  In the U.S. copper tube business, domestic competition includes Cerro Flow Products LLC, Cambridge-Lee Industries LLC (a subsidiary of Industrias Unidas S.A. de C.V.), and KobeWieland Copper Products LLC, as well as many actual and potential foreign competitors.  In the European copper tube business, we compete with several European-based manufacturers of copper tube as well as other foreign-based manufacturers.  In the Canadian copper tube business, our competitors include Wolseley plc and Crane Plumbing, as well as other foreign-based manufacturers.  In the copper fittings market, our domestic competitors include Elkhart Products Company (a subsidiary of Aalberts Industries N.V.) and NIBCO, Inc., as well as  We also compete with several foreign manufacturers.  Additionally, our copper tube and fittings businesses compete with a large number of manufacturers of substitute products made from other metals and plastic.  The plastic fittings competitors include NIBCO, Inc., Charlotte Pipe & Foundry, and other companies.  Management believes that no single competitor offers such a wide-ranging product line as Mueller and that this is a competitive advantage in some markets.


OEM Segment

The OEM segment includes IPD, which manufactures brass rod, nonferrous forgings, and impact extrusions that are sold primarily to OEMs in the plumbing, refrigeration, fluid power, and automotive industries, as well as to other manufacturers and distributors.  We extrude brass, bronze, and copper alloy rod in sizes ranging from 3/8 inches to 4 inches in diameter.  These alloys are used in applications that require a high degree of machinability, wear and corrosion resistance, as well as electrical conductivity.  IPD also manufactures brass and aluminum forgings, which are used in a wide variety of products, including automotive components, brass fittings, industrial machinery, valve bodies, gear blanks, and computer hardware.  Lastly, IPD serves the automotive, military ordnance, aerospace, and general manufacturing industries with cold-formed aluminum and copper impact extrusions.  Typical applications for impacts are high strength ordnance, high-conductivity electrical components, builders’builders' hardware, hydraulic systems, automotive parts, and other uses where toughness must be combined with varying complexities of design and finish.  

This segment also includes EPD whichand Mueller-Xingrong.  EPD manufactures and fabricates valves and custom OEM products for refrigeration, and air-conditioning, gas appliance, and barbecue grill applications.  Additionally, EPDapplications, Mueller-Xingrong manufactures shaped and formedengineered copper tube produced to tight tolerancesprimarily for baseboard heating, appliances, and medical instruments.air-conditioning applications.   The total amount of order backlog for the OEM segment as of December 27, 201426, 2015 was not significant.

On December 28, 2010, we purchased certain assets from Tube Forming, L.P. (TFI).  TFI had operations in Carrolton, Texas, and Guadalupe, Mexico, where it produced precision copper return bends and crossovers, and custom-made tube components and brazed assemblies, including manifolds and headers.
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On August 16, 2012, we acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of Westermeyer Industries, Inc. (Westermeyer), located in Bluffs, Illinois.  Westermeyer designs, manufactures, and distributes high-pressure components and accessories for the air-conditioning and refrigeration markets.  

On March 30, 2015, we acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of Turbotec Products, Inc. (Turbotec) with locations in Hickory, North Carolina and Bloomfield, Connecticut.  Turbotec manufactures coaxial heat exchangers and twisted tubes for the HVAC, geothermal, refrigeration, swimming pool heat pump, marine, ice machine, commercial boiler, and heat reclamation markets.

On June 18, 2015, we acquired all of the outstanding membership interests of Sherwood Valve Products, LLC (Sherwood) with locations in Washington, Pennsylvania, Valley View, Ohio, and Brooklyn, Ohio.  Sherwood manufactures valves and fluid control solutions for the HVAC, refrigeration, and compressed gas markets.

The acquisitionacquisitions of Westermeyer, complements the Company’sTurbotec, and Sherwood complement our existing refrigeration business.  
  
IPD and EPD primarily sell directly to OEM customers.  Competitors, primarily in the brass rod market, include Chase Brass and Copper Company, a subsidiary of Global Brass and Copper Holdings, Inc., and others, both domestic and foreign.  Outside of North America, IPD and EPD sell products through various channels.


Labor Relations

At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company employed approximately 3,8504,104 employees, of which approximately 2,0201,865 were represented by various unions.  Those union contracts will expire as follows:

Location
Expiration Date
Port Huron, Michigan (Local 218 IAM)May 1, 2016
Port Huron, Michigan (Local 44 UAW)July 20, 2016
Port Huron, Michigan (Local 119 SPFPA)April 1, 2016
Belding, MichiganSeptember 12, 2015
Brighton, MichiganJuly 31, 201514, 2018
Wynne, ArkansasJune 28, 20152018
Fulton, MississippiOctober 31, 2017September 30, 2018
North Wales, PennsylvaniaJuly 31, 20152018
Washington, PennsylvaniaJuly 25, 2016
Waynesboro, TennesseeNovember 7, 20152, 2018

The union agreements at the Company’sCompany's U.K. and Mexico operations are renewed annually.  The Company expects to renew its union contracts without material disruption of its operations.

Raw Material and Energy Availability

A substantial portion of our base metal requirements (primarily copper) is normally obtained through short-term supply contracts with competitive pricing provisions (for cathode) and the open market (for scrap).  Other raw materials used in the production of brass, including brass scrap, zinc, tin, and lead are obtained from zinc and lead producers, open-market dealers, and customers with brass process scrap.  Raw materials used in the fabrication of aluminum and plastic products are purchased in the open market from major producers.

Adequate supplies of raw material have historically been available to us from primary producers, metal brokers, and scrap dealers.  Sufficient energy in the form of natural gas, fuel oils, and electricity is available to operate our production facilities.  While temporary shortages of raw material and fuels may occur occasionally, to date they have not materially hampered our operations.

Our copper tube facilities can accommodate both refined copper and certain grades of copper scrap as the primary feedstock.  The Company has commitments from refined copper producers for a portion of its metal requirements for 2015.2016.  Adequate quantities of copper are currently available.  While we will continue to react to market developments, resulting pricing volatility or supply disruptions, if any, could nonetheless adversely affect the Company.

Environmental Proceedings

Compliance with environmental laws and regulations is a matter of high priority for the Company.  Mueller’sMueller's provision for environmental matters related to all properties was $0.1 million for 2015, $1.2 million for 2014, and $1.0 million for 2013, and $3.1 million for 2012.2013.  The reserve for environmental matters was $21.7 million at December 26, 2015 and $22.7 million at December 27, 2014 and $23.6 million at December 28, 2013.2014.  Environmental costs related to non-operating properties are classified as a component of other income, net and costs related to operating properties are included in cost of goods sold.  We do not currently anticipate that we will need to make material expenditures for compliance activities related to existing environmental matters during the 20152016 fiscal year, or for the next two fiscal years.

For a description of material pending environmental proceedings, see “Note 8"Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies”Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, which is incorporated herein by reference.


Other Business Factors

Our business is not materially dependent on patents, trademarks, licenses, franchises, or concessions held.  In addition, expenditures for company-sponsored research and development activities were not material during 2015, 2014, 2013, or 2012.2013.  No material portion of our business involves governmental contracts.  Seasonality of the Company’sCompany's sales is not significant.

SEC Filings

We make available through our internet website our Annual Reportannual reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reportsquarterly reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reportscurrent reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  To retrieve any of this information, you may access our internet home page at www.muellerindustries.com, select Investors, and then select SEC Filings.

Reports filed with the SEC may also be viewed or obtained at the SEC Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549.  Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.  The SEC maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC; the website address is www.sec.gov.


ITEM 1A.
RISK FACTORS

The Company is exposed to risk as it operates its businesses.  To provide a framework to understand our operating environment, we are providing a brief explanation of the more significant risks associated with our businesses.  Although we have tried to identify and discuss key risk factors, others could emerge in the future.  These risk factors should be considered carefully when evaluating the Company and its businesses.

Increases in costs and the availability of energy and raw materials used in our products could impact our cost of goods sold and our distribution expenses, which could have a material adverse impact on our operating margins.

Both the costs of raw materials used in our manufactured products (copper, brass, zinc, aluminum, and PVC and ABS resins) and energy costs (electricity, natural gas and fuel) have been volatile during the last several years, which has resulted in changes in production and distribution costs.  For example, recent and pending climate change regulation and initiatives on the state, regional, federal, and international levels that have focused on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the energy and utility sectors may affect energy availability and costs in the near future.  While we typically attempt to pass costs through to our customers or to modify or adapt our activities to mitigate the impact of increases, we may not be able to do so successfully.  Failure to fully pass increases to our customers or to modify or adapt our activities to mitigate the impact could have a material adverse impact on our operating margins.  Additionally, if we are for any reason unable to obtain raw materials or energy, our ability to manufacture our products would be impacted, which could have a material adverse impact on our operating margins.

7

The unplanned departure of key personnel could disrupt our business.

We depend on the continued efforts of our senior management.  The unplanned loss of key personnel, or the inability to hire and retain qualified executives, could negatively impact our ability to manage our business.

6

Economic conditions in the housing and commercial construction industries, as well as changes in interest rates, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Our business is sensitive to changes in general economic conditions, particularly in the housing and commercial construction industries.  Prices for our products are affected by overall supply and demand in the market for our products and for our competitors’competitors' products.  In particular, market prices of building products historically have been volatile and cyclical, and we may be unable to control the timing and extent of pricing changes for our products.  Prolonged periods of weak demand or excess supply in any of our businesses could negatively affect our revenues and margins and could result in a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

The markets that we serve, including, in particular, the housing and commercial construction industries, are significantly affected by movements in interest rates and the availability of credit.  Significantly higher interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  Our businesses are also affected by a variety of other factors beyond our control, including, but not limited to, employment levels, foreign currency exchange rates, unforeseen inflationary pressures, and consumer confidence.  Since we operate in a variety of geographic areas, our businesses are subject to the economic conditions in each such area.  General economic downturns or localized downturns in the regions where we have operations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

Although conditions improved in 20122013 and continued to improve in 20132014 and 2014,2015, the deterioration of the general economic environment has had a significant negative impact on businesses and consumers around the world since the crisis began in 2008.  In addition, the impact of the economy on the operations or liquidity of any party with which we conduct our business, including our suppliers and customers, may adversely impact our business.
 
Competitive conditions, including the impact of imports and substitute products and technologies, could have a material adverse effect on the demand for our products as well as our margins and profitability.

The markets we serve are competitive across all product lines.  Some consolidation of customers has occurred and may continue, which could shift buying power to customers.  In some cases, customers have moved production to low-cost countries such as China, or sourced components from there, which has reduced demand in North America for some of the products we manufacture.  These conditions could have a material adverse impact on our ability to maintain margins and profitability.  The potential threat of imports and substitute products is based upon many factors, including raw material prices, distribution costs, foreign exchange rates, production costs, and the development of emerging technologies and applications.  The end use of alternative import and/or substitute products could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.  Likewise, the development of new technologies and applications could result in lower demand for our products and have a material adverse effect on our business.

Our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations on cross border transactions and the translation of local currency results into U.S. dollars could have an adverse impact on our results of operations or financial position.

We conduct our business through subsidiaries in several different countries and export our products to many countries.  Fluctuations in currency exchange rates could have a significant impact on the competitiveness of our products as well as the reported results of our operations, which are presented in U.S. dollars.  A significant and growing portion of our products are manufactured in or acquired from suppliers located in lower cost regions.  Cross border transactions, both with external parties and intercompany relationships, result in increased exposure to foreign exchange fluctuations.  The strengthening of the U.S. dollar could expose our U.S. based businesses to competitive threats from lower cost producers in other countries such as China.  Lastly, our sales are translated into U.S. dollars for reporting purposes.  The strengthening of the U.S. dollar could result in unfavorable translation effects when the results of foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars.  Accordingly, significant changes in exchange rates, particularly the British pound sterling, Mexican peso, Canadian dollar, and the Chinese renminbi, could have an adverse impact on our results of operations or financial position.

We are subject to claims, litigation, and regulatory proceedings that could have a material adverse effect on us.

We are, from time-to-time, involved in various claims, litigation matters, and regulatory proceedings.  These matters may include contract disputes, personal injury claims, environmental claims, OSHAOccupational Safety and Health Administration inspections or proceedings, other tort claims, employment and tax matters and other litigation including class actions that arise in the ordinary course of our business.  Although we intend to defend these matters vigorously, we cannot predict with certainty the outcome or effect of any claim or other litigation matter, and there can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome of any litigation or regulatory proceeding.  Litigation and regulatory proceedings may have a material adverse effect on us because of potential adverse outcomes, defense costs, the diversion of our management’smanagement's resources, availability of insurance coverage and other factors.

A strike, other work stoppage or business interruption, or our inability to renew collective bargaining agreements on favorable terms, could impact our cost structure and our ability to operate our facilities and produce our products, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

As of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, approximately 2,0201,865 of our 3,8504,104 employees were covered by collective bargaining or similar agreements.  If we are unable to negotiate acceptable new agreements with the unions representing our employees upon expiration of existing contracts, we could experience strikes or other work stoppages.  Strikes or other work stoppages could cause a significant disruption of operations at our facilities, which could have an adverse impact on us.  New or renewal agreements with unions representing our employees could call for higher wages or benefits paid to union members, which would increase our operating costs and could adversely affect our profitability.  Higher costs and/or limitations on our ability to operate our facilities and manufacture our products resulting from increased labor costs, strikes or other work stoppages could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
   
In addition, unexpected interruptions in our operations or those of our customers or suppliers due to such causes as weather-related events or acts of God, such as earthquakes, could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.  For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that global climate change would be expected to increase the severity and possibly the frequency of severe weather patterns such as hurricanes.  Although the financial impact of such future events is not reasonably estimable at this time, should they occur, our operations in certain coastal and flood-prone areas or operations of our customers and suppliers could be adversely affected.  As a result of a fire at our Wynne, Arkansas, location, our copper tube casting operations were destroyed and consequently a significant portion of our redundant casting capacity is no longer available.  If our remaining copper tube casting operations were to become inoperable, for any reason, our domestic copper tube production could be significantly impaired and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

We are subject to environmental, health, and safety laws and regulations and future compliance may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

The nature of our operations exposes us to the risk of liabilities and claims with respect to environmental, health, and safety matters.  While we have established accruals intended to cover the cost of environmental remediation at contaminated sites, the actual cost is difficult to determine and may exceed our estimated reserves.  Further, changes to, or more rigorous enforcement or stringent interpretation of environmental or health and safety laws could require significant incremental costs to maintain compliance.  Recent and pending climate change regulation and initiatives on the state, regional, federal, and international levels may require certain of our facilities to reduce GHG emissions.  While not reasonably estimable at this time, this could require capital expenditures for environmental control facilities and/or the purchase of GHG emissions credits in the coming years.  In addition, with respect to environmental matters, future claims may be asserted against us for, among other things, past acts or omissions at locations operated by predecessor entities, or alleging damage or injury or seeking other relief in connection with environmental matters associated with our operations.  Future liabilities, claims, and compliance costs may have a material adverse effect on us because of potential adverse outcomes, defense costs, diversion of our resources, availability of insurance coverage, and other factors.  The overall impact of these requirements on our operations could increase our costs and diminish our ability to compete with products that are produced in countries without such rigorous standards; the long run impact could negatively impact our results and have a material adverse effect on our business.


If we do not successfully execute or effectively operate, integrate, leverage and grow acquired businesses, our financial results may suffer.

Our strategy for long-term growth, productivity and profitability depends in part on our ability to make prudent strategic acquisitions and to realize the benefits we expect when we make those acquisitions. In furtherance of Contents
this strategy, over the past several years, we have acquired businesses in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
While we currently anticipate that our past and future acquisitions will enhance our value proposition to customers and improve our long-term profitability, there can be no assurance that we will realize our expectations within the time frame we have established, if at all, or that we can continue to support the value we allocate to these acquired businesses, including their goodwill or other intangible assets.

ITEM 1B. 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.


ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES

Information pertaining to our major operating facilities is included below.  Except as noted, we own all of the principal properties.  In addition, we own and/or lease other properties used as distribution centers and corporate offices.  Our plants are in satisfactory condition and are suitable for the purpose for which they were designed and are now being used.
Location of FacilityBuilding Space (Sq. Ft.)Primary UseOwned or Leased
Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment
Fulton, MS649,500Manufacturing & Packaging579,500 Owned; 70,000 Leased
New Market, VA413,120ManufacturingOwned
Wynne, AR400,000Manufacturing & DistributionOwned
Ontario, CA211,000Manufacturing & DistributionLeased
Covington, TN159,500ManufacturingOwned
Phoenix, AZ61,000ManufacturingLeased
Lawrenceville, GA56,000ManufacturingLeased
Bilston, England402,500ManufacturingOwned
London, Ontario, Canada200,400ManufacturingLeased
Monterrey, Mexico152,000ManufacturingLeased
OEM Segment
Port Huron, MI450,000ManufacturingOwned
Belding, MI293,068ManufacturingOwned
North Wales, PA174,000ManufacturingOwned
Washington, PA108,275ManufacturingOwned
Bluffs, IL107,000ManufacturingOwned
Hickory, NC100,000ManufacturingOwned
Marysville, MI81,500ManufacturingOwned
9

     
Location of Facility Approximate Property SizeBuilding Space (Sq. Ft.) DescriptionPrimary UseOwned or Leased
     
 Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  
Fulton, MS
418,000 sq. ft.
52.37 acresOEM Segment (cont.)
 Copper tube mill.  Facility includes extruding and finishing equipment to produce copper tube, including tube feedstock for the Company’s copper fittings plants, line sets, and Precision Tube factory.
Fulton, MS
103,000 sq. ft.
11.9 acres
Casting facility.  Facility includes casting equipment to produce copper billets used in the adjoining copper tube mill.
Wynne, AR
400,000 sq. ft.
39.2 acres
(1)Copper tube mill.  Facility includes extrusion and finishing equipment to produce copper tube and line sets.
Fulton, MS
58,500 sq. ft.
15.53 acres
Packaging and bar coding facility for retail channel sales.
Fulton, MS
70,000 sq. ft.
7.68 acres
(2)Copper fittings plant.  High-volume facility that produces copper fittings using tube feedstock from the Company’s adjacent copper tube mill.
Covington, TN
159,500 sq. ft.
40.88 acres
Copper fittings plant.  Facility produces copper fittings using tube feedstock from the Company’s copper tube mills.
Ontario, CA211,000 sq. ft.(3)Plastics manufacturing plant and distribution center.  Produces DWV fittings using injection molding equipment.
Monterrey, Mexico152,000 sq. ft.(3)Pipe nipples plant.  Produces pipe nipples, cut pipe and merchant couplings.
Bilston, England, United Kingdom
402,500 sq. ft.
14.95 acres
Copper tube mill.  Facility includes casting, extruding, and finishing equipment to produce copper tube.

(continued)
10

ITEM 2.PROPERTIES

(continued)
LocationApproximate Property SizeDescription
Phoenix, AZ61,000 sq. ft.(3)Line sets plant.  Produces standard and custom-made line sets for HVAC markets.
Atlanta, GA56,000 sq. ft.(3)Line sets plant.  Produces standard and custom-made line sets for HVAC markets.
New Market, VA
413,120 sq. ft.
 36.15 acres
Copper Tube Mill.  Facility includes casting, extruding, and finishing equipment to produce copper tube and line sets.
OEM Segment
Port Huron, MI
322,500 sq. ft.
71.5 acres
Brass rod mill.  Facility includes casting, extruding, and finishing equipment to produce brass rods and bars, in various shapes and sizes.
Belding, MI
293,068 sq. ft.
17.64 acres
Brass rod and copper busbar mill.  Facility includes casting, extruding, and finishing equipment to produce brass rods and bars, in various shapes and sizes.
Port Huron, MI127,500 sq. ft.Forgings plant.  Produces brass and aluminum forgings.
Marysville, MI
81,500 sq. ft.
6.72 acres
Aluminum and copper impacts plant.  Produces made-to-order parts using cold impact processes.
     
Hartsville, TN 
78,000 sq. ft.
4.51 acres
 Refrigeration products plant.  Produces products used in refrigeration applications such as ball valves, line valves, and compressor valves.
Manufacturing Owned
Brooklyn, OH 75,000ManufacturingLeased
Carthage, TN 
67,520 sq. ft.
10.98 acres
 Fabrication facility.  Produces precision tubular components and assemblies.
Manufacturing Owned
Valley View, OH 65,400Manufacturing & DistributionLeased
Brighton, MI65,000MachiningLeased
Waynesboro, TN57,000ManufacturingLeased
Middleton, OH55,000ManufacturingOwned
Gordonsville, TN 54,000 sq. ft.(3)Fabrication facility.  Produces precision tubular components and assemblies.
 Manufacturing Leased
Waynesboro, TNBloomfield, CT 
57,000 sq. ft.
5.0 acres
(4)Gas valve plant.  Facility produces brass and aluminum valves and assemblies for the gas appliance industry.
26,900 Manufacturing Leased
North Wales, PACarrolton, TX 9,230ManufacturingLeased
174,000 sq. ft.Jintan City, Jiangsu Province,
18.9 acresChina
 Precision Tube factory.  Facility fabricates copper tube, copper alloy tube, aluminum tube, and fabricated tubular products.
322,580 Manufacturing Owned
Brighton, MI65,000  sq. ft.(3)Machining operation.  Facility machines component parts for supply to automotive industry.
Middletown, OH
55,000 sq. ft.Xinbei District, Changzhou,
2.0 acresChina
 Fabricating facility.  Produces burner systems and manifolds for the gas appliance industry.33,940ManufacturingLeased
Guadalupe, Mexico130,110ManufacturingLeased

(continued)



11


ITEM 2.PROPERTIES
(continued)
LocationApproximate Property SizeDescription
Jintan City, Jiangsu Province, China
322,580 sq. ft.
33.0 acres
(5)Copper tube mill.  Facility includes casting, and finishing equipment to produce engineered copper tube primarily for OEMs.
Xinbei District, Changzhou, China33,940 sq. ft.(3)Refrigeration products plant.  Produces products used in refrigeration applications such as ball valves, line valves, and compressor valves.
Bluffs, IL
70,000 sq. ft.
10 acres
Fabrication facility.  Produces products used in refrigeration applications such as oil separators, accumulators, and heat exchangers.
Guadalupe, MX70,782 sq. ft.(3)Fabrication facility.  Produces tubular components, assemblies, and return bends for refrigeration and HVAC markets.
Guadalupe, MX59,331 sq. ft.(3)Gas valve plant.  Facility produces brass and aluminum valves and assemblies for the gas appliance industry.
Farmers Branch, TX54,000 sq. ft.(3)Fabrication facility.  Produces tubular components, assemblies, and return bends for refrigeration and HVAC markets.
In addition, we own and/or lease other properties used as distribution centers and corporate offices.

(1)  Facility, or some portion thereof, is located on land leased from a local municipality, with an option to purchase at nominal
      cost.

(2)  Facility is leased under a long-term lease agreement, with an option to purchase at nominal cost.

(3)  Facility is leased under an operating lease.

(4)  Facility is leased from a local municipality for a nominal amount.

(5)  Facility is located on land that is under a long-term land use rights agreement.

12

ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company is involved in certain litigation as a result of claims that arose in the ordinary course of business.  Additionally, the Companywe may realize the benefit of certain legal claims and litigation in the future; these gain contingencies are not recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

For a description of material pending legal proceedings, see “Note 8"Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies”Contingencies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, which is incorporated herein by reference.


ITEMITEM 4.
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.


10

PART II

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

Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “MLI.”"MLI."  As of February 20, 2015,19, 2016, the number of holders of record of Mueller’sMueller's common stock was approximately 855.810.  The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales prices as reported by the NYSE and the cash dividends paid per share of common stock.

On February 21, 2014, the Company effected a two-for-one stock split to shareholders of record as of March 14, 2014.  All share and per share information has been retroactively adjusted to reflect the stock split.

 Sales Prices    Sales Prices   
 High  Low  Dividend 
2015      
      
Fourth quarter $33.04  $26.86  $0.075 
Third quarter  35.65   28.94   0.075 
Second quarter  37.18   34.57   0.075 
First quarter  36.47   31.34   0.075 
 High Low Dividend             
2014                   
                   
Fourth quarter $34.39  $27.10  $0.0750  $34.39  $27.10  $0.075 
Third quarter  30.35   27.71   0.0750   30.35   27.71   0.075 
Second quarter  30.99   27.47   0.0750   30.99   27.47   0.075 
First quarter  32.13   27.38   0.0750   32.13   27.38   0.075 
       
2013       
       
Fourth quarter $31.64  $26.98  $0.0625 
Third quarter  29.08   25.17   0.0625 
Second quarter  27.50   24.05   0.0625 
First quarter  27.77   24.48   0.0625 
 
Payment of dividends in the future is dependent upon the Company’sCompany's financial condition, cash flows, capital requirements, earnings, and other factors.



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Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The Company’sCompany's Board of Directors has extended, until October 2015,2016, the authorization to repurchase up to 20 million shares of the Company’sCompany's common stock through open market transactions or through privately negotiated transactions.  The Company has no obligation to purchase any shares and may cancel, suspend, or extend the time period for the purchase of shares at any time.  Any purchases will be funded primarily through existing cash and cash from operations.  The Company may hold any shares purchased in treasury or use a portion of the repurchased shares for its stock-based compensation plans, as well as for other corporate purposes.  From its initial authorization in 1999 through December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company had repurchased approximately 4.7 million shares under this authorization.  Below is a summary of the Company’sCompany's stock repurchases for the quarter ended December 27, 2014.
   (a) (b) (c) (d) 
   Total  Number of Shares Purchased Average Price Paid per Share Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs 
         15,287,060(1)
  September 28 – October 25, 2014 359
(2)
$29.45    
            
  October 26 – November 22, 2014 2,384(2) 32.05    
            
  November 23 – December 27, 2014 579(2) 32.92    
            
 (1)
Shares available to be purchased under the Company’s 20 million share repurchase authorization until October 2015.  The extension of the authorization was announced on October 24, 2014.
 
 (2)
Shares tendered to the Company by holders of stock based awards in payment of purchase price and/or withholding taxes upon exercise.  In addition, includes restricted stock forfeitures.
26, 2015.


  (a)   (b)  (c)  (d)   
  Total Number of Shares Purchased   Average Price Paid per Share  Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs  Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs   
          15,287,060 (1) 
  September 27 – October 24, 2015  1,036 (2)   $31.85           
                      
  October 25 – November 21, 2015  155 (2)    31.53           
                      
  November 22 – December 26, 2015                  
                      
 (1)Shares available to be purchased under the Company's 20 million share repurchase authorization until October 2016. The extension of  the authorization was announced on October 21, 2015.
 
 
 (2)Shares tendered to the Company by holders of stock-based awards in payment of purchase price and/or withholding taxes upon exercise. In addition, includes restricted stock forfeitures. 






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Company Stock Performance

The following graph compares total stockholder return since December 26, 200925, 2010 to the Dow Jones U.S. Total Market Index (Total Market Index) and the Dow Jones U.S. Building Materials & Fixtures Index (Building Materials Index).  Total return values for the Total Market Index, the Building Materials Index and the Company were calculated based on cumulative total return values assuming reinvestment of dividends. 

                                
 
 
 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014  2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 
Mueller Industries, Inc. 100.00 131.64 154.72 200.26 257.35 283.15  100.00 117.53 152.12 195.49 215.09 177.80 
Dow Jones U.S. Total Return Index 100.00 116.65 118.22 137.52 182.86 206.53  100.00 101.34 117.89 156.76 177.06 178.18 
Dow Jones U.S. Building Materials & Fixtures Index 100.00 116.70 120.39 183.24 234.92 259.74  100.00 103.16 157.03 201.31 222.58 254.55 
 

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ITEMITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

(In thousands, except per share data)(In thousands, except per share data)2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 (In thousands, except per share data) 2015    2014    2013    2012    2011   
                                  
For the fiscal year: (1)
For the fiscal year: (1)
          
For the fiscal year: (1)
                    
                                  
 Net sales$2,364,227 $2,158,541 $2,189,938 $2,417,797 $2,059,797  Net sales $2,100,002    $2,364,227    $2,158,541    $2,189,938    $2,417,797   
                                                 
 Operating income 153,996  270,937(3) 126,705(4) 139,802(5) 136,147(6)  Operating income  137,268     153,996     270,937   (5)  126,705   (6)  139,802   (7)
                                                        
 Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc. 101,560
(2)
 172,600  82,395  86,321  86,171  Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.  87,864   (3)  101,560   (4)  172,600       82,395       86,321     
                                                           
 
Diluted earnings per share (8)
 1.79  3.06  1.16(7) 1.13  1.14  
Diluted earnings per share (2)
  1.54       1.79       3.06       1.16   (8)  1.13     
                                                           
 
Cash dividends per share (8)
 0.30  0.25  0.2125  0.20  0.20  
Cash dividends per share (2)
  0.30       0.30       0.25       0.2125       0.20     
                                                           
At year-end:At year-end:               At year-end:                                        
                                                           
 Total assets 1,328,096  1,247,767  1,104,155  1,347,604  1,258,996  Total assets  1,338,801       1,328,096       1,247,767       1,104,155       1,347,604     
                                                           
 Long-term debt 205,250  206,250  207,300  156,476  158,226  Long-term debt  204,250       205,250       206,250       207,300       156,476     
                                                           
                                          
 (1) Includes activity of acquired businesses from the following purchase dates: Great Lakes Copper Ltd., July 31, 2015; Sherwood Valve Products, LLC, June 18, 2015; Turbotec Products, Inc., March 30, 2015; Yorkshire Copper Tube, February 28, 2014; Howell Metal Company, October 17, 2013; and Westermeyer Industries, Inc., August 16, 2012. 
    
 (2) Adjusted retroactively to reflect the two-for-one stock split that occurred on March 14, 2014. 
    
 (3) Includes $15.4 million pre-tax gain from the sale of certain assets, severance charges of $3.4 million and a permanent adjustment to a deferred tax liability of $4.2 million. 
    
 (4) Includes $6.3 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets, reversal of valuation allowance of $5.7 million, and $7.3 million of pre-tax charges related to severance. 
    
 (5) Includes $106.3 million pre-tax gain from settlement of insurance claims, $39.8 million pre-tax gain from the sale of the Company's Schedule 40 pressure plastic fittings business along with the sale of certain other plastic fittings manufacturing assets, and pre-tax impairment charges of $4.3 million primarily related to real property associated with the aforementioned plastics sale transaction. 
    
 (6) Includes deferred recognition of $8.0 million gain from liquidation of LIFO inventory layers, $4.1 million net gain from settlement of litigation, $1.5 million gain from settlement of insurance claims, and severance charges of $3.4 million. 
    
 (7) Includes $10.5 million gain from settlement of litigation. 
    
 (8)Includes the impact of 10.4 million shares repurchased from Leucadia National Corporation in September 2012. 
    
(1)Includes activity of acquired businesses from the following purchase dates:  Yorkshire Copper Tube, February 28, 2014, Howell Metal Company, October 17, 2013, Westermeyer Industries, Inc., August 16, 2012, Tube Forming L.P., December 28, 2010, and Linesets, Inc., August 6, 2010.
(2)Includes $6.3 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets, reversal of valuation allowance of $5.7 million, and $7.3 million of pre-tax charges related to severance.
(3)Includes $106.3 million pre-tax gain from settlement of insurance claims, $39.8 million pre-tax gain from the sale of the Company’s Schedule 40 pressure plastic fittings business along with the sale of certain other plastic fittings manufacturing assets, and pre-tax impairment charges of $4.3 million primarily related to real property associated with the aforementioned plastics sale transaction.
(4)Includes deferred recognition of $8.0 million gain from liquidation of LIFO inventory layers, $4.1 million net gain from settlement of litigation, $1.5 million gain from settlement of insurance claims, and severance charges of $3.4 million.
(5)Includes $10.5 million gain from settlement of litigation.
(6)Includes $22.7 million gain from settlement of insurance claims.
(7)Includes the impact of 10.4 million shares repurchased from Leucadia National Corporation in September 2012.
(8)Adjusted retroactively to reflect the two-for-one stock split that occurred on March 14, 2014.

ITEM 7.7.
MANAGEMENT’SMANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Management’sManagement's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is contained under the caption “Financial Review”"Financial Review" submitted as a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K commencing on page F-2.

 
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ITEMITEM 7A.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk are contained under the caption “Financial Review”"Financial Review" submitted as a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K commencing on page F-2.


ITEM 8.8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Financial Statements required by this item are contained in a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K commencing on page F-15.F-16.


ITEM 9.9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.
 
 
ITEM 9A.9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure information required to be disclosed in Company reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’sSEC's rules and forms.  Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in Company reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’sCompany's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
The Company’sCompany's management, with the participation of the Company’sCompany's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’sCompany's disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act as of December 27, 2014.26, 2015.  Based on that evaluation, the Company’sCompany's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’sCompany's disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 27, 201426, 2015 to ensure that information required to be disclosed in Company reports filed under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’sCompany's principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management’sManagement's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The Company’sCompany's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC, internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’sCompany's principal executive and principal financial officers, and effected by the Company’sCompany'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 accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the  Company’sCompany's assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the issuer are being made only in accordance with authorizations of the Company’sCompany's management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’sCompany's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.  Due to inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Further, because of changes in conditions, effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting may vary over time.
 
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The Company acquired YorkshireTurbotec Products, Inc., Sherwood Valve Products, LLC, and Great Lakes Copper Tube (Yorkshire)Ltd. during February 2014,2015 and has excluded that businessthese businesses from management’smanagement's assessment of internal controls.  The total value of assets of Yorkshirefor these businesses at year-end was $41.4$152.8 million, which represents three11.4 percent of the Company’sCompany's consolidated total assets at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.  Net sales of Yorkshire from the datedates of acquisition represent fourrepresents 6.1 percent of the consolidated net sales of the Company for 2014, and Yorkshire operated at a net loss2015.  Operating income from the date of acquisitions represents 4.3 percent of the consolidated operating income of the Company for the year.2015.  Accordingly, thisthese acquired business isbusinesses are not included in the scope of this report.

The Company’sAs required by Rule 13a-15(c) under the Exchange Act, the Company's management, with the participation of the Company’sCompany's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting as of December 27, 201426, 2015 based on the control criteria established in a report entitled Internal Control—Integrated Framework, (1992(2013 Framework) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  Based on such evaluation, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 27, 2014.26, 2015.
 
Ernst & Young LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’sCompany's financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, has issued an attestation report on the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting, which is included herein.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
There were no changes in the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting during the Company’sCompany's fiscal quarter ended December 27, 2014,26, 2015, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting.
 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Mueller Industries, Inc.

We have audited Mueller Industries, Inc.’s's internal control over financial reporting as of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992(2013 Framework) (the COSO criteria). Mueller Industries, Inc.’s's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’sManagement's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’scompany's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’scompany's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’scompany's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’scompany's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

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

As indicated in the accompanying Management’sManagement's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management’smanagement's assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the internal controls of YorkshireTurbotec Products, Inc., Sherwood Valve Products, LLC, or Great Lakes Copper Tube,Ltd., which isare included in the 20142015 consolidated financial statements of Mueller Industries, Inc. and constituted $41.4$152.8 million and $21.1$106.9 million of total and net assets, respectively, as of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, and $94.4$128.0 million and $5.9 million of net sales and net loss,operating income, respectively, for the year then ended.  Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of Mueller Industries, Inc. also did not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of YorkshireTurbotec Products, Inc., Sherwood Valve Products, LLC, or Great Lakes Copper Tube.Ltd.

In our opinion, Mueller Industries, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Mueller Industries, Inc. as of December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 27, 201426, 2015 and our report dated February 24, 20152016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
 
 
                                                                                    /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

 Memphis, Tennessee 
 February 24, 20152016 
 
1917

ITEM 9B.9B.
OTHER INFORMATION

None.


PART III

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The information required by Item 10 is contained under the captions “Ownership"Ownership of Common Stock by Directors and Executive Officers and Information about Director Nominees,” “Corporate" "Corporate Governance,” “Report" "Report of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors," and “Section"Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Compliance Reporting”Reporting" in the Company’sCompany's Proxy Statement for its 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC on or about March 25, 2015,24, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to its chief executive officer, chief financial officer, and other financial executives.  We have also made the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics available on the Company’sCompany's website at www.muellerindustries.com.

ITEMITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
The information required by Item 11 is contained under the caption “Compensation"Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Summary" "Summary Compensation Table for 2014,” “20142015," "2015 Grants of Plan Based Awards Table,” “Outstanding" "Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 20142015 Year-End,” “2014" "2015 Option Exercises and Stock Vested,” “Potential" "Potential Payments Upon Termination of Employment or Change in Control as of the End of 2014,” “20142015," "2015 Director Compensation,” “Report" "Report of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors on Executive Compensation”Compensation" and “Corporate Governance”"Corporate Governance" in the Company’sCompany's Proxy Statement for its 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC on or about March 25, 2015,24, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
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ITEMITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table discloses information regarding the securities to be issued and the securities remaining available for issuance under the Registrant’sRegistrant's stock-based incentive plans as of December 27, 201426, 2015 (shares in thousands):

 (a) (b) (c) (a) (b) (c) 
Plan category Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants, and rights Weighted average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants, and rights Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants, and rights Weighted average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants, and rights Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) 
          
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders  1,127  $17.38   1,558(1)  1,198  $20.59   1,146 
                   
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders                  
                   
Total  1,127  $17.38   1,558   1,198  $20.59   1,146 
 
(1)Of the 1.6 million securities remaining available for issuance under the equity compensation plans, 1.5 million are available under the Company’s 2009 and 2014 Stock Incentive Plans for issuance of restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, or stock options.  The remaining securities are available for issuance of stock options to the Board of Directors only.

Other information required by Item 12 is contained under the captions “Principal Stockholders”"Principal Stockholders" and “Ownership"Ownership of Common Stock by Directors and Executive Officers and Information about Director Nominees”Nominees" in the Company’sCompany's Proxy Statement for its 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC on or about March 25, 2015,24, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference.


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

The information required by Item 13 is contained under the caption “Corporate Governance”"Corporate Governance" in the Company’sCompany's Proxy Statement for its 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC on or about March 25, 2015,24, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
ITEMITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
       
The information required by Item 14 is contained under the caption “Appointment"Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”Firm" in the Company’sCompany's Proxy Statement for its 20152016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed with the SEC on or about March 25, 2015,24, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
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PART IV


ITEMITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)The following documents are filed as part of this report: 
   
1.Financial Statements: the financial statements, notes, and report of independent registered public accounting firm described in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are contained in a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K commencing on page F-1. 
   
2.Financial Statement Schedule: the financial statement schedule described in Item 8 of this report is contained in a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K commencing on page F-1. 
   
3.Exhibits:  
 3.1Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant dated February 8, 2007 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2007, for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006). 
    
 3.2Amended and Restated By-laws of the Registrant, effective as of November 8, 2013January 15, 2016 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 8, 2013)January 19, 2016). 
    
 4.1Certain instruments with respect to long-term debt of the Registrant have not been filed as Exhibits to this Report since the total amount of securities authorized under any such instruments does not exceed 10 percent of the total assets of the Registrant and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.  The Registrant agrees to furnish a copy of each such instrument upon request of the SEC. 
    
 10.1Amended and Restated Consulting Agreement, dated October 25, 2007, by and between the Registrant and Harvey Karp (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated October 25, 2007). 
    
 10.2Amendment No. 1, dated December 2, 2008, to the Amended and Restated Consulting Agreement, dated October 25, 2007, by and between the Registrant and Harvey Karp (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 24, 2009, for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2008). 
    
 10.3Letter Agreement with Harvey Karp, dated as of May 11, 2011 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated May 16, 2011). 
    
 10.4Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, effective October 30, 2008, by and between the Registrant and Gregory L. Christopher (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated December 26, 2008). 
    
 10.5Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and Gregory L. Christopher, dated February 14, 2013 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 14, 2013). 
    
 10.6Mueller Industries, Inc. 1994 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan, as amended (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.12 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated March 24, 2003, for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2002 and Exhibit 99.6 of the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 31, 2004).
10.7Mueller Industries, Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan Amended and Restated as of February 16, 2006 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2007, for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006). 
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 10.810.7Mueller Industries, Inc. 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference from Appendix I to the Company’sCompany's 2009 Definitive Proxy Statement with respect to the Company’sCompany's 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 26, 2009). 
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INDEX
    
 10.910.8Mueller Industries, Inc. 2014 Stock Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference from Appendix I to the Company’sCompany's 2014 Definitive Proxy Statement with respect to the Company’sCompany's 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014). 
    
 10.1010.9Amendment to the Mueller Industries, Inc. 2002 Stock Option Plan, dated July 11, 2011 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2012, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011).
10.10Amendment to the Mueller Industries, Inc. 2009 Stock Incentive Plan, dated July 11, 2011 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.17 of the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2012, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011). 
    
 10.11Amendment to the Mueller Industries, Inc. 2009 Stock Incentive2011 Annual Bonus Plan dated July 11, 2011 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1710.18 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2012, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011). 
    
 10.12Mueller Industries, Inc. 2011 Annual Bonus Plan (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 28, 2012, for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011).
10.13Summary description of the Registrant’s 2015Registrant's 2016 incentive plan for certain key employees. 
    
 10.1410.13Amended Credit Agreement, dated as of March 7, 2011, among the Registrant (as Borrower) and Bank of America, N.A. (as agent), and certain lenders named therein, following adoption of Amendment No. 2 dated December 11, 2012 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 27, 2013, for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012). 
    
 10.1510.14Amendment No. 1 to Credit Agreement among the Registrant (as borrower), Bank of America, N.A. (as agent), and certain lenders named therein dated August 12, 2011 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, for the Quarterly period ended October 1, 2011, dated October 27, 2011). 
    
 10.1610.15Amendment No. 2 to Credit Agreement among the Registrant (as borrower), Bank of America, N.A. (as agent), and certain lenders named therein dated December 11, 2012  (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K, dated February 27, 2013, for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012). 
    
 10.1710.16ShareMembership Interest Purchase Agreement by and among Mueller Europe Limitedbetween Sherwood Valve Products, Inc. and Travis Perkins PLC,Taylor-Wharton International LLC, dated November 21, 2014as of June 18, 2015 (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant’sRegistrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 24, 2014)June 19, 2015).
10.18Share Purchase Agreement among Great Lakes Copper Inc. and Mueller Copper Tube Products, Inc. dated July 31, 2015.  (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, dated October 21, 2015 for the period ended September 26, 2015).
10.19Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 5, 2015, by and among Tecumseh Products Company, MA Industrial JV LLC and MA Industrial Sub Inc. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 7, 2015). 
    
 21.0Subsidiaries of the Registrant. 
    
 23.0Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. 
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 31.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. 
    
 31.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. 
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 32.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 
    
 32.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 
    
 101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase 
    
 101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase  
    
 101.INSXBRL Instance Document 
    
 101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase  
    
 101.PREXBRL Presentation Linkbase Document 
    
 101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema  
 
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SIGNATURES
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, on February 24, 2015.2016.

MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.

 
/s/ Gregory L. Christopher
 
 
Gregory L. Christopher, Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer), and DirectorChairman of the Board
 

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

Signature
Title
Date
   
/s/ Gregory L. Christopher
    Gregory L. Christopher
Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Chairman of the BoardFebruary 24, 2016
/s/ Gary S. Gladstein
Chairman of the Board, andLead Independent DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
Gary S. Gladstein  
   
/s/ Gregory L. Christopher
Chief Executive OfficerFebruary 24, 2015
Gregory L. Christopher(Principal Executive Officer), and Director
/s/ Paul J. Flaherty
DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
Paul J. Flaherty  
   
/s/ Gennaro J. Fulvio
DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
Gennaro J. Fulvio  
   
/s/ Scott J. Goldman
DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
Scott J. Goldman  
   
/s/ John B. Hansen
DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
John B. Hansen  
   
/s/ Terry Hermanson
DirectorFebruary 24, 20152016
Terry Hermanson  
   

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

 
Signature and Title
Date
   
 
/s/ Jeffrey A. Martin
February 24, 20152016
 Jeffrey A. Martin 
 Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer 
 (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) 
   
 
/s/ Anthony J. SteinriedeRichard W. Corman
February 24, 20152016
 Richard W. CormanAnthony J. Steinriede 
 Vice President – Corporate Controller 


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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  
  
  
  
 
as
  
  
for the years ended December 27, 2014, December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012F- 19
F- 21
  




FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

 
Schedule for the years ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012
  
  
 

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FINANCIAL REVIEW
FINANCIAL REVIEW

The Financial Review section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K consists of the following: Management’sManagement's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition (MD&A), the Consolidated Financial Statements, and Other Financial Information, all of which include information about our significant accounting policies, practices, and the transactions that impact our financial results.  The following MD&A describes the principal factors affecting the results of operations, liquidity and capital resources, contractual cash obligations and the critical accounting estimates of the Company.  The discussion in the Financial Review section should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this Annual Report, particularly “Item"Item 1: Business”Business" and our other detailed discussion of risk factors included in this MD&A.

Overview

Overview
We are a leading manufacturer of plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration,copper, brass, aluminum, and industrialplastic products.  The range of these products is broad:  copper tube and fittings; line sets; brass and copper alloy rod, bar, and shapes; aluminum and brass forgings; aluminum and copper impact extrusions; plastic fittings and valves; refrigeration valves and fittings; fabricated tubular products; and steel nipples.  We also resell imported brass and plastic plumbing valves, malleable iron fittings, faucets and plumbing specialty products.  Mueller’sMueller's operations are located throughout the United States and in Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, and China.

The Company’sCompany's businesses are aggregated into two reportable segments:

·
Plumbing & Refrigeration:  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment is composed of SPD,Standard Products (SPD), Great Lakes Copper Ltd. (Great Lakes), European Operations, and Mexican Operations.  SPD manufactures and sells copper tube, copper and plastic fittings, line sets, and valves in North America and sources products for import distribution in North America.  Great Lakes manufactures copper tube and line sets in Canada and sells its products primarily in the U.S. and Canada. European Operations manufacture copper tube in the United Kingdom, which is sold throughout Europe.  Mexican Operations consist of pipe nipple manufacturing and import distribution businesses including product lines of malleable iron fittings and other plumbing specialties.  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment sells products to wholesalers in the HVAC, plumbing, and refrigeration markets, to distributors to the manufactured housing and recreational vehicle industries, and to building material retailers.

·
OEM:  The OEM segment is composed of IPD, EPD,Industrial Products, (IPD), Engineered Products (EPD), and Mueller-Xingrong,Jiangsu Mueller–Xingrong Copper Industries Limited (Mueller-Xingrong), the Company’sCompany's Chinese joint venture.  The OEM segment manufactures and sells brass and copper alloy rod, bar, and shapes; aluminum and brass forgings; aluminum and copper impact extrusions; refrigeration valves and fittings; fabricated tubular products; and gas valves and assemblies.  Mueller-Xingrong manufactures engineered copper tube primarily for air-conditioning applications; these products are sold primarily to OEMs located in China.  The OEM segment sells its products primarily to original equipment manufacturers, many of which are in the HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, and refrigerationindustrial markets.

New housing starts and commercial construction are important determinants of the Company’sCompany's sales to the HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing markets because the principal end use of a significant portion of our products is in the construction of single and multi-family housing and commercial buildings.  Repairs and remodeling projects are also important drivers of underlying demand for these products.  

Residential construction in 2014 and 2013activity has shown improvement in recent years, but remains at levels below long-term historical averages.  Continued improvement is expected, but may be tempered by continuing low labor participation rates, the pace of household formations, higher interest rates, and tighter lending standards.  Per the U.S. Census Bureau, actual housing starts in the U.S. were 1.1 million in 2015, which compares to 1.0 million in 2014 which compares toand 925 thousand in 2013 and 781 thousand in 2012.  While mortgage2013.  Mortgage rates have risen in 2014 and 2013, they remain at historically low levels, as the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was approximately 3.85 percent in 2015 and 4.17 percent in 2014 and 3.98 percent in 2013.2014.  

F - 2

The private nonresidential construction sector, which includes offices, industrial, health care, and retail projects, began showing modest improvement in 2015, 2014, 2013, and 20122013 after declines in previous years.  According toPer the U.S. Census Bureau, at December 2014, the actual (not seasonally adjusted annual rateadjusted) value of private nonresidential value of construction put in place was $349.0$389.3 billion compared to $331.4 billion at December 2013.  The actual private nonresidential value of construction put in place was $337.02015, $347.7 billion in 2014, $304.9and $312.3 billion in 2013, and $301.4 billion in 2012.  The Company expects2013.  We expect that most of these conditions will continue to gradually improve.

F-2

Profitability of certain of the Company’sCompany's product lines depends upon the “spreads”"spreads" between the cost of raw material and the selling prices of its products.  The open market prices for copper cathode and scrap, for example, influence the selling price of copper tube, a principal product manufactured by the Company.  The Company attemptsWe attempt to minimize the effects on profitability from fluctuations in material costs by passing through these costs to itsour customers.  The Company’sOur earnings and cash flow are dependent upon these spreads that fluctuate based upon market conditions.

Earnings and profitability are also impacted by unit volumes that are subject to market trends, such as substitute products, imports, technologies, and market share.  In itsour core product lines, the Companywe intensively manages itsmanage our pricing structure while attempting to maximize its profitability.  From time-to-time, this practice results in lost sales opportunities and lower volume.  For plumbing systems, plastics are the primary substitute product; these products represent an increasing share of consumption.  U.S. consumption of copper tube is still predominantly supplied by U.S. manufacturers.  For certain air-conditioning and refrigeration applications, aluminum based systems are the primary substitution threat.  The CompanyWe cannot predict the acceptance or the rate of switching that may occur.  In recent years, brass rod consumption in the U.S. has declined due to the outsourcing of many manufactured products from offshore regions.

Results of Operations

Consolidated Results

The following table compares summary operating results for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012:2013:

       Percent Change      Percent Change 
(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012 2014 vs. 2013  2013 vs. 2012   2015 2014 2013 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
                   
Net sales  $2,364,227 $2,158,541 $2,189,938  9.5  (1.4)%  $2,100,002  $2,364,227  $2,158,541   (11.2)%  9.5%
Operating income 153,996 270,937 126,705   (43.2 113.8    137,268   153,996   270,937   (10.9)  (43.2)
Net income 101,560 172,600 82,395 (41.2) 109.5    87,864   101,560   172,600   (13.5)  (41.2)

The following are components of changes in net sales compared to the prior year:

  2015 vs. 2014  2014 vs. 2013  
        
Net selling price in core product lines (9.4)  (3.1)%
Unit sales volume in core product lines   (4.3)   2.1  
Acquisitions & new products   5.8    9.5  
Dispositions (2.6)     
Other   (0.7)   1.0  
          
    (11.2)  9.5 %

The decrease in net sales in 2015 was primarily due to (i) lower net selling prices of $221.5 million in our core product lines, primarily copper tube and brass rod, (ii) lower unit sales volume of $102.3 million in our core product lines, primarily in the OEM segment, and (iii) the absence of sales of $57.5 million recorded by Primaflow, a business we sold during November 2014.  These decreases were offset by $90.5 million of sales recorded by Great Lakes Copper Ltd. (Great Lakes), acquired in July 2015, $20.8 million of sales recorded by Sherwood Valve Products, LLC (Sherwood), acquired in June 2015, and $16.8 million of sales recorded by Turbotec Products, Inc. (Turbotec), acquired in March 2015.

The increase in net sales in 2014 was primarily due to (i) incremental sales of $91.7 million contributed by Yorkshire Copper Tube (Yorkshire), acquired in February 2014, (ii) $109.1 million of sales contributed by Howell Metals Company (Howell), acquired in October 2013, (iii) an increase in unit sales in the Company’sour other core product lines of $49.9 million, and (iv) an increase in net sales of $20.3 million from the Company’sour non-core product lines.  These increases were offset by lower selling prices of $65.4 million in the Company’sour core products.

The decrease in net sales in 2013 was primarily due to lower net selling prices in the Company’s core product lines of $58.6 million and lower unit sales volume in the OEM segment of $12.7 million.  This was partially offset by an increase in unit sales volume due to $14.3 million of sales recorded by Howell, and $11.1 million of sales recorded by Westermeyer, acquired in August 2012.


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Net selling prices generally fluctuate with changes in raw material costs.  Changes in raw material costs are generally passed through to customers by adjustments to selling prices.  The following graph shows the Comex average copper price per pound by quarter for the most recent three-year period:


The following tables compare cost of goods sold and operating expenses as dollar amounts and as a percent of net sales for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012:2013:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Cost of goods sold $2,043,719  $1,862,089  $1,904,463  $1,809,702  $2,043,719  $1,862,089 
Depreciation and amortization  33,735   32,394   31,495   34,608   33,735   32,394 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  131,740   134,914   129,456   130,358   131,740   134,914 
Insurance settlements  (106,332) (1,500)        (106,332)
Gain on sale of assets (6,259) (39,765)    (15,376)  (6,259)  (39,765)
Impairment charges  4,304          4,304 
Litigation settlements        (4,050)
Severance  7,296      3,369   3,442   7,296    
                        
Operating expenses $2,210,231  $1,887,604  $2,063,233  $1,962,734  $2,210,231  $1,887,604 

 Percent of Net Sales  Percent of Net Sales 
 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Cost of goods sold  86.4%  86.3%  87.0%  86.2%  86.4%  86.3%
Depreciation and amortization  1.4   1.5   1.4   1.6   1.4   1.5 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  5.6   6.3   5.9   6.2   5.7   6.1 
Insurance settlements  (4.9) (0.1)        (4.9)
Gain on sale of assets (0.3) (1.8)    (0.7)  (0.3)  (1.8)
Impairment charges  0.2          0.2 
Litigation settlements        (0.2)
Severance  0.3      0.2   0.2   0.3    
                        
Operating expenses  93.4%  87.6%  94.2%  93.5%  93.5%  87.4%

The increasedecrease in cost of goods sold in 20142015 was primarily due to the decrease in the average cost of copper, our principal raw material, and the decrease in sales volume.  The increase in 2014 as compared to 2013 was largely related to the increase in sales volume.  The decrease in 2013 as compared to 2012 was largely related to the decrease in the price of copper, the Company’s principal raw material.  This was offset by the recognition of a gain from LIFO liquidation that resulted in a reduction of approximately $8.0 million to cost of sales in 2012.  Depreciation and amortization increased in 2015 and 2014 as a result of depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets for businesses acquired.  The increase in 2013 was related to an increase in capital spending in 2012 and 2013.  
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Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased slightly in 2015, primarily due to (i) lower employment costs, including incentive compensation, of $5.4 million, (ii) a decrease of $10.2 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses related to the sale of Primaflow, and (iii) a decrease of $1.6 million in agent commissions as a result of lower sales.  These decreases were offset by (i) selling, general, and administrative expenses of $6.6 million associated with businesses acquired in 2015, (ii) higher net periodic pension costs of $5.1 million, and (iii) increased professional fees of $1.6 million related to the upgrade of our ERP system.  In addition, there was $1.9 million of equipment relocation costs and losses on the sale of assets related to the rationalization of Yorkshire in in 2015.  Lastly, during 2014 there was a reduction in accruals related to legal matters of $0.5 million.  The decrease in 2014 primarily aswas a result of a decrease in legal fees of $4.8 million and lower net periodic pension costs of $5.0 million, offset by incremental costs associated with Howell and Yorkshire. The increase in 2013

During 2015, our operating results were positively impacted by a net gain of $15.4 million recorded on the sale of certain assets.  This was offset by $3.4 million of severance charges related to increased legal feesthe rationalization of $3.0 million, increased bad debt expense of $1.0 million, and increased software purchases of $0.7 million.Yorkshire.
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During 2014, ourOur operating results in 2014 were positively impacted by a net gain of $6.3 million recorded for the sale of our plastic pipe manufacturing assets, the land and building in Portage, Michigan, and our United Kingdom based import distribution business.  This was offset by $7.3 million in severance charges related to the reorganizationrationalization of Yorkshire.
  
Operating income increased inDuring 2013, primarily asour operating results were positively impacted by a result of the $106.3 million gain recognized in the settlement of our insurance claim related to the September 2011 fire at the Wynne, Arkansas manufacturing operation.  In addition, we sold certain of our plastic fittings manufacturing assets and recognized a pre-tax gain of $39.8 million, or 41 cents per diluted share after tax, and recognized fixed asset impairment charges of $4.3 million.

During 2012, our operating results were positively impacted byInterest expense increased $1.9 million in 2015 primarily as a net gainresult of $4.1additional costs of $2.3 million recorded upon receipt of payment relateddue to the October 2012 settlement of a lawsuit against Xiamen Lota International Co., Ltd.  We also settled the business interruption portionterms of our insurance claim related to the July 2009 explosion at the copper tube facilityinterest rate swap agreements that became effective in Fulton, Mississippi and recorded a $1.5 million gain.  The gain wasJanuary 2015, offset by $3.4decreased borrowing costs of $0.3 million in severance charges.

Interest expense increasedat Mueller-Xingrong to fund working capital.  The increase of $1.8 million in 2014 duewas related to increased borrowings by MEL and higher borrowing costs at Mueller-Xingrong to fund working capital.  The decrease of $2.9

Other income, net, was $2.2 million in 2013 was related2015 compared to the redemption of the 6% Subordinated Debentures during the second quarter of 2012.  In addition, during 2013 the Company capitalized interest expense related to certain capital projects.  Otherother expense, net, wasof $0.2 million in 2014 and other income, net, wasof $4.5 million in 2013.  The change in 2015 was primarily related to lower postretirement benefit costs of $1.4 million, lower environmental costs of $0.8 million, and higher interest income of $0.5 million.  The income in 2013 resulted primarily from a $3.0 million gain on the sale of a non-operating property.

Income tax expense was $43.4 million in 2015, for an effective tax rate of 32.9 percent.  This rate was lower than what would be computed using the U.S. statutory federal rate primarily attributable to reductions to the Company's deferred tax liabilities of $4.2 million resulting from the acquisition of a foreign subsidiary and the U.S. production activities deduction of $3.5 million.  These reductions were partially offset by state tax expense (net of federal benefit) of $2.7 million and $2.3 million of other adjustments.

Income tax expense was $45.5 million in 2014, for an effective tax rate of 31 percent.  This rate was lower than what would be computed using the U.S. statutory federal rate primarily due to decreases in valuation allowances of $5.7 million; the U.S. production activities deduction benefit of $4.0 million; and the effect of lower foreign tax rates and other foreign adjustments of $1.1 million.  These decreases were partially offset by state tax expense (net of federal benefit) of $3.3 million and $1.2 million of other adjustments.

Income tax expense was $98.1 million in 2013, for an effective rate of 36 percent.  This rate was higher than what would be computed using the U.S. statutory federal rate primarily due to state tax expense, net of federal benefit, of $6.4 million, and the impact of goodwill disposition of $1.8 million.  These increases were partially offset by the U.S. production activities deduction benefit of $4.4 million and the effect of lower foreign tax rates and other foreign adjustments of $1.0 million. 

Income tax expense was $36.7 million in 2012, for an effective rate of 30 percent.  This rate was lower than what would be computed using the U.S. statutory federal rate primarily due to the U.S. production activities deduction benefit of $3.0 million, effect of lower foreign tax rates and other foreign adjustments of $2.6 million, and reductions in tax contingencies of $3.2 million.  These decreases were partially offset by state tax expense, net of federal benefit, of $3.2 million.
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Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment

The following table compares summary operating results for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 20122013 for the businesses comprising our Plumbing & Refrigeration segment:

       Percent Change     Percent Change 
(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012 2014 vs. 2013  2013 vs. 2012  2015 2014 2013 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
                   
Net sales  $1,416,701 $1,225,306 $1,238,230  15.6  (1.0)%  $1,260,273  $1,416,701  $1,225,306   (11.0)%  15.6%
Operating income 93,230 219,146 87,014   (57.5 151.9    90,072   93,230   219,146   (3.4)  (57.5)

The following are components of changes in net sales compared to the prior year:

  2015 vs. 2014  2014 vs. 2013  
        
Net selling price in core product lines (10.1)  (2.8)%
Unit sales volume in core product lines   (2.3)   (0.1) 
Acquisitions & new products   6.4    17.0  
Dispositions (4.4)     
Other   (0.6)   1.5  
          
    (11.0)%  15.6 %

The decrease in net sales during 2015 was primarily due to (i) lower net selling prices of $142.2 million in the segment's core product lines, primarily copper tube, (ii) the absence of sales of $57.5 million recorded by Primaflow, and (iii) lower unit sales volume of $32.7 million in the segment's core product lines.  These decreases were offset by $90.5 million of sales recorded by Great Lakes.

The increase in net sales in 2014 was primarily due to (i) incremental sales of $91.7 million contributed by Yorkshire, (ii) $109.1 million of sales contributed by Howell, and (iii) an increase in net sales of $23.2 million from the segment’ssegment's non-core product lines.  The decrease in net sales in 2013 was primarily due to lower net selling prices in the segment’s core product lines of $38.7 million.  This was partially offset by an increase in unit sales volume due to $14.3 million of sales recorded by Howell and $12.4 million in the segment’s other core product lines.

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The following tables compare cost of goods sold and operating expenses as dollar amounts and as a percent of net sales for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012:2013:

(In thousands) 2014  2013  2012 
             
Cost of goods sold $1,215,282  $1,043,059  $1,060,755 
Depreciation and amortization  19,613   17,117   16,513 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  87,539   85,471   75,448 
Insurance settlements     (103,895)  (1,500)
Gain on sale of assets  (6,259)  (39,765)   
Impairment charges     4,173    
Severance  7,296       
             
Operating expenses $1,323,471  $1,006,160  $1,151,216 

 Percent of Net Sales 
 2014 2013 2012 
(In thousands) 2015  2014  2013 
             
Cost of goods sold  85.8%  85.1%  85.7% $1,082,493  $1,215,282  $1,043,059 
Depreciation and amortization  1.4   1.4   1.3   19,237   19,613   17,117 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  6.2   7.0   6.1   80,405   87,539   85,471 
Insurance settlements  (8.5) (0.1)        (103,895)
Gain on sale of assets (0.4) (3.2)    (15,376)  (6,259)  (39,765)
Impairment charges  0.3          4,173 
Severance  0.5         3,442   7,296    
                        
Operating expenses  93.5%  82.1%  93.0% $1,170,201  $1,323,471  $1,006,160 




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  Percent of Net Sales 
  2015  2014  2013 
             
Cost of goods sold  85.9%  85.8%  85.1%
Depreciation and amortization  1.5   1.4   1.4 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  6.4   6.2   7.0 
Insurance settlements        (8.5)
Gain on sale of assets  (1.2)  (0.4)  (3.2
Impairment charges        0.3 
Severance  0.3   0.4    
             
Operating expenses  92.9%  93.4%  82.1%

The increasedecrease in cost of goods sold in 2015 was primarily due to the decrease in the average cost of copper.  The increase in 2014 was primarily due to the increase in net sales while the decrease in 2013 was largely related to the decrease in the price of copper, the Company’s principal raw material.  The decrease in 2013 was offset by the recognition of a gain from LIFO liquidation that resulted in a reduction of approximately $8.0 million to cost of sales in 2012.acquisitions.  Depreciation and amortization increasedfor 2015 was consistent with the expense recorded for 2014.  The increase in 2014 as a result ofwas related to depreciation and amortization of businesses acquired.  The increase in 2013 was related to an increase in capital spending in 2012 and 2013.  

Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased in 2015, primarily due to (i) a decrease of $10.2 million in selling, general, and administrative expenses related to the sale of Primaflow, (ii) lower employment costs, including incentive compensation, of $3.3 million, and (iii) a decrease of $1.5 million in agent commissions as a result of lower sales.  These decreases were offset by (i) selling, general, and administrative expenses of $3.6 million associated with Great Lakes, (ii) increased professional fees of $1.2 million related to the upgrade of our ERP system, and (iii) higher net periodic pension costs of $1.7 million.  In addition, there was $1.9 million of equipment relocation costs and losses on the sale of assets related to the rationalization of Yorkshire.  Lastly, during 2014 there was a reduction in accruals related to legal matters of $0.5 million.  The increase in 2014 was primarily as a result of higher employment costs, including incentive compensation, of $2.8 million and incremental costs associated with Howell and Yorkshire.  This was offset by a reduction in expense related to legal matters of $3.0 million. The increase in 2013

During 2015, our operating results were positively impacted by a net gain of $15.4 million recorded on the sale of certain assets.  This was dueoffset by $3.4 million of severance charges related to higher employment costs, including incentive compensation,the rationalization of $5.4 million, an increase in legal fees of $1.3 million, and an increase in bad debt expense of $1.0 million.Yorkshire.

During 2014,Our operating results in 2014 were positively impacted by a net gain of $6.3 million recorded for the sale of our plastic pipe manufacturing assets, the land and building in Portage, Michigan, and our United Kingdom based import distribution business.  This was offset by $7.3 million in severance charges related to the reorganizationrationalization of Yorkshire.
  
Operating income increased inDuring 2013, primarily asour operating results were positively impacted by a result of the $103.9$106.3 million gain recognized in the settlement of our insurance claim related to the September 2011 fire at the Wynne, Arkansas manufacturing operation.  In addition, we sold certain of our plastic fittings manufacturing assets and recognized a pre-tax gain of $39.8 million, or 41 cents per diluted share after tax, and recognized fixed asset impairment charges of $4.2 million.$4.3 million.

In 2012, we settled the business interruption portion of our insurance claim related to the July 2009 explosion at our copper tube facility in Fulton, Mississippi and recorded a $1.5 million gain.
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OEM Segment

The following table compares summary operating results for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 20122013 for the businesses comprising our OEM segment:

       Percent Change     Percent Change 
(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012 2014 vs. 2013  2013 vs. 2012  2015 2014 2013 2015 vs. 2014 2014 vs. 2013 
                   
Net sales  $959,914 $947,784 $974,606  1.3  (2.8)%  $849,538  $959,914  $947,784   (11.5)%  1.3%
Operating income 85,714 76,631 67,087   11.9  14.2    72,648   85,714   76,631   (15.2)  11.9 


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The following are components of changes in net sales compared to the prior year:

  2015 vs. 2014  2014 vs. 2013  
        
Net selling price in core product lines (8.3)%  (3.3)%
Unit sales volume in core product lines   (7.3)   4.9  
Acquisitions & new products   4.9      
Other   (0.8)   (0.3) 
          
    (11.5)  1.3 %

The decrease in net sales in 2015 was primarily due to lower net selling prices of $79.3 million in the segment's core product lines, primarily brass rod, forgings, and commercial tube, and lower unit sales volume of $69.6 million in the segment's core product lines.  These decreases were offset by $16.8 million of sales recorded by Turbotec and $20.8 million of sales recorded by Sherwood.

The increase in net sales in 2014 was primarily due to an increase in unit sales volume of $46.2 million, offset by a decrease of $31.4 million due to lower net selling prices in the segment’ssegment's core product lines of brass rod, forgings, and commercial tube.  The decrease in net sales in 2013 was primarily due to lower net selling prices of $18.6 million and a decrease in unit sales volume of $12.7 million in the segment’s core product lines.  This was partially offset by an increase in unit sales volume due to $11.1 million of sales recorded by Westermeyer.

The following tables compare cost of goods sold and operating expenses as dollar amounts and as a percent of net sales for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012:2013:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Cost of goods sold $840,823 $833,518 $866,404  $736,878  $840,823  $833,518 
Depreciation and amortization  11,919   13,025   13,435   13,535   11,919   13,025 
Selling, general, and administrative expense 21,458   24,479   27,680   26,477   21,458   24,479 
Impairment charges     131            131 
                        
Operating expenses $874,200  $871,153  $907,519  $776,890  $874,200  $871,153 

 Percent of Net Sales  Percent of Net Sales 
 2014 2013 2012  2015 2014 2013 
              
Cost of goods sold  87.6%  87.9%  88.9%  86.7%  87.6%  87.9%
Depreciation and amortization  1.2   1.4   1.4   1.6   1.2   1.4 
Selling, general, and administrative expense 2.2   2.6   2.8  3.1   2.3   2.6 
Impairment charges                  
                        
Operating expenses  91.0%  91.9%  93.1%  91.4%  91.1%  91.9%

The increasedecrease in cost of goods sold in 20142015 and the decreaseincrease in 20132014 were related to factors consistent with those noted regarding changes in net sales.  Depreciation and amortization decreasedincreased in 2014 and 20132015 as a result of depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets for businesses acquired.  The decrease in 2014 was a result of several fixed assets becoming fully depreciated.  Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreasedincreased in 20142015 primarily as a result of higher net periodic pension costs of $3.2 million, as well as additional selling, general, and administrative expenses of $3.0 million for Turbotec and Sherwood.  This was offset by lower employment costs, including incentive compensation, of $0.8 million.  The decrease in 2014 was due to lower net periodic pension costs of $3.5 million.  The decrease in 2013 was due to lower employment costs,million. including incentive compensation, of $1.0 million and losses on fixed asset impairments recorded in 2012.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following table presents selected financial information and statistics for 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012:2013:

(In thousands) 2014  2013  2012 
             
Cash and cash equivalents $352,134  $311,800  $198,934 
Property, plant, and equipment, net  245,910   244,457   233,263 
Total debt  241,444   235,333   234,870 
Working capital, net of cash and current debt  387,204   372,744   317,134 
             
Cash provided by operating activities  90,605   128,513   108,297 
Cash used in investing activities  (38,424)  (2,985)  (16,376)
Cash used in financing activities  (10,551)  (13,643)  (408,648)

Management believes that cash provided by operations, funds available under the credit agreement, and cash on hand of $352.1 million will be adequate to meet the Company’s normal future capital expenditure and operational needs.  Our current ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities) was 4.0 to 1 as of December 27, 2014.
(In thousands) 2015  2014  2013 
       
Cash and cash equivalents $274,844  $352,134  $311,800 
Property, plant, and equipment, net  280,224   245,910   244,457 
Total debt  216,010   241,444   235,333 
Working capital, net of cash and current debt  327,888   387,204   372,744 
             
Cash provided by operating activities  159,609   90,605   128,513 
Cash used in investing activities  (190,807)  (38,424)  (2,985)
Cash used in financing activities  (41,258)  (10,551)  (13,643)

As of December 27, 2014, $91.6 million of our cash and cash equivalents were held by foreign subsidiaries.  The Company expects to repatriate $2.2 million of this cash and has accrued deferred tax on these earnings.  All other earnings of the foreign subsidiaries are considered to be permanently reinvested, and it is not practicable to compute the potential deferred tax liability associated with these undistributed foreign earnings.  The Company believes that cash held domestically, funds available through the credit agreement, and cash generated from U.S. based operations will be adequate to meet the future needs of the U.S. based operations.

The Company has significant environmental remediation obligations expected to occur over future years.  Approximately $2.2 million was spent during 2014 for environmental matters.  As of December 27, 2014, the Company expects to spend $0.7 million in 2015, $0.8 million in 2016, $0.7 million in 2017, $0.7 million in 2018, $0.8 million in 2019, and $9.4 million thereafter for ongoing projects.  The timing of a potential payment for a $9.5 million settlement offer related to the Southeast Kansas Sites has not yet been determined.  

Cash used to fund pension and other postretirement benefit obligations was $4.4 million in 2014 and $2.8 million in 2013.  

Our Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of 7.5 cents per share for each quarter of fiscal 2014 and 6.25 cents per share on our common stock for each fiscal quarter of 2013.  Payment of dividends in the future is dependent upon the Company’s financial condition, cash flows, capital requirements, and other factors.

Fluctuations in the cost of copper and other raw materials affect the Company’s liquidity.  Changes in material costs directly impact components of working capital, primarily inventories and accounts receivable.  The price of copper has fluctuated significantly and averaged approximately $3.12 in 2014, $3.34 in 2013, and $3.61 in 2012.

Cash Provided by Operating Activities

During 2015, cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to consolidated net income of $88.4 million, depreciation and amortization of $34.6 million, a decrease in receivables of $51.7 million, and a decrease in inventories of $41.1 million.  These cash increases were offset by a decrease in current liabilities of $54.2 million.  These changes were primarily due to decreases in the price of copper and an overall decrease in working capital needs.

During 2014, cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to consolidated net income of $102.5 million and depreciation and amortization of $34.1 million.  These cash increases were offset by increased receivables of $21.4 million, an increase in other assets of $23.7 million, and a decrease in other liabilities of $2.2 million.  These changes were primarily due to increased sales volume in certain businesses and additional working capital needs of acquired businesses.

During 2013, the primary components of cash provided by operating activities were consolidated net income of $173.3 million, partially offset by the gain related to the settlement of the insurance claim for the September 2011 fire in Wynne, Arkansas of $106.3 million and the $39.8 million gain on the sale of the plastic fittings manufacturing assets. There were also increases due to the non-capital related insurance proceeds of $32.4 million, changes in working capital, and non-cash adjustments primarily consisting of depreciation and amortization of $30.9 million and deferred income taxes of $19.2 million.  Major changes in working capital included a $19.4 million decrease in trade accounts receivable and a $14.1 million decrease in current liabilities.  Changes in the components of working capital are heavily driven by the changes in raw material prices, primarily copper.

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Cash Used in Investing Activities

The major components of net cash used in investing activities in 2015 included $105.9 million for the acquisition of Turbotec, Sherwood, and Great Lakes, $65.9 million for our investment in MA Industrial JV LLC, the joint venture that acquired Tecumseh Products Company, and capital expenditures of $28.8 million. These cash decreases were offset by $5.5 million in proceeds from the sale of certain assets and net withdrawals from restricted cash balances of $4.3 million.

The major components of net cash used in investing activities in 2014 included $30.1 million for the acquisition of Yorkshire, capital expenditures of $39.2 million, and deposits into restricted cash of $2.9 million.  These decreases were partially offset by $33.8 million proceeds from the sales of assets.

The major components ofCash Used in Financing Activities

For 2015, net cash used in investingfinancing activities in 2013 included $55.3 million for the acquisitionconsisted primarily of Howell and $41.3$23.6 million used for capital expenditures.  These decreases were partially offsetthe repayment of debt by $65.1Mueller-Xingrong and $16.9 million used for proceeds frompayment of regular quarterly dividends to stockholders of the sale of assets, including certain plastic fittings manufacturing assets, and $29.9 million for insurance proceeds for property and equipment related to the fire at our Wynne, Arkansas manufacturing operation.

Cash Used in Financing ActivitiesCompany.

For 2014, net cash used in financing activities consisted primarily of $16.8 million for payment of regular quarterly dividends to stockholders of the Company, offset by $7.3 million received for the issuance of debt by Mueller-Xingrong.  

For 2013, netLiquidity and Outlook

Management believes that cash used in financing activitiesprovided by operations, funds available under the credit agreement, and cash and cash equivalents on hand, which totaled $13.6$274.8 million which consisted primarilyat December 26, 2015, will be adequate to meet our liquidity needs, including working capital, capital expenditures, and debt payment obligations.  Our current ratio was 3.8 to 1 as of $13.9December 26, 2015.

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As of December 26, 2015, $79.4 million for payment of regular quarterly dividendsour cash and cash equivalents were held by foreign subsidiaries.  We expect to stockholdersrepatriate $2.5 million of this cash and have accrued deferred tax on these earnings.  All other earnings of the Company.  
foreign subsidiaries are considered to be permanently reinvested, and it is not practicable to compute the potential deferred tax liability associated with these undistributed foreign earnings.  We believe that cash held domestically, funds available through the credit agreement, and cash generated from U.S. based operations will be adequate to meet the future needs of our U.S. based operations.

Property, Plant,Fluctuations in the cost of copper and Equipment, netother raw materials affect the Company's liquidity.  Changes in material costs directly impact components of working capital, primarily inventories and accounts receivable.  The price of copper has fluctuated significantly and averaged approximately $2.51 in 2015, $3.12 in 2014, and $3.34 in 2013.

We have significant environmental remediation obligations which we expect to pay over future years.  Approximately $1.1 million was spent during 2015 for environmental matters.  As of December 26, 2015, we expect to spend $0.6 million in 2016, $0.6 million in 2017, $0.6 million in 2018, $0.7 million in 2019, $0.7 million in 2020, and $18.5 million thereafter for ongoing projects.  

Cash used to fund pension and other postretirement benefit obligations was $2.6 million in 2015 and $4.4 million in 2014.  For 2016, we anticipate making contributions of approximately $2.7 million to these plans.

The Company’sCompany declared a regular quarterly dividend of 7.5 cents per share for each quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, and 6.25 cents per share on our common stock for each fiscal quarter of 2013.  Payment of dividends in the future is dependent upon our financial condition, cash flows, capital requirements, and other factors.

Capital Expenditures

During 2015 our capital expenditures were $39.2$28.8 million during 2014 and related primarily to upgrading equipment and implementing new manufacturing technologies in our copper tube and brass rod mills.  We anticipate investing approximately $35 million to $40$30.0 million for capital expenditures during 2015.in 2016.

Long-Term Debt
Effective May 29, 2014, the Company elected to modify itsThe Company's credit agreement (the Credit Agreement) entered into on March 7, 2011 to reduce theprovides for an unsecured $350.0$200.0 million revolving credit facility (the Revolving Credit Facility) to $200.0 million.  The Credit Agreement also provides forand a $200.0 million Term Loan Facility, both of which together with the Revolving Credit Facility, both mature on December 11, 2017.  The Revolving Credit Facility backed approximately $10.5$8.8 million in letters of credit at the end of 2014.2015.  

Additionally, MEL’s credit agreement (the Invoice Facility, described in Note 7 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements) has a total borrowing capacity of £40.0 million, or approximately $62.2 million.  The Invoice Facility has an initial term of two years.  Borrowings outstanding under the Invoice Facility are secured by MEL’s trade account receivables denominated in British pounds.  MEL did not have any borrowings outstanding under the Invoice Facility at December 27, 2014.

On September 23, 2013, Mueller-Xingrong entered into a secured revolving credit facility (the JV Credit Agreement), which matured on September 24, 2014.  At the maturity date, individual draws on the JV Credit Agreement had maturity dates ranging up to nine months.  Borrowings under the JV Credit Agreement bear an interest rate at the latest base-lending rate published by the People’s Bank of China, which was 5.6 percent at December 27, 2014.  On February 2, 2015, Mueller-Xingrong entered into a new secured revolving credit agreement with a total borrowing capacity of RMB 230 million (or approximately $37.1$36.0 million).  In addition, Mueller-Xingrong occasionally finances working capital through various accounts receivable and bank draft discount arrangements.  Total borrowings at Mueller-Xingrong were $35.2$10.8 million at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.

As of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company’sCompany's total debt was $241.4$216.0 million or 23.320.1 percent of its total capitalization.

Covenants contained in the Company’sCompany's financing obligations require, among other things, the maintenance of minimum levels of tangible net worth and the satisfaction of certain minimum financial ratios.  As of December 27, 2014, the Company was26, 2015, we were in compliance with all of itsour debt covenants.

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Share Repurchase Program
The Company’sCompany's Board of Directors has extended, until October 2015,2016, its authorization to repurchase up to 20 million shares of the Company’sCompany's common stock through open market transactions or through privately negotiated transactions.  The Company has no obligation to repurchase any shares and may cancel, suspend, or extend the time period for the repurchase of shares at any time.  Any repurchases will be funded primarily through existing cash and cash from operations.  The Company may hold any shares repurchased in treasury or use a portion of the repurchased shares for stock-based compensation plans, as well as for other corporate purposes.  From its initial authorization in 1999 through December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company had repurchased approximately 4.7 million shares under this authorization.  
 

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Contractual Cash Obligations

The following table presents payments due by the Company under contractual obligations with minimum firm commitments as of December 27, 2014:26, 2015:


   Payments Due by Year 
(In millions) Total  2016   2017-2018   2019-2020  Thereafter 
              
Total debt  $216.0  $11.8  $202.0  $2.0  $0.2 
Consulting agreement (1)
   1.3   0.7   0.6       
Operating leases   28.8   7.8   10.4   3.7   6.9 
Heavy machinery and equipment commitments   6.9   6.9          
Purchase commitments (2)
   560.6   560.4   0.1   0.1    
Interest payments (3)
   11.1   5.5   5.5   0.1    
                     
Total contractual cash obligations  $824.7  $593.1  $218.6  $5.9  $7.1 
                     
     Payments Due by Year 
 (In millions)Total  2015  2016-2017  2018-2019  Thereafter 
Deb              
Total debt$241.4  $36.2  $202.0  $2.0  $1.2 
Consulting agreement (1)
 2.7   1.3   1.4       
Operating leases 15.3   6.2   6.6   2.5    
Heavy machinery and equipment commitments 1.5   1.5          
Purchase commitments (2)
 603.7   603.7          
Interest payments (3)
 16.6   5.5   11.0   0.1    
                     
Total contractual cash obligations$881.2  $654.4  $221.0  $4.6  $1.2 
                     
   
(1) See Note 8 to Consolidated Financial Statements. 
   
(2) The Company has contractual supply commitments for raw materials totaling $565.2 million at year-end prices; these contracts contain variable pricing based on Comex and the London Metals Exchange.  These commitments are for purchases of raw materials that are expected to be consumed in the ordinary course of business. 
   
(3) These payments represent interest on variable rate debt based on rates in effect at December 27, 2014.  The Company has entered into an interest rate swap, effective January 12, 2015, which will fix the interest rate associated with the majority of its variable rate debt. 
(1)See Note 9 to Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)The Company has contractual supply commitments for raw materials totaling $529.9 million at year-end prices; these contracts contain variable pricing based on Comex and the London Metals Exchange. These commitments are for purchases of raw materials that are expected to be consumed in the ordinary course of business.
(3)These payments represent interest on variable rate debt based on rates in effect at December 26, 2015. The Company entered into an interest rate swap, effective January 12, 2015, which fixed the interest rate associated with the majority of its variable rate debt.

The above obligations will be satisfied with existing cash, funds available under the credit agreement, and cash generated by operations.  The Company has no off-balance sheet financing arrangements except for the operating leases identified above.above.

Market Risks

The Company is exposed to market risks from changes in raw material and energy costs, interest rates, and foreign currency exchange rates.  To reduce such risks, the Company may periodically use financial instruments.  Hedging transactions are authorized and executed pursuant to policies and procedures.  Further, the Company does not buy or sell financial instruments for trading purposes.  A discussion of the Company’sCompany's accounting for derivative instruments and hedging activities is included in “Note"Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Cost and Availability of Raw Materials and Energy

Raw materials, primarily copper and brass, represent the largest component of the Company’sCompany's variable costs of production.  The cost of these materials is subject to global market fluctuations caused by factors beyond our control.  Significant increases in the cost of metal, to the extent not reflected in prices for our finished products, or the lack of availability could materially and adversely affect the Company’sour business, results of operations and financial condition.

The Company occasionally enters into forward fixed-price arrangements with certain customers.  We may utilize futures contracts to hedge risks associated with these forward fixed-price arrangements.  We may also utilize futures contracts to manage price risk associated with inventory.  Depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the futures contracts will either be offset against the change in fair value of the inventory through earnings or recognized as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) and reflected in earnings upon the sale of inventory.  Periodic value fluctuations of the contracts generally offset the value fluctuations of the underlying fixed-price transactions or inventory.  At year-end, the Companywe held open futures contracts to purchase approximately $23.7$33.9 million of copper over the next 12 months related to fixed-price sales orders and to sell approximately $1.6$13.6 million of copper over the next three months related to copper inventory.
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We may enter into futures contracts or forward fixed-price arrangements with certain vendors to manage price risk associated with natural gas purchases.  The effective portion of gains and losses with respect to futures positions are deferred in equity as a component of AOCI and reflected in earnings upon consumption of natural gas.  Periodic value fluctuations of the futures contracts generally offset the value fluctuations of the underlying natural gas prices.  There were no open futures contracts to purchase natural gas at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.

Interest Rates

The Company had variable-rate debt outstanding of $216.0 million at December 26, 2015 and $241.4 million at December 27, 2014 and $235.3 million at December 28, 2013.2014.  At these borrowing levels, a hypothetical 10 percent increase in interest rates would have had an insignificant unfavorable impact on the Company’sour pre-tax earnings and cash flows.  The primary interest rate exposures on floating-rate debt are based on LIBOR and the base-lending rate published by the People’sPeople's Bank of China, and the base-lending rate published by HSBC.China.  There was no fixed-rate debt outstanding as of December 27, 201426, 2015 or December 28, 2013.27, 2014.

Included in the variable-rate debt outstanding is the Company's $200.0 million Term Loan Facility which bears interest based on LIBOR.  We have reduced our exposure to increases in LIBOR by entering into interest rate swap contracts.  These contracts have been designated as cash flow hedges.  The fair value of these contracts has been recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the related gains and losses on the contracts are deferred in stockholders’stockholders' equity as a component of AOCI.  Deferred gains or losses on the contracts will be recognized in interest expense in the period in which the related interest payment being hedged is expensed.  The interest rate swap agreement hashad an effective date of January 12, 2015.


Foreign Currency Exchange Rates

Foreign currency exposures arising from transactions include firm commitments and anticipated transactions denominated in a currency other than an entity’sentity's functional currency.  The Company and its subsidiaries generally enter into transactions denominated in their respective functional currencies.  We may utilize certain futures or forward contracts with financial institutions to hedge foreign currency transactional exposures.  Gains and losses with respect to these positions are deferred in equity as a component of AOCI and reflected in earnings upon collection of receivables or payment of commitments.  At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company had open forward contracts with a financial institution to sell approximately 0.6 million Canadian dollars, 5.11.5 million euros, 25.88.6 million Swedish kronor, and 6.83.5 million Norwegian kroner through December 2015.March 2016.  It also held open futures contracts to buy approximately 1.54.8 million euros through March 2015.November 2016.
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The Company’sCompany's primary foreign currency exposure arises from foreign-denominated revenues and profits and their translation into U.S. dollars.  The primary currencies to which we are exposed include the Canadian dollar, the British pound sterling, the euro, the Mexican peso, and the Chinese renminbi.  The Company generally views as long-term its investments in foreign subsidiaries with a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar.dollar as long-term.  As a result, we generally do not hedge these net investments.  The net investment in foreign subsidiaries translated into U.S. dollars using the year-end exchange rates was $249.5 million at December 26, 2015 and $185.6 million at December 27, 2014 and $174.8 million at December 28, 2013.2014.  The potential loss in value of the Company’sCompany's net investment in foreign subsidiaries resulting from a hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in quoted foreign currency exchange rates at December 26, 2015 and December 27, 2014 and December 28, 2013 amounted to $18.6$25.0 million and $17.5$18.6 million, respectively.  This change would be reflected in the foreign currency translation component of AOCI in the equity section of our Consolidated Balance Sheets until the foreign subsidiaries are sold or otherwise disposed.

The Company hasWe have significant investments in foreign operations whose functional currency is the British pound sterling, the Mexican peso, and the Mexican peso.Canadian dollar.  During 2014,2015, the value of the British pound decreased approximately five percent, the Mexican peso decreased approximately 1115 percent, and the British poundCanadian dollar decreased approximately six16 percent relative to the U.S. dollar, respectively.dollar.  The resulting foreign currency translation losses were recorded as a component of AOCI.
 

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The Company’sCompany's accounting policies are more fully described in "Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are preparedStatements.  As disclosed in accordanceNote 1, the preparation of financial statements in conformity with general accepted accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.  Application of these principlesStates requires the Companymanagement to make estimates and assumptions and judgmentsabout future events that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements.financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.  Management believes the following discussion addresses our most complex and sensitive judgments, because of their significance to the Consolidated Financial Statements, result primarily from the need to make estimates about the effects of matterscritical accounting policies, which are inherently uncertain.  The accounting policies and estimatesthose that are most criticalimportant to aid in understandingthe portrayal of the Company's financial condition and evaluating the results of operations and financial position of the Company include the following:require management's most difficult, subjective, and complex judgments.

Inventory Valuation Reserves

The Company’sOur inventories are valued at the lower-of-cost-or-market.  The material component of its U.S. copper tube and copper fittings inventories is valued on a last-in, first-out (LIFO) basis.  Other manufactured inventories, including the non-material components of U.S. copper tube and copper fittings, are valued on a first-in, first-out (FIFO) basis.  Certain inventories purchased for resale are valued on an average cost basis.  Elements of cost in finished goods inventory in addition to the cost of material include depreciation, amortization, utilities, consumable production supplies, maintenance, production wages, and transportation costs.
The market price of copper cathode and scrap are subject to volatility.  During periods when open market prices decline below net realizable value, the Company may need to provide an allowance to reduce the carrying value of its inventory.  In addition, certain items in inventory may be considered excess or obsolete and, as such, the Companywe may establish an allowance to reduce the carrying value of those items to their net realizable value.  Changes in these estimates related to the value of inventory, if any, may result in a materially adverse impact on our reported financial position or results of operations.  The Company recognizes the impact of any changes in estimates, assumptions, and judgments in income in the period in which it isthey are determined.
 
As of December 26, 2015 and December 27, 2014, our inventory valuation reserves were $6.2 million and $5.2 million, respectively. The expense recognized in each of these periods was immaterial to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Impairment of Goodwill

Goodwill represents cost inAs of December 26, 2015, we had $120.3 million of recorded goodwill from our business acquisitions, representing the excess of the purchase price over the fair values assigned tovalue of the underlying net assets of acquired businesses.  we have acquired.  During 2015 we recorded $21.2 million in additional goodwill associated with our Great Lakes and Turbotec acquisitions.
Goodwill is subject to impairment testing, which is performed by the Companyannually as of the first day of the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, unless circumstances dictate more frequent testing.  For testing purposes,indicate the Company uses componentsneed to accelerate the timing of itsthe tests.  These circumstances include a significant change in the business climate, operating segments; componentsperformance indicators, competition, or sale or disposition of a segment having similar economic characteristics are combined.  The annualsignificant portion of one of our businesses.  In our evaluation of goodwill impairment, testwe perform a qualitative assessment at the reporting unit level that requires management judgment and the use of estimates to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount.  If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, we proceed to a two-step process.process to test goodwill for impairment.  The first step is to compare the estimation of fair value of the reporting units that have goodwill.unit to its carrying value (including attributable goodwill).  If this estimateprocess indicates that impairment potentially exists, the fair value is less than the carrying value, a second step of impairment testing is performed.  Step two, usedperformed to measure the potential amount of goodwill impairment loss, compares the implied fair value of goodwill to the carrying value.loss.  In step two, the Company is required towe allocate the fair value of eachthe reporting unit as determined in step one to its assets and liabilities as if it had just been acquired in a business combination and the purchase price was equivalent to the fair value of the reporting unit’sunit.  The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amount assigned to its assets and liabilities including unrecognized intangible assets and corporate allocation where applicable, in a hypothetical purchase price allocationis referred to as if the reporting unit had been purchased on that date.  If theimplied fair value of goodwill.  The implied fair value of goodwill is then compared to the actual carrying value of goodwill.  If the implied fair value is less than the carrying value, we would be required to recognize an impairment chargeloss for that excess.
We identify reporting units by evaluating components of our operating segments and combining those components with similar economic characteristics.  Reporting units with significant recorded goodwill include SPD, Great Lakes, European Operations, Westermeyer (reported in the EPD operating segment), and Turbotec, (reported in the EPD operating segment).
The fair value of each reporting unit is recorded.  Inputs to that model include various estimates, including cash flow projections and assumptions.  Someestimated using a combination of the inputs are highly subjectiveincome and are affectedmarket approaches, incorporating market participant considerations and management's assumptions on revenue growth rates, operating margins, discount rates and expected capital expenditures. Estimates used by changesmanagement can significantly affect the outcome of the impairment test.  Changes in business conditionsforecasted operating results and other factors.  Changes in any of the inputsassumptions could have an effect on future tests and result in material impairment charges.materially affect these estimates.

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TableINDEX
We evaluated each reporting unit during the fourth quarters of Contents
2015 and 2014, as applicable. The Company has three reporting units with goodwill.  Twoestimated fair value of each of these reporting units are includedexceeded its carrying values in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment,2015 and one is included in the OEM segment.
2014, and we do not believe that any of these reporting units were at risk of impairment as of December 26, 2015.

Income Taxes
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized when differences arise between the treatment of certain items for financial statement and tax purposes.  Realization of certain components of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the occurrence of future events.  The Company records valuation allowances to reduce its deferred tax assets to the amount it believes is more likely than not to be realized.  These valuation allowances can be impacted by changes in tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates, and future taxable income levels and are based on the Company’s judgment, estimates, and assumptions.  In the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or a portion of the net deferred tax assets in the future, the Company would increase the valuation allowance through a charge to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.  Conversely, if the Company were to determine that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future, in excess of the net carrying amounts, the Company would decrease the recorded valuation allowance through a decrease to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.

The Company provides for uncertain tax positions and the related interest and penalties, if any, based upon management’s assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities.  Tax benefits for uncertain tax positions that are recognized in the financial statements are measured as the largest amount of benefit, determined on a cumulative probability basis, that is more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement.  To the extent the Company prevails in matters for which a liability for an uncertain tax position is established or is required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, its effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be affected.
Environmental Reserves

The Company recognizes
We recognize an environmental liabilityreserve when it is probable the liability existsthat a loss is likely to occur and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable.  We estimate the duration and extent of our remediation obligations based upon reports of outside consultants; internal analyses of cleanup costs, and ongoing monitoring costs; communications with regulatory agencies; and changes in environmental law.  If we were to determine that our estimates of the duration or extent of our environmental obligations were no longer accurate, we would adjust our environmental liabilitiesreserve accordingly in the period that such determination is made.  Estimated future expenditures for environmental remediation are not discounted to their present value.  Accrued environmental liabilities are not reduced by potential insurance reimbursements.

Environmental expenses that relate to ongoing operations are included as a component of cost of goods sold.  Environmental expenses related to non-operating properties are included in other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Allowance for Doubtful AccountsIncome Taxes

The Company provides an allowance
We estimate total income tax expense based on domestic and international statutory income tax rates in the tax jurisdictions where we operate, permanent differences between financial reporting and tax reporting, and available credits and incentives.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for receivablesthe future tax effects of temporary differences between the treatment of certain items for financial statement and tax purposes using tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse.  Realization of certain components of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the occurrence of future events.  

Valuation allowances are recorded when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that mayall or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be fully collected.  In circumstances where werealized.  These valuation allowances can be impacted by changes in tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates, and future taxable income levels, and are aware of a customer’s inability to meet their financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings or substantial downgrading of credit ratings), we record an allowance for doubtful accounts against amounts due to reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount we believe most likely will be collected.  For all other customers, we recognize an allowance for doubtful accounts based on our historical collection experience.  If circumstances change (e.g., greaterjudgment, estimates, and assumptions.  In the event we were to determine that we would not be able to realize all or a portion of the net deferred tax assets in the future, we would increase the valuation allowance through a charge to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.  Conversely, if we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future, in excess of the net carrying amounts, we would decrease the recorded valuation allowance through a decrease to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.

We record liabilities for known or anticipated tax issues based on our analysis of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due.  These unrecognized tax benefits are retained until the associated uncertainty is resolved.  Tax benefits for uncertain tax positions that are recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements are measured as the largest amount of benefit, determined on a cumulative probability basis, that is more likely than expected defaultsnot to be realized upon ultimate settlement.  To the extent we prevail in matters for which a liability for an uncertain tax position is established or an unexpected material changeare required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, our effective tax rate in a major customer’s ability to meet their financial obligations), our estimate of the recoverability of amounts due couldgiven period may be changed by a material amount.materially affected.
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Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This Annual Report contains various forward-looking statements and includes assumptions concerning the Company’sCompany's operations, future results, and prospects.  These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risk and uncertainties.  uncertainties, and may be influenced by factors that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those predicted.  The forward-looking statements reflect knowledge and information available as of the date of preparation of the Annual Report, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.  We identify the forward-looking statements by using the words "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "intends" or similar expressions in such statements.
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In connection with the “safe harbor”"safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Company provides the following cautionary statement identifying important economic, political, and technological factors, among others, which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by the forward-looking statements and related assumptions.

In addition to those factors discussed under “Risk Factors”"Risk Factors" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, such factors include: (i) the current and projected future business environment, including interest rates and capital and consumer spending; (ii) the domestic housing and commercial construction industry environment; (iii) availability and price fluctuations in commodities (including copper, natural gas, and other raw materials, including crude oil that indirectly affects plastic resins); (iv) competitive factors and competitor responses to the Company’sCompany's initiatives; (v) stability of government laws and regulations, including taxes; (vi) availability of financing; and (vii) continuation of the environment to make acquisitions, domestic and foreign, including regulatory requirements and market values of candidates.
 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 27, 2014, December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012

(In thousands, except per share data) 2014  2013  2012 
             
Net sales $2,364,227  $2,158,541  $2,189,938 
             
Cost of goods sold  2,043,719   1,862,089   1,904,463 
Depreciation and amortization  33,735   32,394   31,495 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  131,740   134,914   129,456 
Insurance settlements     (106,332)  (1,500)
Gain on sale of assets  (6,259)  (39,765)   
Impairment charges     4,304    
Litigation settlements        (4,050)
Severance  7,296      3,369 
             
Operating income  153,996   270,937   126,705 
             
Interest expense  (5,740)  (3,990)  (6,890)
Other (expense) income, net  (243)  4,451   539 
             
Income before income taxes  148,013   271,398   120,354 
             
Income tax expense  (45,479)  (98,109)  (36,681)
             
Consolidated net income  102,534   173,289   83,673 
             
Less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest  (974)  (689)  (1,278)
             
Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc. $101,560  $172,600  $82,395 
             
Weighted average shares for basic earnings per share  56,042   55,742   70,664 
Effect of dilutive stock-based awards  726   742   828 
             
Adjusted weighted average shares for diluted earnings per share  56,768   56,484   71,492 
             
Basic earnings per share $1.81  $3.10  $1.17 
             
Diluted earnings per share $1.79  $3.06  $1.15 
             
Dividends per share $0.3000  $0.2500  $0.2125 
             
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 27, 2014, December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012


(In thousands) 2014  2013   2012 
           
Consolidated net income $102,534  $173,289  $83,673 
             
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:            
Foreign currency translation  (6,766)  3,285   8,070 
Net change with respect to derivative instruments and hedging activities(1)
  (2,499)  1,713   255 
Net actuarial (loss) gain on pension and postretirement obligations(2)
  (23,006)  27,369   (847)
Other, net  15   151   14 
             
Total other comprehensive (loss) income  (32,256)  32,518   7,492 
             
Comprehensive income  70,278   205,807   91,165 
Less comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest  (822)  (1,404)  (1,984)
             
Comprehensive income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc. $69,456  $204,403  $89,181 
             
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
(1) Net of taxes of $1,362 in 2014, $(962) in 2013, and $(162) in 2012
 
(2) Net of taxes of $10,180 in 2014, $(15,015) in 2013, and $94 in 2012
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013

(In thousands, except share data) 2014  2013 
Assets      
Current assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents $352,134  $311,800 
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of  $666 in 2014 and $2,391 in 2013  275,065   271,847 
Inventories  256,585   251,716 
Other current assets  57,429   39,354 
         
Total current assets  941,213   874,717 
         
Property, plant, and equipment, net  245,910   244,457 
Goodwill, net  102,909   94,357 
Other assets  38,064   34,236 
         
Total Assets $1,328,096  $1,247,767 
         
Liabilities      
Current liabilities:      
Current portion of debt $36,194  $29,083 
Accounts payable  100,735   80,897 
Accrued wages and other employee costs  41,595   37,109 
Other current liabilities  59,545   72,167 
         
Total current liabilities  238,069   219,256 
         
Long-term debt, less current portion  205,250   206,250 
Pension liabilities  20,070   10,645 
Postretirement benefits other than pensions  21,486   16,781 
Environmental reserves  21,842   22,144 
Deferred income taxes  24,556   35,975 
Other noncurrent liabilities  1,389   849 
         
Total liabilities  532,662   511,900 
         
Equity        
Mueller Industries, Inc. stockholders’ equity:        
Preferred stock - $1.00 par value; shares authorized 5,000,000; none outstanding      
Common stock - $.01 par value; shares authorized 100,000,000; issued 80,183,004; outstanding 56,901,445 in 2014 and 56,604,674 in 2013
  802   401 
Additional paid-in capital  268,575   267,142 
Retained earnings  992,798   908,274 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (42,923)  (10,819)
Treasury common stock, at cost  (457,102)  (461,593)
         
Total Mueller Industries, Inc. stockholders’ equity  762,150   703,405 
Noncontrolling interest  33,284   32,462 
         
Total equity  795,434   735,867 
         
Commitments and contingencies      
         
Total Liabilities and Equity $1,328,096  $1,247,767 
         
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
(In thousands, except per share data) 2015  2014  2013 
       
Net sales $2,100,002  $2,364,227  $2,158,541 
             
Cost of goods sold  1,809,702   2,043,719   1,862,089 
Depreciation and amortization  34,608   33,735   32,394 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  130,358   131,740   134,914 
Insurance settlements        (106,332)
Gain on sale of assets  (15,376)  (6,259)  (39,765)
Impairment charges        4,304 
Severance  3,442   7,296    
             
Operating income  137,268   153,996   270,937 
             
Interest expense  (7,667)  (5,740)  (3,990)
Other income (expense), net  2,188   (243)  4,451 
             
Income before income taxes  131,789   148,013   271,398 
             
Income tax expense  (43,382)  (45,479)  (98,109)
             
Consolidated net income  88,407   102,534   173,289 
             
Less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest  (543)  (974)  (689)
             
Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc. $87,864  $101,560  $172,600 
             
Weighted average shares for basic earnings per share  56,316   56,042   55,742 
Effect of dilutive stock-based awards  652   726   742 
             
Adjusted weighted average shares for diluted earnings per share  56,968   56,768   56,484 
             
Basic earnings per share $1.56  $1.81  $3.10 
             
Diluted earnings per share $1.54  $1.79  $3.06 
             
Dividends per share $0.30  $0.30  $0.25 
             
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012

(In thousands) 2014  2013  2012 
Operating activities:         
Consolidated net income $102,534  $173,289  $83,673 
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            
Depreciation  30,205   30,946   30,326 
Amortization of intangibles  3,530   1,448   1,169 
Amortization of debt issuance costs  341   299   438 
Stock-based compensation expense  6,265   5,704   6,136 
Insurance settlements     (106,332)  (1,500)
(Gain) loss on disposal of assets  (5,405)  (42,300)  1,411 
Insurance proceeds – noncapital related     32,395   14,250 
Impairment charges     4,304    
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options  (837)  (719)  (2,528)
Deferred income taxes  (6,495)  19,213   (1,284)
(Recovery of) provision for doubtful accounts receivable  (500)  (273)  837 
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of businesses acquired and sold:            
Receivables  (21,432)  19,383   (23,690)
Inventories  1,381   5,963   (4,834)
Other assets  (23,652)  562   (14,985)
Current liabilities  5,849   (14,139)  8,368 
Other liabilities  (2,223)  (1,935)  9,345 
Other, net  1,044   705   1,165 
             
Net cash provided by operating activities  90,605   128,513   108,297 
             
Investing activities:            
Proceeds from sale of assets, net of cash transferred  33,788   65,147   517 
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired  (30,137)  (55,276)  (11,561)
Capital expenditures  (39,173)  (41,349)  (56,825)
Insurance proceeds     29,910   42,250 
Net (deposits into) withdrawals from restricted cash balances  (2,902)  (1,417)  9,243 
             
Net cash used in investing activities  (38,424)  (2,985)  (16,376)
             
Financing activities:            
Dividends paid to stockholders of Mueller Industries, Inc.  (16,819)  (13,941)  (14,891)
Repurchase of common stock        (427,446)
Repayments of long-term debt  (1,050)  (1,000)  (149,176)
Issuance (repayment) of debt by joint venture, net  7,258   857   (14,429)
Issuance of long-term debt        200,000 
Net cash used to settle stock-based awards  (777)  (228)  (4,181)
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options  837   719   2,528 
Debt issuance costs     (50)  (1,053)
             
Net cash used in financing activities  (10,551)  (13,643)  (408,648)
             
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  (1,296)  981   1,499 
             
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents  40,334   112,866   (315,228)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year  311,800   198,934   514,162 
             
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year $352,134  $311,800  $198,934 
             
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 

(In thousands) 2015  2014  2013 
       
Consolidated net income $88,407  $102,534  $173,289 
             
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:            
Foreign currency translation  (19,108)  (6,766)  3,285 
Net change with respect to derivative instruments and hedging activities(1)
  (1,056)  (2,499)  1,713 
Net actuarial gain (loss) on pension and postretirement
obligations(2)
  6,735   (23,006)  27,369 
Other, net  (49)  15   151 
             
Total other comprehensive (loss) income  (13,478)  (32,256)  32,518 
             
Comprehensive income  74,929   70,278   205,807 
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest  867   (822)  (1,404)
             
Comprehensive income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc. $75,796  $69,456  $204,403 
             
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
 
(1) Net of taxes of $575 in 2015, $1,362 in 2014, and $(962) in 2013
 
 
(2) Net of taxes of $(3,221) in 2015, $10,180 in 2014, and $(15,015) in 2013
 

 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 26, 2015 and December 27, 2014

(In thousands, except share data) 2015  2014 
Assets    
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $274,844  $352,134 
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of  $623 in 2015 and $666 in 2014  251,571   275,065 
Inventories  239,378   256,585 
Other current assets  34,608   57,429 
         
Total current assets  800,401   941,213 
         
Property, plant, and equipment, net  280,224   245,910 
Goodwill, net  120,252   102,909 
Intangible assets  40,636   18,464 
Investment in unconsolidated affiliate  65,900    
Other assets  31,388   19,600 
         
Total Assets $1,338,801  $1,328,096 
         
Liabilities        
Current liabilities:        
Current portion of debt $11,760  $36,194 
Accounts payable  88,051   100,735 
Accrued wages and other employee costs  35,636   41,595 
Other current liabilities  73,982   59,545 
         
Total current liabilities  209,429   238,069 
         
Long-term debt, less current portion  204,250   205,250 
Pension liabilities  17,449   20,070 
Postretirement benefits other than pensions  17,427   21,486 
Environmental reserves  20,943   21,842 
Deferred income taxes  7,161   24,556 
Other noncurrent liabilities  2,440   1,389 
         
Total liabilities  479,099   532,662 
         
Equity        
Mueller Industries, Inc. stockholders' equity:        
Preferred stock - $1.00 par value; shares authorized 5,000,000; none outstanding      
Common stock - $.01 par value; shares authorized 100,000,000; issued 80,183,004; outstanding 57,158,608 in 2015 and 56,901,445 in 2014
  802   802 
Additional paid-in capital  271,158   268,575 
Retained earnings  1,063,543   992,798 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (54,990)  (42,923)
Treasury common stock, at cost  (453,228)  (457,102)
         
Total Mueller Industries, Inc. stockholders' equity  827,285   762,150 
Noncontrolling interest  32,417   33,284 
         
Total equity  859,702   795,434 
         
Commitments and contingencies      
         
Total Liabilities and Equity $1,338,801  $1,328,096 
         
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013

(In thousands) 2015  2014  2013 
Operating activities:      
Consolidated net income $88,407  $102,534  $173,289 
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            
Depreciation  30,556   30,205   30,946 
Amortization of intangibles  4,052   3,530   1,448 
Amortization of debt issuance costs  432   341   299 
Stock-based compensation expense  6,244   6,265   5,704 
Insurance settlements        (106,332)
Gain on disposal of assets  (14,815)  (5,405)  (42,300)
Insurance proceeds – noncapital related        32,395 
Impairment charges        4,304 
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options  (972)  (837)  (719)
Deferred income taxes  (15,818)  (6,495)  19,213 
Recovery of doubtful accounts receivable  (130)  (500)  (273)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of businesses acquired and sold:            
Receivables  51,660   (21,432)  19,383 
Inventories  41,086   1,381   5,963 
Other assets  12,449   (23,652)  562 
Current liabilities  (45,585)  5,849   (14,139)
Other liabilities  436   (2,223)  (1,935)
Other, net  1,607   1,044   705 
             
Net cash provided by operating activities  159,609   90,605   128,513 
             
Investing activities:            
Proceeds from sale of assets, net of cash transferred  5,538   33,788   65,147 
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired  (105,944)  (30,137)  (55,276)
Capital expenditures  (28,834)  (39,173)  (41,349)
Investment in unconsolidated affiliate  (65,900)      
Insurance proceeds        29,910 
Net withdrawals from (deposits into) restricted cash balances  4,333   (2,902)  (1,417)
             
Net cash used in investing activities  (190,807)  (38,424)  (2,985)
             
Financing activities:            
Dividends paid to stockholders of Mueller Industries, Inc.  (16,903)  (16,819)  (13,941)
Repayments of long-term debt  (1,000)  (1,050)  (1,000)
(Repayment) issuance of debt by joint venture, net  (23,567)  7,258   857 
Net cash used to settle stock-based awards  (760)  (777)  (228)
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options  972   837   719 
Debt issuance costs        (50)
             
Net cash used in financing activities  (41,258)  (10,551)  (13,643)
             
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  (4,834)  (1,296)  981 
             
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents  (77,290)  40,334   112,866 
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year  352,134   311,800   198,934 
             
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year $274,844  $352,134  $311,800 
             
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
Years Ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012

 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
(In thousands)  Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount 
Common stock:                         
Balance at beginning of year  80,183  $401   80,183  $401   80,183  $401   80,183  $802   80,183  $401   80,183  $401 
Issuance of shares under two-for-one stock split  401                401       
                                           
Balance at end of year  80,183  $802   80,183  $401   80,183  $401   80,183  $802   80,183  $802   80,183  $401 
                                     
Additional paid-in capital:                                     
Balance at beginning of year    $267,142    $267,826    $266,936      $268,575      $267,142      $267,826 
Issuance of shares under incentive stock option plans     (1,646)     (1,205)     (4,303)      (1,074)      (1,646)      (1,205)
Stock-based compensation expense     6,265      5,704     6,136       6,244       6,265       5,704 
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options     837      719     2,528       972       837       719 
Issuance of shares under two-for-one stock split   (401)                    (401)       
Issuance of restricted stock     (3,622)     (5,902)     (3,471)      (3,559)      (3,622)      (5,902)
                                      
Balance at end of year     $268,575      $267,142     $267,826      $271,158      $268,575      $267,142 
                                     
Retained earnings:                                      
Balance at beginning of year    $908,274    $749,777    $682,380      $992,798      $908,274      $749,777 
Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.     101,560      172,600     82,395       87,864       101,560       172,600 
Dividends paid or payable to stockholders of Mueller Industries, Inc.      (17,036)      (14,103)      (14,998)      (17,119)      (17,036)      (14,103)
                                      
Balance at end of year     $992,798      $908,274     $749,777      $1,063,543      $992,798      $908,274 
                                     
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income:                                     
Balance at beginning of year    $(10,819)   $(42,623)   $(49,409)     $(42,923)     $(10,819)     $(42,623)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.      (32,104)      31,804       6,786       (12,067)      (32,104)      31,804 
                                      
Balance at end of year     $(42,923)     $(10,819)     $(42,623)     $(54,990)     $(42,923)     $(10,819)
                                     
 

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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(continued)
Years Ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012

 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
(In thousands) Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount 
Treasury stock:                         
Balance at beginning of year  23,578  $(461,593)  23,984  $(468,473)  3,710  $(44,620)  23,282  $(457,102)  23,578  $(461,593)  23,984  $(468,473)
Issuance of shares under incentive stock option plans  (208) 4,504   (244)  4,716   (1,152)  20,881   (149)  2,930   (208)  4,504   (244)  4,716 
Repurchase of common stock  107 (3,832)  140   (3,738)  21,710   (448,205)  84   (2,840)  107   (3,832)  140   (3,738)
Issuance of restricted stock  (195)  3,819   (302)  5,902  (284)  3,471   (193)  3,784   (195)  3,819   (302)  5,902 
                                      
Balance at end of year  23,282 $(457,102)  23,578  $(461,593)  23,984  $(468,473)  23,024  $(453,228)  23,282  $(457,102)  23,578  $(461,593)
                                     
Noncontrolling interest:                                     
Balance at beginning of year   $32,462   $31,058   $29,074      $33,284      $32,462      $31,058 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest   974   689   1,278       543       974       689 
Foreign currency translation     (152)     715     706       (1,410)      (152)      715 
                                     
Balance at end of year    $33,284    $32,462    $31,058      $32,417      $33,284      $32,462 
                                     
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. 
 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Nature of Operations

The principal business of Mueller Industries, Inc. is the manufacture and sale of copper tube and fittings; line sets; brass and copper alloy rod, bar, and shapes; aluminum and brass forgings; aluminum and copper impact extrusions; plastic fittings and valves; refrigeration valves and fittings; fabricated tubular products; and steel nipples.  The Company also resells imported brass and plastic plumbing valves, malleable iron fittings, faucets, and plumbing specialty products.  The Company markets its products to the HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, hardware, and other industries.  Mueller’sMueller's operations are located throughout the United States and in Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, and China.

Fiscal Years

The Company’sCompany's fiscal year consists of 52 weeks ending on the last Saturday of December.  These dates were December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012.2013.

PrinciplesReclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years' Consolidated Financial Statements to conform to the current year's presentation.

Basis of ConsolidationPresentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Mueller Industries, Inc. and its majority owned subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  The noncontrolling interest represents a separate private ownership of 49.5 percent of Mueller-Xingrong.Jiangsu Mueller-Xingrong Copper Industries Limited (Mueller-Xingrong), which manufactures and sells copper tube and fittings in China.  The Consolidated Financial Statements also include the Company's investment in MA Industrial JV LLC, the joint venture (Joint Venture) that acquired Tecumseh Products Company (Tecumseh), which manufactures compressors and related products globally.  This investment is accounted for using the equity method of accounting.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.  

Common Stock Split

On February 21, 2014, the Company announced a two-for-one stock split of its common stock effected in the form of a stock dividend of one share for each outstanding share.  The record date for the stock split was March 14, 2014, and the additional shares were distributed on March 28, 2014.  Accordingly, all references to share and per share amounts presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements and this Annual Report on Form 10-K have been adjusted retroactively to reflect the stock split.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized when title and risk of loss pass to the customer, provided collection is determined to be probable and no significant obligations remain for the Company.  Estimates for future rebates on certain product lines and product returns are recognized in the period in which the revenue is recorded.  The cost of shipping product to customers is expensed as incurred as a component of cost of goods sold.

Acquisitions

Accounting for acquisitions requires the Company to recognize separately from goodwill the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their acquisition date fair values.  Goodwill is measured as the excess of the purchase price over the net amount allocated to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.  While management uses its best estimates and assumptions to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, the estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement.  As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill.  The operating results generated by the acquired businesses are included in the Consolidated Statements of Income from their respective dates of acquisition.  Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred.  See "Note 2 – Acquisitions and Dispositions" for additional information.
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Cash Equivalents

Temporary investments with original maturities of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents.  These investments are stated at cost.  At December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, temporary investments consisted of money market mutual funds, commercial paper, bank repurchase agreements, and U.S. and foreign government securities totaling $144.9$106.4 million and $179.2$144.9 million, respectively.  Included in other current assets is restricted cash of $8.1$3.7 million and $5.2$8.1 million at December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, respectively.  These amounts represent required deposits into brokerage accounts that facilitate the Company’sCompany's hedging activities and deposits that secure certain short-term notes issued under Mueller-Xingrong’sMueller-Xingrong's credit facility.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company provides an allowance for receivables that may not be fully collected.  In circumstances where the Company is aware of a customer’scustomer's inability to meet their financial obligations (e.g., bankruptcy filings or substantial downgrading of credit ratings)rating downgrades), it records an allowance for doubtful accounts against amounts due to reduce the net recognized receivable to the amount it believes most likely will be collected.  For all other customers, the Company recognizes an allowance for doubtful accounts based on its historical collection experience.  If circumstances change (e.g., greater than expected defaults or an unexpected material change in a major customer’scustomer's ability to meet their financial obligations), the Company could change its estimate of the recoverability of amounts due by a material amount.

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Inventories

The Company’sCompany's inventories are valued at the lower-of-cost-or-market.  The material component of its U.S. copper tube and copper fittings inventories is valued on a LIFO basis.  Other manufactured inventories, including the non-material components of U.S. copper tube and copper fittings, are valued on a FIFO basis.  Certain inventories purchased for resale are valued on an average cost basis.  Elements of cost in finished goods inventory in addition to the cost of material include depreciation, amortization, utilities, maintenance, production wages, and transportation costs.
 
The market price of copper cathode and scrap is subject to volatility.  During periods when open market prices decline below net book value, the Company may need to provide an allowance to reduce the carrying value of its inventory.  In addition, certain items in inventory may be considered obsolete and, as such, the Company may establish an allowance to reduce the carrying value of those items to their net realizable value.  Changes in these estimates related to the value of inventory, if any, may result in a materially adverse impact on the Company’sCompany's reported financial position or results of operations.  The Company recognizes the impact of any changes in estimates, assumptions, and judgments in income in the period in which it is determined.  See “Note"Note 3 – Inventories”Inventories" for additional information.

Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, plant, and equipment areis stated at cost.cost less accumulated depreciation.  Expenditures for major additions and improvements are capitalized, while minor replacements, maintenance, and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.  Depreciation of buildings, machinery, and equipment is provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives ranging from 20 to 40 years for buildings and five to 20 years for machinery and equipment.  Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their useful life or the remaining lease term.  Repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

The Company continually evaluates these assets to determine whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that may warrant revision of the estimated useful life or whether the remaining balance should be evaluated for possible impairment.  See “Note"Note 5 – Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net”Net" for additional information.
 
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Goodwill

Goodwill represents cost inis recognized for the excess of the purchase price over the fair values assigned to the underlyingvalue of tangible and identifiable intangible net assets of businesses acquired. Several factors give rise to goodwill in business acquisitions, such as the expected benefit from synergies of the combination and the existing workforce of the acquired businesses.business. Goodwill is subject toevaluated annually for possible impairment testing, which is performed by the Company as of the first day of the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, unless circumstances dictate more frequent testing.  For testing purposes,indicate the Company defines reporting units as componentsneed to accelerate the timing of its operating segments; components of a segment having similar economic characteristics are combined.  The annual impairment test is a two-step process.  The first step is the estimation of fair value of reporting units that have goodwill.  If this estimate indicates that impairment potentially exists,evaluation. In the second step is performed.  Step two, used to measure the amountevaluation of goodwill impairment, loss, compares the implied fair value of goodwillmanagement performs a qualitative assessment to the carrying value.  In step two the Companydetermine if it is required to allocatemore likely than not that the fair value of eacha reporting unit as determined in step one,is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, management proceeds to a two-step process to test goodwill for impairment, including comparing the fair value of the reporting unit’s assets and liabilities, including unrecognized intangible assets and corporate allocation where applicable, in a hypothetical purchase price allocation as ifunit to its carrying value (including attributable goodwill).  If this process indicates that the reporting unit had been purchased on that date.  If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying value, ana second step of impairment chargetesting is recorded.  The reporting units with significant recorded goodwill include Standard Products (SPD), Mueller Europe, Limited (MEL), and Westermeyer.  SPD and MEL are included inperformed to measure the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment, and Westermeyer is included in the OEM segment.  There can be no assurance that additionalpotential amount of goodwill impairment will not occur in the future.loss.

Because there are no observable inputs available,Fair value for the Company estimates fair value ofCompany's reporting units based onis determined using a combination of the income and market approach and income approachapproaches (Level 3 hierarchy as defined by Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 820, Fair Value Measurementswithin the fair value hierarchy), incorporating market participant considerations and Disclosuresmanagement's assumptions on revenue growth rates, operating margins, discount rates and expected capital expenditures.  (ASC 820)).  The market approach measures the fair value of a business through the analysis of publicly traded companies or recent sales of similar businesses.  The income approach uses a discounted cash flow model to estimate the fair value of reporting units based on expected cash flows (adjusted for capital investment required to support operations) and a terminal value.  This cash flow stream is discounted to its present value to arrive at a fair value for each reporting unit.  Future earnings are estimated using the Company’sCompany's most recent annual projections, applying a growth rate to future periods.  Those projections are directly impacted by the condition of the markets in which the Company’sCompany's businesses participate.  The discount rate selected for the reporting units is generally based on rates of return available for comparable companies at the date of valuation.  Fair value determinations may include both internal and third-party valuations.  See “Note"Note 6 – Goodwill Net”and Other Intangible Assets" for additional information.

Investment in Unconsolidated Affiliate
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The Company owns a 50 percent interest in the Joint Venture, an unconsolidated affiliate that acquired Tecumseh. This investment is accounted for using the equity method of accounting as the Company can exercise significant influence but does not own a majority equity interest or otherwise control the Joint Venture.  Under the equity method of accounting, investments are stated at initial cost and are adjusted for subsequent additional investments and our proportionate share of earnings or losses and distributions.

TableThe Company records its proportionate share of Contents
the investee's net income one quarter in arrears as equity in earnings of the unconsolidated affiliate in the Consolidated Statements of Income.  Due to the timing of the investment in 2015, there was no amount recorded during the year ended December 26, 2015.  The Company's proportionate share of the investee's other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes, is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity and Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. In general, the equity investment in the unconsolidated affiliate is equal to the current equity investment plus that entity's undistributed earnings.

The investment in the unconsolidated affiliate is assessed periodically for impairment and is written down when the carrying amount is not considered fully recoverable.  See "Note 7 - Equity Method Investment" for additional information.

Self-Insurance Accruals

The Company is primarily self-insured for workers’workers' compensation claims and benefits paid under certain employee health care programs.  Accruals are primarily based on estimated undiscounted cost of claims, which includes incurred but not reported claims, and are classified as accrued wages and other employee costs.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

The Company sponsors several qualified and nonqualified pension and other postretirement benefit plans in the U.S. and certain foreign locations.  The Company recognizes the overfunded or underfunded status of the plans as an asset or liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheet with changes in the funded status recorded through comprehensive income in the year in which those changes occur.  The obligations for these plans are actuarially determined and affected by assumptions, including discount rates, expected long-term return on plan assets for defined benefit pension plans, and certain employee-related factors, such as retirement age and mortality.  The Company evaluates its assumptions periodically and makes adjustments as necessary.
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The expected return on plan assets is determined using the market value of plan assets.  Differences between assumed and actual returns are amortized to the market value of assets on a straight-line basis over the average remaining service period of the plan participants using the corridor approach.  The corridor approach defers all actuarial gains and losses resulting from variances between actual results and actuarial assumptions.  These unrecognized gains and losses are amortized when the net gains and losses exceed 10 percent of the greater of the market value of the plan assets or the projected benefit obligation.  The amount in excess of the corridor is amortized over the average remaining service period of the plan participants.  For 2014,2015, the average remaining service period for the pension plans was nine years.  See “Note 13"Note 14 –Benefit Plans”Plans" for additional information.

Environmental Reserves and Environmental Expenses

The Company recognizes an environmental liability when it is probable the liability exists and the amount is reasonably estimable.  The Company estimates the duration and extent of its remediation obligations based upon reports of outside consultants; internal analyses of cleanup costs and ongoing monitoring costs; communications with regulatory agencies; and changes in environmental law.  If the Company were to determine that its estimates of the duration or extent of its environmental obligations were no longer accurate, it would adjust environmental liabilities accordingly in the period that such determination is made.  Estimated future expenditures for environmental remediation are not discounted to their present value.  Accrued environmental liabilities are not reduced by potential insurance reimbursements.

Environmental expenses that relate to ongoing operations are included as a component of cost of goods sold.  Environmental expenses related to non-operating properties are included in other income, net on the Consolidated Statements of Income.  See “Note 8"Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies”Contingencies" for additional information.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the increase in weighted average common shares outstanding that would result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options and vesting of restricted stock awards calculated using the treasury stock method.  Approximately 427 thousand and 180 thousand stock-based awards were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the yearyears ended December 26, 2015 and December 27, 2014, respectively, because they were antidilutive.

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Income Taxes

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized when differences arise between the treatment of certain items for financial statement and tax purposes.  Realization of certain components of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the occurrence of future events.  The Company records valuation allowances to reduce its deferred tax assets to the amount it believes is more likely than not to be realized.  These valuation allowances can be impacted by changes in tax laws, changes to statutory tax rates, and future taxable income levels and are based on the Company’sCompany's judgment, estimates, and assumptions regarding those future events.  In the event the Company was to determine that it would not be able to realize all or a portion of the net deferred tax assets in the future, it would increase the valuation allowance through a charge to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.  Conversely, if it were to determine that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future, in excess of the net carrying amounts, the Company would decrease the recorded valuation allowance through a decrease to income tax expense in the period that such determination is made.

The Company provides for uncertain tax positions and the related interest and penalties, if any, based upon management’smanagement's assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by tax authorities.  Tax benefits for uncertain tax positions that are recognized in the financial statements are measured as the largest amount of benefit, determined on a cumulative probability basis, that is more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement.  To the extent the Company prevails in matters for which a liability for an uncertain tax position is established or is required to pay amounts in excess of the liability, the Company’sCompany's effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be affected.
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These estimates are highly subjective and could be affected by changes in business conditions and other factors.  Changes in any of these factors could have a material impact on future income tax expense.  See “Note 9"Note 10 – Income Taxes”Taxes" for additional information.

Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities

Taxes assessed by a governmental authority that are directly imposed on a revenue producing transaction between the Company and its customers, primarily value added taxes in foreign jurisdictions, are accounted for on a net (excluded from revenues and costs) basis.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has in effect stock incentive plans under which stock-based awards have been granted to certain employees and members of its Board of Directors.  Stock-based compensation expense is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income as a component of selling, general, and administrative expense based on the grant date fair value of the awards.  See “Note 11"Note 12 – Stock-Based Compensation”Compensation" for additional information.

Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk

Concentrations of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable are limited due to the large number of customers comprising the Company’sCompany's customer base, and their dispersion across different geographic areas and different industries, including HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, hardware, automotive, OEMs, and others.

The Company minimizes its exposure to base metal price fluctuations through various strategies.  Generally, it prices an equivalent amount of copper raw material, under flexible pricing arrangements it maintains with its suppliers, at the time it determines the selling price of finished products to its customers.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company's earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, and interest rates.  The Company may utilizeuses derivative instruments such as commodity futures contracts, to manage the volatility related to purchases of copper through cash flow hedges.  It may also utilize futures contracts to protect the value of the copper inventory on hand and firm commitments to purchase copper through fair value hedges.  The Company may elect to utilize futures contracts as economic hedges that do not qualify for hedge accounting in accordance with ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815).  In addition, the Company may use foreign currency forward contracts, and interest rate swaps to reduce the risk from exchange rate fluctuations on future purchases and intercompany transactions denominated in foreign currencies. manage these exposures.


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All derivatives are recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at their fair value.  On the date the derivative contract is entered into, it is designated as (i) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flow to be paid (cash flow hedge), or (ii) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability (fair value hedge).  Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is qualified, designated, and highly effective as a cash flow hedge are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), to the extent effective, until they are reclassified to earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings.  Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is qualified, designated, and highly effective as a fair value hedge, along with the gain or loss on the hedged recognized asset or liability that is attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in current earnings.  Changes in the fair value of undesignated derivative instruments and the ineffective portion of designated derivative instruments are reported in current earnings.

The Company documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions.  This process includes linking all derivatives that are designated as fair value hedges to specific assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and linking cash flow hedges to specific forecasted transactions or variability of cash flow.

The Company also assesses, both at the hedge’shedge's inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the designated derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flow or fair values of hedged items.  When a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge or the underlying hedged transaction is no longer probable, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively, in accordance with the derecognition criteria for hedge accounting.
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The Company primarily executes derivative contracts with major financial institutions.  These counterparties expose the Company to credit risk in the event of non-performance.  The amount of such exposure is limited to the fair value of the contract plus the unpaid portion of amounts due to the Company pursuant to terms of the derivative instruments, if any.  If a downgrade in the credit rating of these counterparties occurs, management believes that this exposure is mitigated by provisions in the derivative arrangements which allow for the legal right of offset of any amounts due to the Company from the counterparties with any amounts payable to the counterparties by the Company.  As a result, management considers the risk of loss from counterparty default to be minimal.  See “Note 14"Note 15 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”Activities" for additional information.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
 
The fair value of long-term debt at December 27, 201426, 2015 approximates the carrying value on that date.  The estimated fair values were determined based on quoted market prices and the current rates offered for debt with similar terms and maturities.  The fair value of long-term debt is classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.  This classification is defined as a fair value determined using market-based inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the liability, either directly or indirectly.  Outstanding borrowings have variable interest rates that re-price frequently at current market rates.

Foreign Currency Translation

For foreign subsidiaries in which the functional currency is other thannot the U.S. dollar, balance sheet accounts are translated at exchange rates in effect at the end of the year and income statement accounts are translated at average exchange rates for the year.  Translation gains and losses are included in equity as a component of OCI.AOCI.  Included in the Consolidated Statements of Income were transaction losses of $1.7 million in 2015, gains of $0.1 million in 2014, and losses of $0.1 million in 2013, and losses of $0.3 million in 2012.2013.

Use of and Changes in Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates, assumptions, and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  ActualManagement makes its best estimate of the ultimate outcome for these items based on historical trends and other information available when the financial statements are prepared. Changes in estimates are recognized in accordance with the accounting rules for the estimate, which is typically in the period when new information becomes available to management. Areas where the nature of the estimate makes it reasonably possible that actual results could materially differ from those estimates.amounts estimated include but are not limited to: pension and other postretirement benefit plan obligations, tax liabilities, loss contingencies, litigation claims, environmental reserves, and impairment assessments on long-lived assets (including goodwill).

Change in Segment Reporting
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Beginning in fiscal year 2016, the Company will change its operating segments and report future results as three separate segments: Piping Systems, Industrial Metals, and Cold Climate.
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Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No, 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity (ASU 2014-08).  The ASU significantly changed the criteria for reporting a discontinued operation and added disclosure requirements for discontinued operations and other disposal transactions.  It is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014 and is applied prospectively.  The Company has elected early adoption of ASU 2014-08 effective September 28, 2014.  The new guidance did not have a significant impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements or related disclosures.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (ASU 2014-09).  The ASU will supersede virtually all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP and will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016.2017.  The fundamental principles of the new guidance are that companies should recognize revenue in a manner that reflects the timing of the transfer of services to customers and the amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration that a company expects to receive for the goods and services provided.  The new guidance establishes a five-step approach for the recognition of revenue.  The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of ASU 2014-09 on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
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In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Topic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issue Costs (ASU 2015-03).  The ASU simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs by requiring debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the debt liability rather than as a separate asset.  In circumstances in which there is not an associated debt liability amount recorded in the financial statements when the debt issuance costs are incurred, they will be reported on the balance sheet as an asset until the debt liability is recorded.  The guidance is effective for public business entities in interim and fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2015.  Retrospective application is required, and early adoption is permitted.  The Company does not expect the adoption to have a material impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-04, Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Practical Expedient for the Measurement Date of an Employers' Defined Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets (ASU 2015-04).  The ASU allows employers with fiscal year-ends that do not coincide with a calendar month-end to make an accounting policy election to measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the end of the month closest to their fiscal year-ends.  The new guidance is effective for public business entities in interim and fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2015.  Prospective application is required, and early adoption is permitted.  The Company will continue to measure its defined benefit plan assets and obligation at fiscal year-end and will not elect to change the measurement date to a calendar month-end.

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (ASU 2015-11).  The ASU simplifies the subsequent measurement of inventory by requiring inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value, defined as the estimated selling price in the normal course of business less reasonably predictable costs of completion, sale, and transportation.  It does not impact existing impairment models to inventories that are accounted for using LIFO.  The guidance is effective for public business entities in interim and fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  Early adoption is permitted and prospective application is required.  The Company has elected early adoption of ASU 2015-11 effective December 26, 2015 in order to simplify the measurement of inventory.  The adoption of the ASU did not have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments (ASU 2015-16).  The ASU eliminates the requirement for an acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively.  Instead, acquirers must recognize measurement-period adjustments during the period in which they determine the amounts, including the effect on earnings of any amounts they would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date.  The new guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015.  Early adoption is permitted and the ASU applies to open measurement periods after the effective date, regardless of the acquisition date.  The Company has elected early adoption of ASU 2015-16 effective September 27, 2015.

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740), Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes (ASU 2015-17).  The ASU simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes by requiring that all deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  In addition, companies will no longer allocate valuation allowances between current and noncurrent deferred tax assets.  This guidance is effective for public business entities in interim and fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2016.  Prospective or retrospective application is allowed, and early adoption is permitted.  The Company has elected early adoption of ASU 2015-17 effective December 26, 2015 on a prospective basis; prior periods were not retrospectively adjusted.  As a result of the adoption, $24.6 million of deferred tax assets that were previously classified as current assets were reclassified to noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 26, 2015.


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Note 2 – Acquisitions and Dispositions

2015 Acquisitions
Acquisitions
Great Lakes Copper

On OctoberJuly 31, 2015, the Company entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with Great Lakes Copper, Inc. providing for the purchase of all of the outstanding shares of Great Lakes Copper Ltd. (Great Lakes) for $70.0 million in cash, including a $1.5 million post-closing working capital adjustment.  Great Lakes manufactures copper tube products in Canada.  This acquisition complements the Company's existing copper tube businesses in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  

Sherwood Valve Products

On June 18, 2013,2015, the Company entered into a Membership Interest Purchase Agreement with Sherwood Valve Products, LLC (Sherwood) providing for the purchase of all of the outstanding equity interests of Sherwood for $21.8 million in cash, net of a post-closing working capital adjustment.  Sherwood manufactures valves and fluid control solutions for the HVAC, refrigeration, and compressed gas markets.  The acquisition of Sherwood complements the Company's existing refrigeration business, a component of the OEM segment.

Turbotec Products, Inc.

On March 30, 2015, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement with Turbotec Products, Inc. (Turbotec) providing for the purchase of all of the outstanding capital stock of Turbotec for approximately $14.1 million in cash, net of a post-closing working capital adjustment. Turbotec manufactures coaxial heat exchangers and twisted tubes for the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC), geothermal, refrigeration, swimming pool heat pump, marine, ice machine, commercial boiler, and heat reclamation markets.  The acquisition of Turbotec complements the Company's existing refrigeration business, a component of the OEM segment.

2014 Acquisition

Yorkshire Copper Tube

On February 28, 2014, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with KME Yorkshire Limited to acquire certain assets and assume certain liabilities of its copper tube business.  Yorkshire Copper Tube (Yorkshire) produces European standard copper distribution tubes.   This transaction received regulatory approval in the United Kingdom on February 11, 2014 and closed on February 28, 2014.  The purchase price was approximately $30.1 million, paid in cash.  The acquisition of Yorkshire complements the Company’sCompany's existing copper tube businesses in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  In 2012, Yorkshire had annual revenue of approximately $196.1 million.  During the third quarter of 2014, the purchase price allocation, including all fair value measurements, was finalized.  The fair value of the assets acquired totaled $20.7 million, consisting primarily of inventories of $17.6 million, property, plant, and equipment of $2.1 million, and other current assets of $1.0 million.  The fair value of the liabilities assumed totaled $15.6 million, consisting primarily of accounts payable and accrued expenses of $15.2 million and other current liabilities of $0.4 million.  Of the remaining purchase price, $8.1 million was allocated to tax-deductible goodwill and $16.9 million was allocated to other intangible assets.

The Company recognized approximately $7.3$3.4 million of severance costs related to the reorganization of Yorkshire during 2014 and expects2015, compared to recognize an additional $2.7$7.3 million in 2014.  The Company does not expect to incur further severance costs for the rationalization of expense in 2015.the business.

2013 Acquisition

Howell Metals Company

On October 17, 2013, the Company entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement with Commercial Metals Company and Howell Metal Company (Howell) providing for the purchase of all of the outstanding capital stock of Howell for approximately $55.3 million in cash, net of working capital adjustments.  Howell manufactures copper tube and line sets for U.S. distribution.  The acquisition of Howell complements the Company’sCompany's copper tube and line sets businesses, both components of the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  For the twelve months ended August 31, 2013, Howell’s net sales for copper tube and line sets totaled $156.3 million.  During the first quarter of 2014, the purchase price allocation, including all fair value measurements, was finalized.  The fair value of the assets acquired totaled $63.0 million, consisting primarily of receivables of $14.6 million, inventories of $27.6 million, property, plant, and equipment of $20.3 million, and other current assets of $0.5 million.  The fair value of the liabilities assumed totaled $11.4 million, consisting primarily of accounts payable and accrued expenses of $9.9 million and other current liabilities of $1.5 million.  Of the remaining purchase price, $2.3 million was allocated to other intangible assets and $1.3 million to tax-deductible goodwill.  

On August 16, 2012, the Company acquired 100 percent of the outstanding stock of Westermeyer Industries, Inc. (Westermeyer) for approximately $11.6 million in cash.  Westermeyer, located in Bluffs, Illinois, designs, manufactures, and distributes high-pressure components and accessories for the air-conditioning and refrigeration markets.  The acquisition of Westermeyer complements the Company’s existing refrigeration business, a component of the OEM segment.  The fair value of the assets acquired totaled $7.5 million, consisting of receivables of $2.0 million, inventories of $1.9 million, and property, plant, and equipment of $3.6 million.  These assets were partially offset by current liabilities of approximately $1.0 million.  Of the remaining purchase price, $2.3 million was allocated to tax-deductible goodwill and $2.7 million to other intangible assets.

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These acquisitions were accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting.  Therefore,accounting whereby the total purchase price was allocated to tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on respective fair values.

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The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price to acquire these businesses, which was financed by available cash balances, as well as the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the respective acquisition dates.  For the Great Lakes, Sherwood, and Turbotec acquisitions, the purchase price allocations are provisional as of December 26, 2015 and subject to change upon completion of the final valuation of the long-lived assets during their respective measurement periods.

(in thousands) Great Lakes  Sherwood  Turbotec  Yorkshire  Howell   
 
Total consideration $70,011  $21,795  $14,138  $30,137  $55,276   
                       
Allocated to:                      
Accounts receivable  26,079   6,490   1,936      14,564   
Inventories  15,233   11,892   3,247   17,579   27,615   
Other current assets  22   260   72   1,034   571   
Property, plant, and equipment  22,771   10,327   9,080   2,103   20,293   
Goodwill(1)
  19,087 
(1) 
    2,088   8,075 
(1) 
 1,358  
(1) 
Intangible assets  27,468   (38)  880   16,937   2,320   
Other assets  1,413      59         
Total assets acquired  112,073   28,931   17,362   45,728   66,721   
                       
Accounts payable  36,026   6,022   1,603   10,188   9,208   
Accrued wages & other employee costs     471   356   1,167   703   
Other current liabilities  381   487   51   4,236   1,534   
Postretirement benefits    other than pensions  5,655               
Other noncurrent liabilities     156   1,214         
Total liabilities assumed  42,062   7,136   3,224   15,591   11,445   
                       
Net assets acquired $70,011  $21,795  $14,138  $30,137  $55,276   
                       
(1) Tax-deductible goodwill
                      

The following details the total intangible assets identified in the allocation of the purchase price at the respective acquisition dates:

(in thousands)Estimated Useful Life Great Lakes  Turbotec  Yorkshire  Howell 
          
Intangible asset type:         
Customer relationships20 years $20,273  $350  $10,699  $1,910 
Non-compete agreements3-5 years  2,269   90   4,504    
Patents and technology10-15 years  3,104   220       
Trade names and licenses5-10 years  2,453   220   1,055   410 
Other2-5 years  (631)     679    
                  
Total intangible assets  $27,468  $880  $16,937  $2,320 
                  
The results of operations of the acquired businesses were included in the Company’sCompany's Consolidated Financial Statements from their respective acquisition dates.
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2015 Disposition

On June 1, 2015, the Company sold certain assets.  Simultaneously, the Company entered into a lease agreement with the purchaser of the assets for their continued use for a period of approximately 22 months (Lease Period).

The purchasetotal sales price forwas $20.2 million, of which $5.0 million was received on June 1, 2015; the Company will receive $5.0 million on December 30, 2016 and the remaining $10.2 million will be received at the end of the Lease Period.  This transaction resulted in a pre-tax gain of $15.4 million in the second quarter of 2015, or 17 cents per diluted share after tax.  This gain was recognized in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.

The net book value of the assets disposed was $2.3 million.  For goodwill testing purposes, these acquisitions,assets were part of the SPD reporting unit, which is a component of the Company's Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  Because these assets met the definition of a business, $2.4 million of the SPD reporting unit's goodwill balance was financed by available cash balances, has been allocated to the assets and liabilitiesdisposal group.  The amount of goodwill allocated was based on the relative fair values of the acquired businesses based on their respective fair market values.asset group that was disposed and the portion of the SPD reporting unit that was retained.

2014 Dispositions

On November 21, 2014, the Company entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with Travis Perkins PLC to sell all of the outstanding capital stock of Mueller Primaflow Limited (Primaflow), the Company’sCompany's United Kingdom based plumbing and heating systems import distribution business, for approximately $24.9 million.  Primaflow, which serves markets in the United Kingdom and Ireland, was included in the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment and reported net sales of $57.5 million and after-tax net income of $4.4 million for the 2014 fiscal year.  The carrying value of the assets disposed totaled $25.3 million, consisting primarily of accounts receivable and inventories.  The carrying value of the liabilities disposed totaled $7.1 million, consisting primarily of accounts payable and other current liabilities.  In addition, the Company recognized a cumulative translation loss of $6.0 million.  The net gain on the sale of this business was immaterial to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

During November 2014, the Company sold its ABS plastic pipe manufacturing assets.  These assets had a carrying value of approximately $1.9 million and were part of the SPD reporting unit, which is a component of the Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  The sales price was $6.0 million, which resulted in a pre-tax gain of $4.1 million.

2013 Disposition

On August 9, 2013, the Company sold certain of its plastic fittings manufacturing assets located in Portage, Michigan and Ft. Pierce, Florida.  Simultaneously, the Company entered into a lease agreement with the purchaser of the assets to continue to manufacture and distribute Schedule 40 plastic fittings utilizing the Ft. Pierce assets for a period of approximately eight to 14 months (Transition Period).  The total salessale price was $66.2 million, of which $61.2 million was received on August 9, 2013; the remaining $5.0 million was received during the second quarter of 2014.  This transaction resulted in a pre-tax gain of $39.8 million in the third quarter of 2013, or 41 cents per diluted share after tax.

The net book value of the plastic fittings manufacturing assets disposed was $15.9 million.  For goodwill testing purposes, these assets were part of the SPD reporting unit, which is a component of the Company’sCompany's Plumbing & Refrigeration segment.  Because these assets met the definition of a business, in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, $10.5 million of the SPD reporting unit’sunit's goodwill balance was allocated to the disposal group.  The amount of goodwill allocated was based on the relative fair values of the asset group whichthat was disposed and the portion of the SPD reporting unit whichthat was retained.

The Company has continued to manufacture and supply plastic drain, waste, and vent (DWV) fittings, and extended its third party supply agreement to complement its product offering with purchased products it does not manufacture with the remaining assets.  This supply agreement was originally entered into after the majority of the Company’sCompany's plastic manufacturing assets were destroyed in the 2011 fire at its Wynne, Arkansas facility.

With the decision to cease the Company’sCompany's manufacturing operations in Portage, there was an evaluation of the remaining long-lived assets for impairment, and it was determined that the carrying values of the land and building were no longer recoverable.  An impairment charge of $3.2 million was recognized during the third quarter of 2013 to adjust the carrying values of the land and building to their estimated fair value.  The fair value estimate was determined by obtaining and evaluating recent sales data for similar assets (Level 2 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820)within the fair value hierarchy).  During March 2014, the land and building in Portage were sold for $4.7 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $1.4 million.


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Note 3 – Inventories

(In thousands) 2014 2013  2015  2014 
         
Raw materials and supplies $53,586  $54,613  $58,987  $53,586 
Work-in-process 39,707  43,796   25,161   39,707 
Finished goods  168,481   159,422   161,410   168,481 
Valuation reserves  (5,189)  (6,115)  (6,180)  (5,189)
             
Inventories $256,585 $251,716  $239,378  $256,585 

Inventories valued using the LIFO method totaled $27.6 million at December 26, 2015 and $25.9 million at December 27, 2014 and $34.9 million at December 28, 2013.2014.  At December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, the approximate FIFO cost of such inventories was $104.8$80.7 million and $117.9$104.8 million, respectively.  Additionally, the Company valuedvalues certain inventories purchased for resale on an average cost basis.  The value of those inventories was $48.8 million at December 26, 2015 and $47.7 million at December 27, 2014 and $54.7 million at December 28, 2013.
During 2011, inventory quantities valued using the LIFO method declined which resulted in liquidation of LIFO inventory layers.  This liquidation resulted from intercompany sales; therefore, the gain from the LIFO liquidation of approximately $8.0 million was deferred. During the first quarter of 2012, the Company sold this inventory to third parties and recognized the gain.  This recognition resulted in a reduction of approximately $8.0 million to cost of sales, or seven cents per diluted share after tax for 2012.2014.

At the end of 20142015 and 2013,2014, the FIFO value of inventory consigned to others was $3.7 million and $4.3 million.million, respectively.


Note 4 – Consolidated Financial Statement Details

Other Current Liabilities

Included in other current liabilities were accrued discounts and allowances of $46.6 million at December 26, 2015 and $45.3 million at December 27, 2014 and $43.2taxes payable of $10.3 million at December 28, 2013.26, 2015 and $0.9 million at December 27, 2014.

Other (Expense) Income, Net

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Gain on the sale of non-operating property $ $3,000 $  $  $  $3,000 
Interest income  573  906  847   1,029   573   906 
Environmental expense, non-operating properties (822) (823) (1,128)  (46)  (822)  (823)
Other  6  1,368  820   1,205   6   1,368 
                   
Other (expense) income, net $(243) $4,451 $539  $2,188  $(243) $4,451 



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Note 5 – Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net

(In thousands) 2014 2013  2015  2014 
         
Land and land improvements $12,198  $13,153  $13,046  $12,198 
Buildings 120,035 132,331   128,322   120,035 
Machinery and equipment 561,093 561,005   597,209   561,093 
Construction in progress  44,787  25,691   47,746   44,787 
             
 738,113 732,180   786,323   738,113 
Less accumulated depreciation  (492,203)  (487,723)  (506,099)  (492,203)
             
Property, plant, and equipment, net $245,910  $244,457  $280,224  $245,910 
             
Note 6 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:

(In thousands) Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment OEM Segment Total  Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  OEM Segment  Total 
             
Balance at December 29, 2012:       
Goodwill $141,684 $12,300 $153,984  $131,462   12,300   143,762 
Accumulated impairment and amortization  (39,434)  (9,971)  (49,405)
Accumulated impairment charges  (39,434)  (9,971)  (49,405)
                   
Balance at December 28, 2013:  92,028   2,329   94,357 
 102,250 2,329 104,579             
Additions(1)
  9,123      9,123 
Currency translation  (571)     (571)
            
Balance at December 27, 2014:   100,580   2,329   102,909 
                   
Additions 310  310   19,087   2,088   21,175 
Disposition (10,532)  (10,532)  (2,418)     (2,418)
Balance at December 28, 2013:       
Currency translation  (1,414)     (1,414)
Balance at December 26, 2015:            
Goodwill 131,462 12,300 143,762   155,269   14,388   169,657 
Accumulated impairment and amortization  (39,434)  (9,971)  (49,405)
       
 92,028 2,329 94,357 
       
Additions(1)
 9,123  9,123 
Currency translation (571)  (571)
Balance at December 27, 2014:       
Goodwill 140,014 12,300 152,314 
Accumulated impairment and amortization  (39,434)  (9,971)  (49,405)
Accumulated impairment charges  (39,434)  (9,971)  (49,405)
                   
Goodwill, net $100,580 $2,329 $102,909  $115,835  $4,417  $120,252 
                   
(1) Includes finalization of the purchase price allocation adjustment for Howell of $1.0 million
(1) Includes finalization of the purchase price allocation adjustment for Howell of $1.0 million
 
(1) Includes finalization of the purchase price allocation adjustment for Howell of $1.0 million
 

In 2013,Reporting units with recorded goodwill include SPD, Great Lakes, European Operations, Westermeyer (reported in the CompanyEPD operating segment), and Turbotec (reported in the EPD operating segment).  Several factors give rise to goodwill in the Company's acquisitions, such as the expected benefit from synergies of the combination and the existing workforce of the acquired Howell.  Of the $55.3 million purchase price, $1.3 million was allocated to goodwill.  In 2014, the Company acquired Yorkshire.  Of the $30.1 million purchase price, $8.1 million was allocated to goodwill.

As discussed in Note 2, $10.5 million of goodwill relating to the SPD reporting unit was disposed of in 2013 in conjunction with the sale of a business.

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There were no impairment charges resulting from the 2015, 2014, or 2013 or 2012annual impairment tests as the estimated fair value of each of the reporting units exceeded theits carrying value.  
 
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Other Intangible Assets

The gross and net book value of other intangible assets included in other assets was $7.8 million and $5.5 million, respectively, at December 28, 2013.  26, 2015 was as follows:

 
(In thousands)
 Gross Carrying Amount  Accumulated Amortization  Net Carrying Amount 
       
Customer relationships $30,882  $(1,488) $29,394 
Non-compete agreements  6,534   (2,838)  3,696 
Patents and technology  9,798   (5,323)  4,475 
Trade names and licenses  4,160   (574)  3,586 
Other  213   (728)  (515)
             
Other intangible assets $51,587  $(10,951) $40,636 
             
The carrying amount of intangible assets at December 27, 2014 was as follows:

 
(In thousands)
Estimated Useful Life Gross Carrying Amount  Accumulated Amortization  Net Carrying Amount 
           
Customer relationships20 years $11,852  $(526) $11,326 
Non-compete agreements3-5 years  4,495   (1,307)  3,188 
Patents and technology10 years  6,852   (4,744)  2,108 
Trade names and licenses3 years  1,670   (252)  1,418 
Other2-5 years  877   (453)  424 
              
Other intangible assets  $25,746  $(7,282) $18,464 
              
With the acquisition of Howell in 2013, $2.3 million of the purchase price was allocated to other intangible assets relating to trade names and customer relationships.  During 2014, the purchase price allocation, including fair value adjustments, was finalized.  With the acquisition of Yorkshire in 2014, $16.9 million of the purchase price was allocated to other intangible assets.  This included customer relationships, non-compete agreements, and trade names and licenses.  The remaining change was related to currency translation.

 
(In thousands)
 Gross Carrying Amount  Accumulated Amortization  Net Carrying Amount 
       
Customer relationships $11,852  $(526) $11,326 
Non-compete agreements  4,495   (1,307)  3,188 
Patents and technology  6,852   (4,744)  2,108 
Trade names and licenses  1,670   (252)  1,418 
Other  877   (453)  424 
             
Other intangible assets $25,746  $(7,282) $18,464 
             
Amortization expense for intangible assets was $3.2$4.1 million in 2015, $3.5 million in 2014, $0.9and $1.4 million in 2013, and $0.7 million in 2012.2013.  Future amortization expense is estimated as follows:

(In thousands) Amount  Amount 
     
2015 $3,412 
2016 2,519  $4,296 
2017 1,334   3,014 
2018 1,079   2,709 
2019 1,011   2,647 
2020  2,480 
Thereafter  9,109   25,490 
       
Expected amortization expense $18,464  $40,636 
       
 
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Note 7 – Equity Method Investment

During the third quarter of 2015, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with affiliates of Atlas Holdings LLC to form the Joint Venture, which simultaneously entered into a definitive merger agreement with MA Industrial Sub, Inc. and Tecumseh to commence a cash tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Tecumseh.  On September 21, 2015, the tender offer and back-end merger was completed and Mueller contributed $65.9 million for a 50 percent ownership interest in the Joint Venture.  Tecumseh is a global manufacturer of hermetically sealed compressors for residential and specialty air conditioning, household refrigerators and freezers, and commercial refrigeration applications, including air conditioning and refrigeration compressors, as well as condensing units, heat pumps, and complete refrigeration systems.
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The Company accounts for this investment using the equity method of accounting, and the total investment, including net tangible assets, identifiable intangible assets, and goodwill, is classified as the investment in unconsolidated affiliate on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The following tables present summarized financial information derived from the Company's equity method investee's consolidated financial statements, which are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  The Company records its proportionate share of the investee's net income one quarter in arrears as equity in earnings of the unconsolidated affiliate in the Consolidated Statements of Income.  As such, the balances shown below are as of September 30, 2015.  The allocation of the Joint Venture's purchase price is provisional as of December 26, 2015 and therefore subject to change upon final valuation of assets and review of working capital.  Changes to the final purchase price allocation could impact the Company's accounting for its equity method investment in the Joint Venture.

(In thousands)2015 
  
Balance sheet data: 
Current assets $251,389 
Noncurrent assets  112,156 
Current liabilities  178,784 
Noncurrent liabilities  63,643 
     
Note 8 – Debt
 
(In thousands) 2014 2013  2015  2014 
         
Term Loan Facility with interest at 1.53%, due 2017 $200,000 $200,000 
Mueller-Xingrong credit facility with interest at 5.60%, due 2015 29,968 28,033 
2001 Series IRB’s with interest at 1.13%, due through 2021 6,250 7,250 
Term Loan Facility with interest at 2.66%, due 2017 $200,000  $200,000 
Mueller-Xingrong credit facility with interest at 5.60%, due 2016  5,275   29,968 
2001 Series IRB's with interest at 1.23%, due through 2021  5,250   6,250 
Other  5,226  50   5,485   5,226 
             
 241,444 235,333   216,010   241,444 
Less current portion of debt  (36,194)  (29,083)  (11,760)  (36,194)
             
Long-term debt $205,250  $206,250  $204,250  $205,250 
     
Effective May 29, 2014, the Company elected to modify its
The Company's credit agreement (the Credit Agreement) entered into on March 7, 2011 to reduce theprovides for an unsecured $350.0$200.0 million revolving credit facility to $200.0 million.  The(the Revolving Credit Agreement also provides forFacility) and a $200.0 million Term Loan Facility, which, together with the Revolving Loan Facility, mature onterm loan facility, both maturing December 11, 2017.  Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company’sCompany's option, at LIBOR or Base Rate as defined by the Credit Agreement, plus a variable premium.  LIBOR advances may be based upon the one, three, or six-month LIBOR.  The variable premium is based upon the Company’sCompany's debt to total capitalization ratio, and can range from 112.5 to 162.5 basis points for LIBOR basedLIBOR-based loans and 12.5 to 62.5 basis points for Base Rate loans.  At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the premium was 137.5 basis points for LIBORLIBOR-based loans and 37.5 basis points for Base Rate loans.  Additionally, a facility fee is payable quarterly on the total commitment and varies from 25.0 to 37.5 basis points based upon the Company’sCompany's debt to total capitalization ratio.  Availability of funds under the Revolving Credit Facility is reduced by the amount of certain outstanding letters of credit, which are used to secure the Company’sCompany's payment of insurance deductibles and certain retiree health benefits, totaling approximately $10.5$8.8 million at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.  Terms of the letters of credit are generally one year but are renewable annually.  There were no borrowings outstanding on the Revolving Credit Facility at the end of 2014.
On March 21, 2014, Mueller Europe, Limited (MEL) entered into a credit agreement (the Invoice Facility) establishing a total borrowing capacity of £40.0 million, or approximately $62.2 million.  The Invoice Facility has an initial term of two years.  Borrowings outstanding under the Invoice Facility are secured by MEL’s trade account receivables denominated in British pounds which totaled $57.9 million at December 27, 2014.  There were no borrowings outstanding at the end of 2014.2015.

On September 23, 2013, Mueller-Xingrong entered into a secured revolving credit facility (the JV Credit Agreement), which matured on September 24, 2014.  At the maturity date, individual draws on the JV Credit Agreement had maturity dates ranging up to nine months.  Borrowings under the JV Credit Agreement bear an interest rate at the latest base-lending rate published by the People’s Bank of China, which was 5.6 percent at December 27, 2014.  On February 2, 2015, Mueller-Xingrong entered into a new secured revolving credit agreement with a total borrowing capacity of RMB 230 million (or approximately $37.1$36.0 million).  In addition, Mueller-Xingrong occasionally finances working capital through various accounts receivable and bank draft discount arrangements.  Total borrowings at Mueller-Xingrong were $35.2$10.8 million at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.

Covenants contained in the Company’sCompany's financing obligations require, among other things, the maintenance of minimum levels of tangible net worth and the satisfaction of certain minimum financial ratios.  At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.


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Aggregate annual maturities of the Company’sCompany's debt are as follows:

(In thousands) Amount  Amount 
     
2015 $36,194 
2016 1,000  $11,760 
2017 201,000   201,000 
2018 1,000   1,000 
2019 1,000   1,000 
2020  1,000 
Thereafter  1,250   250 
       
Long-term debt $241,444  $216,010 
   

Net interest expense consisted of the following:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Interest expense $ 6,393 $ 5,147 $ 6,890  $8,335  $6,393  $5,147 
Capitalized interest  (653)  (1,157)     (668)  (653)  (1,157)
                   
 $5,740 $3,990 $6,890  $7,667  $5,740  $3,990 

Interest paid in 2015, 2014, and 2013 and 2012 was $8.1 million, $5.7 million, $4.9 million, and $8.4$4.9 million, respectively.


Note 89 – Commitments and Contingencies

Environmental

The Company is subject to environmental standards imposed by federal, state, local, and foreign environmental laws and regulations.  For all properties, the Company has provided and charged to expense $0.1 million in 2015, $1.2 million in 2014, and $1.0 million in 2013 and $3.1 million in 2012 for pending environmental matters.  Environmental costs related to non-operating properties are classified as a component of other income, net and costs related to operating properties are classified as cost of goods sold.  Environmental reserves totaled $21.7 million at December 26, 2015 and $22.7 million at December 27, 2014 and $23.6 million at December 28, 2013.2014.  As of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company expects to spend $0.6 million in 2016, $0.6 million in 2017, $0.6 million in 2018, $0.7 million in 2015, $0.8 million in 2016,2019, $0.7 million in 2017, $0.7 million in 2018, $0.8 million in 2019,2020, and $9.4$18.5 million thereafter for ongoing projects.  The timing of a potential payment for a $9.5 million settlement offer related to the Southeast Kansas Sites has not yet been determined.  

Non-operating Properties

Southeast Kansas Sites

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has contacted the Company regarding environmental contamination at three former smelter sites in Kansas (Altoona, Iola and East La Harpe)Harpe, and Lanyon)While theThe Company believes that legally it is not a successor to the companies that operated these smelter sites, itbut is discussingexploring possible settlement with KDHE and other potentially responsible parties (PRP) in order to avoid litigation.  In 2008, the Company established a reserve of $9.5 million for this matter.  Another PRP has conducted a site investigation of the Altoona site under a consent decree with KDHE.KDHE and submitted a removal site evaluation report recommending a remedy.  The remedial plan, which covers both on-site and certain off-site cleanup costs, was approved by the agency in 2015.  At the East La Harpe site, the Company and two other PRPs have conducted a site study evaluation of the East La Harpe site under KDHE supervision, prepared a site cleanup plan approved by KDHE in 2015, and are now discussing sharing the costs of a possible cleanup.  The EPA is inAdditionally, during 2015 the early stagesCompany, with the assistance of studyan independent environmental consultant, estimated on-site cleanup costs for the Lanyon Site.  As a result, the Company updated its estimate and remediation in the vicinitydecreased its reserve for its proportionate share of the Iola site, which it addedremediation of the Southeast Kansas Sites from $9.5 million to the National Priority List (NPL)$5.6 million in May, 2013 as the “Former United Zinc & Associated Smelters” site.  The NPL is a list of priority sites where the EPA has determined that there has been a release2015, or threatened release of hazardous substances that warrant investigation and, if appropriate, remedial action.  The NPL does not assign liability to any party including the owner or operator of a property placed on the NPL. four cents per diluted share after tax.

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Shasta Area Mine Sites

Mining Remedial Recovery Company (MRRC), a wholly owned subsidiary, owns certain inactive mines in Shasta County, California.  MRRC has continued a program, begun in the late 1980s, of sealing mine portals with concrete plugs in mine adits, which were discharging water.  The sealing program achieved significant reductions in the metal load in discharges from these adits; however, additional reductions are required pursuant to an order issued by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board (QCB).  In response to a 1996 QCB Order, issued by the QCB, MRRC completed a feasibility study in 1997 describing measures designed to mitigate the effects of acid rock drainage.  In December 1998, the QCB modified the 1996 order extending MRRC’sMRRC's time to comply with water quality standards.  In September 2002, the QCB adopted a new order requiring MRRC to adopt Best Management Practices (BMP) to control discharges of acid mine drainage.  That orderdrainage, and again extended the time to comply with water quality standards until September 2007.  During that time, implementation of BMP further reduced impacts of acid rock drainage; however, full compliance has not been achieved.  The QCB is presently renewing MRRC’sMRRC's discharge permit and will concurrently issue a new order.  It is expected that the new ten-year permit will include an order requiring continued implementation of BMP through 2025 to address residual discharges of acid rock drainage.  During 2015, the Company revised its future cost estimate for the remediation of this site from 20 to 30 years in order to correspond with similar studies for other sites.  As a result of this change, the Company increased its reserve for the remediation of the Shasta Area Mine Sites from $10.5 million to $13.3 million in 2015, or three cents per diluted share after tax.  At this site, MRRC spent approximately $1.7$1.3 million from 20122013 through 20142015 and currently estimates that it will spend between approximately $10.5$13.3 million and $13.0$20.1 million over the next 2030 years.

Lead Refinery Site

U.S.S. Lead Refinery, Inc. (Lead Refinery), a non-operating wholly owned subsidiary of Mining Remedial Recovery Company,MRRC, has conducted corrective action and interim remedial activities and studies (collectively, Site Activities) at Lead Refinery’sRefinery's East Chicago, Indiana site pursuant to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.Act since December 1996.  Although the Site Activities which began in December 1996, have been substantially concluded.concluded,  Lead Refinery is required to perform monitoring and maintenancemaintenance-related activities with respect to Site Activities pursuant to a post-closure permit issued by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management effective as of March 2, 2013.  Lead Refinery spent approximately $0.2 million in 2015 and $0.1 million annually in 2014 2013 and 20122013 with respect to this site.  Approximate costs to comply with the post-closure permit, including associated general and administrative costs, are estimated at between $1.9$2.1 million and $3.6$5.8 million over the next 2021 years.
 
On April 9, 2009, pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), the EPAU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) added the Lead Refinery site and properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site,properties to the NPL.National Priorities List.  On July 17, 2009, Lead Refinery received a written notice from the EPA indicating that the agency is of the view that Lead Refineryit may be a PRP under CERCLA in connection withdue to the release or threat of release of hazardous substances including lead into properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site.  The EPA has identified two other PRPs in connection with the release or threat of release of hazardous substances into properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site.matter.  In November 2012, the EPA adopted a remedy in connection withfor the surrounding properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site.  Inand in September 2014, the EPA announced that it had entered into a settlement with the two other PRPs whereby they will pay approximately $26.0 million to fund the cleanup of approximately 300 properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site.site and perform certain remedial action tasks.

In 2015, the EPA conducted a review of the Company's records for the purpose of identifying parties to pay for the investigation and cleanup of properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site in connection with the November 2012 remedy.  The EPA has not contacted Lead Refinery regarding settlement of the agency’sagency's potential claims related to the properties surrounding the Lead Refinery site.

As of December 27, 2014, the EPA has not conducted an investigation of the Lead Refinery site, proposed remedies for the Lead Refinery site, or informed Lead Refinery that it is a PRP at the Lead Refinery site.  The Company is unable to determine the likelihood of a material adverse outcome or the amount or range of a potential loss with respect to placement of the Lead Refinery site and adjacent properties on the NPL.  Lead Refinery lacks the financial resources needed to undertake any investigations or remedial action that may be required by the EPA pursuant to CERCLA.

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Operating Properties

Mueller Copper Tube Products, Inc.

In 1999, Mueller Copper Tube Products, Inc. (MCTP), a wholly owned subsidiary, commenced a cleanup and remediation of soil and groundwater at its Wynne, Arkansas plant.  MCTP is currently removingplant to remove trichloroethylene, a cleaning solvent formerly used by MCTP, from the soil and groundwater.MCTP.  On August 30, 2000, MCTP received approval of its Final Comprehensive Investigation Report and Storm Water Drainage Investigation Report addressing the treatment of soils and groundwater from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).  The Company established a reserve for this project in connection with the acquisition of MCTP in 1998.  Effective November 17, 2008, MCTP entered into a Settlement Agreement and Administrative Order by Consent to submit a Supplemental Investigation Work Plan (SIWP) and subsequent Final Remediation Work Plan (RWP) for the site.  By letter dated January 20, 2010, ADEQ approved the SIWP as submitted, with changes acceptable to the Company.  On December 16, 2011, MCTP entered into an amended Administrative Order by Consent to prepare and implement a revised Remediation Work PlanRWP regarding final remediation for the Site.  Construction and installation of the remediation system is under way.  The remediation system was activated in February 2014.  Costs to implement the work plans, including associated general and administrative costs, are approximately $0.8$0.7 million to $1.3$1.1 million over the next tennine years.

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United States Department of Commerce Antidumping Review

On December 24, 2008, the Department of Commerce (DOC) initiated an antidumping administrative review of the antidumping duty order covering circular welded non-alloy steel pipe and tube from Mexico for the November 1, 2007  through October 31, 2008 period of review.  The DOC selected Mueller Comercial as a respondent in the review.  On April 19, 2010, the DOC published the final results of the review and assigned Mueller Comercial an antidumping duty rate of 48.33 percent.  On May 25, 2010, the Company appealed the final results to the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT).  On December 16, 2011, the CIT issued a decision remanding the Department's final results.  While the matter was still pending, the Company and the United States reached an agreement to settle the appeal.  Subject to the conditions of the agreement, the Company anticipated that certain of its subsidiaries will incur antidumping duties on subject imports made during the period of review and, as such, established a reserve for this matter.  After the lapse of the statutory period of time during which U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) was required, but failed, to liquidate the entries at the settled rate, the Company released the reserve.  Between October 30, 2015 and November 27, 2015, CBP sent a series of invoices to Southland Pipe Nipples Co., Inc. (Southland), requesting payment of $3.0 million in duties and interest in connection with 795 import entries made during the November 1, 2007 through October 31, 2008 period.  On January 26, 2016 and January 27, 2016, Southland filed protests with CBP in connection with these bills, noting that CBP's asserted claims were not made in accordance with applicable law, including statutory provisions governing deemed liquidation. The Company believes in the merits of the legal objections raised in Southland's protests, and CBP's response to Southland's protests is currently pending. Given the procedural posture of and issued raised by this legal dispute, the Company cannot estimate the amount of potential duty liability, if any, that may result from CBP's asserted claims.

On December 23, 2009, the DOC initiated an antidumping administrative review of the antidumping duty order covering circular welded non-alloy steel pipe and tube from Mexico for the November 1, 2008  through October 31, 2009 period of review.  The DOC selected Mueller Comercial as a respondent in the review.  On June 21, 2011, the DOC published the final results of the review and assigned Mueller Comercial an antidumping duty rate of 19.8 percent.  On August 22, 2011, the Company appealed the final results to the CIT.  On December 21, 2012, the CIT issued a decision upholding the Department’sDepartment's final results in part.  The CIT issued its final judgment on May 2, 2013.  On May 6, 2013, the Company appealed the CIT decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Federal Circuit).  On May 29, 2014, the Federal Circuit issued its decision vacating the CIT’sCIT's decision and remanding the case back to DOC to reconsider the Company’sCompany's rate.  The Company and the United States have reached an agreement to settle the appeal.  TheSubject to the conditions of the agreement, the Company anticipatesanticipated that certain of its subsidiaries will incur antidumping duties on subject imports made during the period of review and, as such, established a reserve of approximately $1.1 million for this matter.  The Company has paid all requested bills covering the 2008-2009 period where it appears that CBP acted in a timely manner under the antidumping statute.  In connection with certain entries that the Company believes CBP failed to liquidate in a timely manner, the Company has protested the liquidations and requested that they be cancelled along with the related bills for increased duties.
 
Subsequent to October 31, 2009, Mueller Comercial did not ship subject merchandise to the United States.  Therefore, there is zero anticipated antidumping duty liability with respect to the subject merchandise for periods of review after October 31, 2009.
 
Leases

The Company leases certain facilities, vehicles, and equipment under operating leases expiring on various dates through 2019.2028.  The lease payments under these agreements aggregate to approximately $6.2 million in 2015, $3.9$7.8 million in 2016, $2.6$5.7 million in 2017, $2.1$4.7 million in 2018, and $0.4$2.2 million in 2019.2019, $1.6 million in 2020, and $6.9 million thereafter.  Total lease expense amounted to $9.7 million in 2015, $9.8 million in 2014, and $9.1 million in 2013, and $8.5 million in 2012.2013.

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Consulting Agreement

During 2004, the Company entered into a consulting and non-compete agreement (the Consulting Agreement) with Mr. Harvey L. Karp, at that time Chairman of the Board.  The Consulting Agreement provides for post-employment services to be provided by Mr. Karp for a six-year period.  During the first four years of the Consulting Agreement, an annual fee equal to two-thirds of the executive’sexecutive's Final Base Compensation (as defined in the Consulting Agreement) is payable.  During the final two years, the annual fee is set at one-third of the executive’sexecutive's Final Base Compensation.  During the term of the Consulting Agreement, Mr. Karp agrees not to engage in Competitive Activity (as defined in the Consulting Agreement) and is entitled to receive certain other benefits from the Company.  

On November 3, 2011, Mr. Karp notified the Company that he would resign as Chairman of the Company and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Company effective as of December 31, 2011.  Following his resignation, on January 1, 2012, the Consulting Agreement commenced.  Based upon the value of the non-compete provisions of the Consulting Agreement, the Company expenses the value of the Consulting Agreement over its term.  The maximum amount payable under the remaining term of the Consulting Agreement is $2.7$1.3 million.

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Other

In July 2009, there was an explosion at the Company’s copper tube facility in Fulton, Mississippi, resulting in damage to certain production equipment.  In 2010, the Company recorded a gain of $1.5 million related to the property damage claim.  In 2012, the Company settled the business interruption portion of this claim and recognized a $1.5 million gain.

In September 2011, a portion of the Company’sCompany's Wynne, Arkansas manufacturing operation was damaged by fire.  Certain inventories, production equipment, and building structures were extensively damaged.  During 2013, the Company settled the claim with its insurer for total proceeds of $127.3 million, net of the deductible of $0.5 million.  As a result of the settlement with its insurer, all proceeds received and all costs previously deferred (which were recorded as other current liabilities in prior periods) were recognized, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $106.3 million in 2013, or $1.17 per diluted share after tax.  The Company received proceeds of $62.3 million and $55.0 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

In October 2012, the Company settled a lawsuit against a former supplier.  In connection with the settlement, the Company received a $5.8 million cash payment which is recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Income net of legal costs.
Additionally, the Company is involved in certain litigation as a result of claims that arose in the ordinary course of business, which management believes will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’sCompany's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.  It may also realize the benefit of certain legal claims and litigation in the future; these gain contingencies are not recognized in the Consolidated Financial Statements.


Note 910 – Income Taxes

The components of income before income taxes were taxed under the following jurisdictions:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Domestic $135,445 $262,220 $105,945  $121,614  $135,445  $262,220 
Foreign  12,568  9,178  14,409   10,175   12,568   9,178 
                   
Income before income taxes $148,013 $271,398 $120,354  $131,789  $148,013  $271,398 
                   




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Income tax expense consists of the following:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Current tax expense:             
Federal $45,723 $69,565 $33,152  $50,272  $45,723  $69,565 
Foreign 2,346 2,608 1,764   4,042   2,346   2,608 
State and local  3,905  6,723  3,049   4,886   3,905   6,723 
                   
Current tax expense  51,974  78,896  37,965   59,200   51,974   78,896 
                   
Deferred tax (benefit) expense:                   
Federal (2,469) 17,694  570   (13,739)  (2,469)  17,694 
Foreign 890  (376) (2,015)  (1,180)  890   (376)
State and local  (4,916)  1,895  161   (899)  (4,916)  1,895 
                   
Deferred tax (benefit) expense  (6,495)  19,213   (1,284)  (15,818)  (6,495)  19,213 
                   
Income tax expense $45,479 $98,109 $36,681  $43,382  $45,479  $98,109 
                   
No provision is made for U.S. income taxes applicable to undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are indefinitely reinvested in foreign operations.  It is not practicable to compute the potential deferred tax liability associated with these undistributed foreign earnings.  The Company has approximately $75.0$81.0 million of undistributed foreign earnings for which it has not recorded deferred tax liabilities.
 
The difference between the reported income tax expense and a tax determined by applying the applicable U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to income before income taxes is reconciled as follows:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Expected income tax expense $51,805 $94,989 $42,124  $46,126  $51,805  $94,989 
State and local income tax, net of federal benefit 3,355 6,405 3,178   2,673   3,355   6,405 
Effect of foreign statutory rate different from U.S. and other foreign adjustments (1,094) (1,026) (2,637)  (654)  (1,094)  (1,026)
Valuation allowance changes (5,732)   (1,224)     (5,732)   
U.S. production activities deduction (4,025) (4,445) (2,975)  (3,500)  (4,025)  (4,445)
Goodwill disposition  1,790    646      1,790 
Tax contingency changes   (140) (3,224)        (140)
Permanent adjustment to deferred tax liabilities  (4,218)      
Other, net  1,170  536  1,439   2,309   1,170   536 
                   
Income tax expense $45,479 $98,109 $36,681  $43,382  $45,479  $98,109 
       

During 2015, the Company had an adjustment to a deferred tax liability of $4.2 million, or seven cents per diluted share, resulting from the acquisition of a foreign subsidiary.

During 2014, the Company released a valuation allowance of $5.7 million, or ten cents per diluted share, related to certain state income tax credits.  As a result of legislative changes enacted in 2014, the Company now expects to be able to use such credits within the foreseeable future.  During 2012, the Company released a valuation allowance of $1.2 million, or two cents per diluted share, due to the expectation that certain state tax attributes would be utilized.
 
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The following summarizes the activity related to the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits:

(In thousands) 2014  2013 
       
Beginning balance $2,828  $3,259 
Increases related to prior year tax positions      
Increases related to current year tax positions      
Decreases related to prior year tax positions  (2,828)   
Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities     (431)
Decreases due to lapses in the statute of limitations      
         
Ending balance $  $2,828 

The $2.8 million reduction of unrecognized tax benefits in 2014 had no impact on the effective tax rate.  The Company includes interest and penalties related to income tax matters as a component of income tax expense.  The net reduction to income tax expense related to penalties and interest was immaterial in 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012.2013.

The Internal Revenue Service is currently auditing the Company's 2013 tax return and completed its audit of the Company’sCompany's 2012 tax return during 2014, the result of which was immaterial to the Consolidated Financial Statements.consolidated financial statements.  The Company is currently under audit in various other jurisdictions.


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The statute of limitations is still open for the Company’sCompany's federal tax return and most state income tax returns for 20112012 and all subsequent years.  The statutes of limitations for certain state and foreign returns are also open for some earlier tax years due to differing statute periods.  While the Company believes that it is adequately reserved for possible audit adjustments, the final resolution of these examinations cannot be determined with certainty and could result in final settlements that differ from current estimates.

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

(In thousands) 2014  2013 
       
Deferred tax assets:      
Inventories $12,815  $11,136 
Other postretirement benefits and accrued items  14,550   13,548 
Pension  4,792    
Other reserves  10,262   12,931 
Federal and foreign tax attributes  6,451   5,913 
State tax attributes, net of federal benefit  22,928   24,663 
Share-based compensation  3,016   2,486 
         
Total deferred tax assets  74,814   70,677 
Less valuation allowance  (17,119)  (22,544)
         
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance  57,695   48,133 
         
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Property, plant, and equipment  57,089   60,425 
Pension     4,507 
Other  1,721   2,209 
         
Total deferred tax liabilities  58,810   67,141 
         
Net deferred tax liability $(1,115) $(19,008)
         
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(In thousands) 2015  2014 
     
Deferred tax assets:    
Inventories $14,802  $12,815 
Other postretirement benefits and accrued items  15,294   14,550 
Pension  2,349   4,792 
Other reserves  9,823   10,262 
Federal and foreign tax attributes  7,403   6,451 
State tax attributes, net of federal benefit  21,716   22,928 
Share-based compensation  3,397   3,016 
         
Total deferred tax assets  74,784   74,814 
Less valuation allowance  (17,650)  (17,119)
         
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance  57,134   57,695 
         
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Property, plant, and equipment  43,592   57,089 
Other  1,546   1,721 
         
Total deferred tax liabilities  45,138   58,810 
         
Net deferred tax asset (liability) $11,996  $(1,115)
         
 
As of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, after consideration of the federal impact, the Company had state income tax credit carryforwards of $4.1$3.3 million, all of which expire by 2017,2018, and other state income tax credit carryforwards of $11.1$10.1 million with unlimited lives.  The Company had state net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards with potential tax benefits of $7.8$8.4 million expiring between 2017 and 2029.2030.  The state tax credit and NOL carryforwards are offset by valuation allowances totaling $11.8$11.6 million.

As of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company had federal and foreign tax attributes with potential tax benefits of $6.4$7.3 million of which $4.5 million hashave an unlimited life and $1.9 million expire from 2015 to 2019.life.  These attributes were offset by valuation allowances of $3.4$3.7 million.

The change in the valuation allowance was primarily related to the release of the $5.7 million valuation allowance related to the state income tax credits as a result of 2014 legislative changes.  The remainder of the change had no material impact on the effective tax rate.

Income taxes paid were approximately $49.9 million in 2015, $47.3 million in 2014, and $80.1 million in 2013, and $38.4 million in 2012.2013.


Note 1011 – Equity

The Company’sCompany's Board of Directors has extended, until October 2015,2016, its authorization to repurchase up to 20 million shares of the Company’sCompany's common stock through open market transactions or through privately negotiated transactions.  The Company has no obligation to purchase any shares and may cancel, suspend, or extend the time period for the purchase of shares at any time.  Any purchases will be funded primarily through existing cash and cash from operations.  The Company may hold any shares purchased in treasury or use a portion of the repurchased shares for its stock-based compensation plans, as well as for other corporate purposes.  From its initial authorization in 1999 through December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company hadhas repurchased approximately 4.7 million shares under this authorization.
The Company entered into an agreement with Leucadia National Corporation (Leucadia) pursuant to which the Company repurchased from Leucadia 20.8 million shares of the Company’s common stock on September 24, 2012 at a total cost of $427.3 million.  The Company’s repurchase transaction with Leucadia was completed outside of the repurchase authorization previously approved by the Board of Directors.


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Note 1112 – Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has in effect stock incentive plans under which stock-based awards have been granted to certain employees and members of its Board of Directors.  Under these existing plans, the Company may grant options to purchase shares of common stock at prices not less than the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant, as well as restricted stock awards.  Generally, the awards vest annually over a five-year period beginning one year from the date of grant.  Any unexercised options expire after not more than ten years.  

In May 2014, the Company’sCompany's stockholders approved the 2014 Incentive Plan (2014 Plan).  The 2014 Plan authorizes the award of stock-based incentives to employees and non-employee directors.  Awards include options to purchase stock at specified prices during specified time periods, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, and performance awards, including cash awards.  The 2014 Plan reserved 1.5 million shares of common stock which may be issued or transferred upon the exercise of options.

During the years ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012, the Company recognized stock-based compensation, as a component of selling, general, and administrative expense, in its Consolidated Statements of Income of $6.2 million, $6.3 million, $5.7 million, and $4.0$5.7 million, respectively.  The tax benefit from the exercise of share-based awards was $1.0 million in 2015, $0.8 million in 2014, and $0.7 million in 2013, and $2.6 million in 2012.2013.

On October 26, 2012, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) resigned.  In connection with the resignation, on November 7, 2012, the Company entered into a separation agreement with its former CFO.  Included in the separation agreement were provisions to allow (i) continued vesting of options to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock and unvested shares of restricted stock previously granted and (ii) continued exercisability of vested options through the later of the original expiration date or October 30, 2015 without regard to service.  This modification to remove the service condition resulted in the recognition of $2.1 million of compensation cost on the modification date which is included in severance expense in the 2012 Consolidated Statement of Income.

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Stock Options
The fair value of each option is estimated as a single award and amortized into compensation expense on a straight-line or accrual basis over its vesting period based on its vesting schedule.  The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $7.58, $9.00, and 2012 was $9.00, $8.77, and $7.45, respectively.

The Company estimates the fair value of all stock option awards as of the grant date by applying the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model.  The use of this valuation model in the determination of compensation expense involves certain assumptions that are judgmental and/or highly sensitive including the expected life of the option, stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate, and dividend yield.  Additionally, forfeitures are estimated at the time of valuation and reduce expense ratably over the vesting period.  The forfeiture rate, which is adjusted periodically based on actual forfeitures, was 16.1 percent in 2015 and 16.4 percent in 2014 and 16.5 percent in 2012.2014.  Due to the nature of the awards granted in 2013, a forfeiture rate was not considered necessary.  The weighted average of key assumptions used in determining the fair value of options granted and a discussion of the methodology used to develop each assumption are as follows:
 
 2014 2013 2012  2015 2014 2013 
              
Expected term 5.6 years  5.9 years  6.5 years  5.5 years  5.6 years  5.9 years 
Expected price volatility  34.3%   39.7%   37.5%   26.2%   34.3%   39.7% 
Risk-free interest rate  1.7%   0.7%   0.7%   1.7%   1.7%   0.7% 
Dividend yield  1.0%   0.9%   0.9%   0.9%   1.0%   0.9% 

Expected term – This is the period of time estimated based on historical experience over which the options granted are expected to remain outstanding.  An increase in the expected term will increase compensation expense.

Expected price volatility – This is a measure of the amount by which a price has fluctuated or is expected to fluctuate.  The Company uses actual historical changes in the market value of its stock to calculate the volatility assumption.  Daily market value changes from the date of grant over a past period representative of the expected term of the options are used.  An increase in the expected price volatility rate will increase compensation expense.

Risk-free interest rate – This is the U.S. Treasury rate for the week of the grant, having a term representative of the expected term of the options.  An increase in the risk-free rate will increase compensation expense.

Dividend yield – This rate is the annual dividends per share as a percentage of the Company’sCompany's stock price.  An increase in the dividend yield will decrease compensation expense.

The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $3.1 million, $3.5 million, and $2.9 million in 2015, 2014, and $12.1 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.  The total fair value of options that vested was $0.8 million, $1.0 million, and $1.1 million in 2015, 2014, and $1.7 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
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At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the aggregate intrinsic value of all outstanding options was $18.2$10.1 million with a weighted average remaining contractual term of 5.15.3 years.  Of the outstanding options, 795789 thousand are currently exercisable with an aggregate intrinsic value of $15.1$9.9 million, a weighted average exercise price of $15.07,$15.82, and a weighted average remaining contractual term of 4.03.7 years.  

The total compensation expense not yet recognized related to unvested options at December 27, 201426, 2015 was $1.4$1.9 million with an average expense recognition period of 3.03.1 years.

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Restricted Stock Awards

The fair value of each restricted stock award equals the fair value of the Company’sCompany's stock on the grant date and is amortized into compensation expense on a straight-line or accrual basis over its vesting period based on its vesting schedule.  The weighted average grant-date fair value of awards granted during 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $32.54, $28.80, and 2012 was $28.80, $28.32, and $21.42, respectively.

The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and unvested awards was $24.7$19.9 million at December 27, 2014.26, 2015.  Total compensation expense for restricted stock awards not yet recognized was $13.3$14.4 million with an average expense recognition period of 3.63.3 years.  The total fair value of awards that vested was $4.8 million, $4.2 million, and $1.8 million in 2015, 2014, and $1.7 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

The Company generally issues treasury shares when options are exercised or restricted stock awards are granted.  A summary of the activity and related information follows:

 Stock Options  Restricted Stock Awards  Stock Options  Restricted Stock Awards 
(Shares in thousands)
 Shares  Weighted Average Exercise Price  Shares  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value  Shares  Weighted Average Exercise Price  Shares  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 
                    
Outstanding at December 28, 2013  1,177  $14.67   732  $21.75 
Outstanding at December 27, 2014  1,127  $17.38   727  $25.21 
Granted  202   28.79   197   28.80   223   32.59   193   32.54 
Exercised  (231)  13.20   (200)  21.00   (149)  13.95   (214)  22.49 
Forfeited  (21)  21.22   (2)  28.28   (3)  30.61   (1)  28.28 
                                
Outstanding at December 27, 2014  1,127   17.38   727   25.21 
Outstanding at December 26, 2015  1,198   20.59   705   28.08 
                                
Approximately 1.61.1 million shares were available for future stock incentive awards at December 27, 2014.

26, 2015.

Note 1213 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

AOCI includes certain foreign currency translation adjustments from those subsidiaries not using the U.S. dollar as their functional currency, net deferred gains and losses on certain derivative instruments accounted for as cash flow hedges, adjustments to pension and OPEB liabilities, and unrealized gains and losses on marketable securities classified as available-for-sale.




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The following table provides changes in AOCI by component, net of taxes and noncontrolling interest (amounts in parentheses indicate debits to AOCI):

(In thousands) Cumulative Translation Adjustment Unrealized (Losses)/ Gains on Derivatives Minimum Pension/OPEB Liability Adjustment Unrealized Gains on Equity Investments Total  Cumulative Translation Adjustment  Unrealized (Losses)/ Gains on Derivatives  
Minimum Pension/
OPEB Liability Adjustment
  Unrealized Gains on Equity Investments  Total 
         
Balance at December 29, 2012  $ (3,032 $(167 $(39,527 $103 $(42,623)
           
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 2,570 (2,102) 24,851 152 25,471 
Amounts reclassified from AOCI    3,815  2,518    6,333 
                     
Balance at December 28, 2013  (462)  1,546  (12,158)  255  (10,819) $(462) $1,546  $(12,158) $255  $(10,819)
                               
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (12,613) (2,766) (23,475) 15 (38,839  (12,613)  (2,766)  (23,475)  15   (38,839)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI  5,999  267  469    6,735   5,999   267   469      6,735 
                               
Balance at December 27, 2014  $(7,076) $(953) $(35,164) $270 $(42,923)  (7,076)  (953)  (35,164)  270   (42,923)
                    
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications  (17,697)  (4,604)  4,766   (49)  (17,584)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI     3,548   1,969      5,517 
                    
Balance at December 26, 2015 $(24,773) $(2,009) $(28,429) $221  $(54,990)

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Reclassification adjustments out of AOCI were as follows:
    
 Amount reclassified from AOCI Amount reclassified from AOCI
(In thousands) 2014  2013    2012 Affected Line Item 2015  2014  2013 Affected Line Item
                       
Unrealized losses on derivatives:                       
Commodity contracts $328   $ 5,618  $763 Cost of goods sold $4,486  $328  $5,618 Cost of goods sold
Foreign currency contracts  54  Depreciation expense        54 Depreciation expense
Interest rate swap  372       Interest expense
  (1,310)  (61)  (1,857)Income tax expense
 (61) (1,857)  (294)Income tax expense                    
 267   3,815   469 Net of tax  3,548   267   3,815 Net of tax
    —    Noncontrolling interest         Noncontrolling interest
                               
 $267   $ 3,815  $469 Net of tax and noncontrolling interest $3,548  $267  $3,815 Net of tax and noncontrolling interest
                                
Amortization of net loss and prior service cost on employee benefit plans $541   $ 3,844  $3,809 Selling, general, and administrative expense $2,688  $541  $3,844 Selling, general, and administrative expense
 (72)  (1,326)  (1,308)Income tax expense  (719)  (72)  (1,326)Income tax expense
 469   2,518   2,501 Net of tax                    
    —    Noncontrolling interest  1,969   469   2,518 Net of tax
                    Noncontrolling interest
 $469   $ 2,518  $2,501 Net of tax and noncontrolling interest                    
            $1,969  $469  $2,518 Net of tax and noncontrolling interest
                     
Loss recognized upon sale of business $5,999   $ 
 Gain on sale of assets $  $5,999  $ Gain on sale of assets
       Income tax benefit         Income tax benefit
 5,999    Net of tax                    
       Noncontrolling interest     5,999    Net of tax
                  Noncontrolling interest
 $5,999  $ $ Net of tax and noncontrolling interest                    
          $  $5,999  $ Net of tax and noncontrolling interest
                    

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Note 1314 – Benefit Plans

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans

The Company sponsors several qualified and nonqualified pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans for certain employees.  The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’plans' benefit obligations and the fair value of the plans’plans' assets for 20142015 and 2013,2014, and a statement of the plans’plans' aggregate funded status:

 Pension Benefits Other Benefits  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
(In thousands) 2014 2013 2014 2013  2015  2014  2015  2014 
Change in benefit obligation:                 
Obligation at beginning of year $184,058 $196,167 $15,381 $18,096  $207,738  $184,058  $19,307  $15,381 
Service cost 973 948 348 413   803   973   363   348 
Interest cost 8,590 7,774 685 647   8,032   8,590   1,005   685 
Actuarial loss (gain) 30,138  (11,635) 4,272  (2,554)
Actuarial (gain) loss  (9,163)  30,138   270   4,272 
Plan amendments        (9,094)   
Business acquisitions        5,655    
Benefit payments (11,064) (10,668) (1,142) (1,211)  (10,795)  (11,064)  (1,037)  (1,142)
Foreign currency translation adjustment  (4,957)  1,472  (237)  (10)  (3,854)  (4,957)  (626)  (237)
                         
Obligation at end of year  207,738  184,058  19,307  15,381   192,761   207,738   15,843   19,307 
                         
Change in fair value of plan assets:                         
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 188,870 160,980     190,016   188,870       
Actual return on plan assets 12,716 35,578      (1,682)  12,716       
Employer contributions 3,275 1,551 1,142 1,211   1,513   3,275   1,037   1,142 
Benefit payments (11,064) (10,668) (1,142) (1,211)  (10,795)  (11,064)  (1,037)  (1,142)
Foreign currency translation adjustment  (3,781)  1,429       (2,975)  (3,781)      
                         
Fair value of plan assets at end of year  190,016  188,870       176,077   190,016       
                         
(Underfunded) funded status at end of year $(17,722) $4,812  $(19,307) $(15,381)
Underfunded status at end of year $(16,684) $(17,722) $(15,843) $(19,307)
                         
During 2015 the Company amended one of its postretirement benefit plans to remove certain benefits, resulting in a $9.1 million reduction in the obligation.

The following represents amounts recognized in AOCI (before the effect of income taxes):

  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
(In thousands) 2014  2013  2014  2013 
                 
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain) $49,830  $21,128  $473  $(4,016)
Unrecognized prior service cost     1   14   20 
                 
  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
(In thousands) 2015  2014  2015  2014 
         
Unrecognized net actuarial loss $48,681  $49,830  $767  $473 
Unrecognized prior service (credit) cost        (9,087)  14 
                 
The Company sponsors one pension plan in the U.K. which comprised 41 and 40 percent of the above benefit obligation at December 26, 2015 and December 27, 2014, respectively, and December 28, 2013,35 and 34 percent of the above plan assets at December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, respectively.

As of December 27, 2014, $2.926, 2015, $3.1 million of the actuarial net loss and $0.9 million of the prior service credit will, through amortization, be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in 2015.2016.
 
The aggregate status of all overfunded plans is recognized as an asset and the aggregate status of all underfunded plans is recognized as a liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The amounts recognized as a liability are classified as current or long-term on a plan-by-plan basis.  Liabilities are classified as current to the extent the actuarial present value of benefits payable within the next 12 months exceeds the fair value of plan assets, with all remaining amounts being classified as long-term.  

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As of December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, the total funded status of the plans recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets was as follows:

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 Pension Benefits Other Benefits  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
(In thousands) 2014 2013 2014 2013  2015  2014  2015  2014 
                 
Long-term asset $2,348 $15,457 $  $  $765  $2,348  $  $ 
Current liability   (1,251) (1,033)        (1,221)  (1,251)
Long-term liability  (20,070)  (10,645)  (18,056)  (14,348)  (17,449)  (20,070)  (14,622)  (18,056)
                         
Total (underfunded) funded status $(17,722) $4,812  $(19,307) $(15,381)
Total underfunded status $(16,684) $(17,722) $(15,843) $(19,307)
                         
The components of net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
Pension benefits:             
Service cost $973  $948 $884  $803  $973  $948 
Interest cost 8,590  7,774 8,472   8,032   8,590   7,774 
Expected return on plan assets (13,669) (11,059) (10,263)  (10,289)  (13,669)  (11,059)
Amortization of prior service cost 1  1 1      1   1 
Amortization of net loss  752   4,005  3,883   2,710   752   4,005 
                    
Net periodic benefit (income) cost $(3,353) $1,669 $2,977 
Net periodic benefit cost (income) $1,256  $(3,353) $1,669 
                        
Other benefits:                    
Service cost $348  $413 $380  $363  $348  $413 
Interest cost 685  647 635   1,005   685   647 
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) 6  (2) (2)  6   6   (2)
Amortization of net gain  (218)  (160)  (73)  (28)  (218)  (160)
                    
Net periodic benefit cost $821  $898 $940  $1,346  $821  $898 
                   
The weighted average assumptions used in the measurement of the Company’sCompany's benefit obligations are as follows:

 Pension Benefits  Other Benefits  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
 2014  2013  2014  2013  2015  2014  2015  2014 
                        
Discount rate  4.03%  4.82%  4.33%  4.89% 4.02% 4.03% 4.25% 4.33%
Expected long-term return on plan assets  5.58%  7.40%  N/A   N/A  5.59% 5.58% N/A  N/A 
Rate of compensation increases  N/A   N/A   5.00%  5.50% N/A  N/A  5.00% 5.00%
Rate of inflation  3.10%  3.40%  N/A   N/A  3.20% 3.10% N/A  N/A 

The weighted average assumptions used in the measurement of the Company’sCompany's net periodic benefit cost are as follows:

 Pension Benefits  Other Benefits  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
 2014  2013  2012  2014  2013  2012  2015  2014  2013  2015  2014  2013 
                                    
Discount rate  4.82%  4.13%  4.80%  4.89%  4.06%  4.97% 4.03% 4.82% 4.13% 4.33% 4.89% 4.06%
Expected long-term return on plan assets  7.40%  7.15%  7.11%  N/A   N/A   N/A  5.58% 7.40% 7.15% N/A  N/A  N/A 
Rate of compensation increases  N/A   N/A   N/A   5.50%  5.04%  5.04% N/A  N/A  N/A  5.00% 5.50% 5.04%
Rate of inflation  3.40%  2.70%  3.00%  N/A   N/A   N/A  3.10% 3.40% 2.70% N/A  N/A  N/A 

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The Company’sCompany's Mexican postretirement plans use the rate of compensation increase in the benefit formulas.  Past service onin the U.K. pension plan will be adjusted for the effects of inflation.  All other pension and postretirement plans use benefit formulas based on length of service.

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The annual assumed rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care cost trend rate) is assumed to range from 7.06.8 to 9.0 percent for 2015,2016, gradually decrease to 4.53.0 percent through 2022,2036, and remain at that level thereafter.  The health care cost trend rate assumption coulddoes not have a significant effect on the amounts reported.  For example, increasing the assumed health care cost trend rates by one percentage point would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation by $2.0 million and the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit costs by $0.1 million for 2015.  Decreasing the assumed health care cost trend rates by one percentage point in each year would decrease the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit costs for 2015 by $1.7 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

Pension Assets

The weighted average asset allocation of the Company’sCompany's pension fund assets are as follows:

 Pension Plan Assets  Pension Plan Assets 
Asset category 2014  2013  2015  2014 
            
Equity securities (includes equity mutual funds)  49%  86% 51% 49%
Fixed income securities (includes fixed income mutual funds)  4   4  37  4 
Cash and equivalents (includes money market funds)  44   7  9  44 
Alternative investments  3   3  3  3 
              
Total  100%  100% 100% 100%

At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the long-term target allocation, by asset category, of assets of its defined benefit pension plans was: (i) fixed income securities - at least 60 percent; (ii) equity securities, including equity index funds - not more than 30 percent; and (iii) alternative investments - not more than 5 percent.

The pension plan obligations are long-term and, accordingly, the plan assets are invested for the long-term.  Plan assets are monitored periodically.  Based upon results, investment managers and/or asset classes are redeployed when considered necessary.  None of the plans’plans' assets are expected to be returned to the Company during the next fiscal year.  The assets of the plans do not include investments in securities issued by the Company.  

The estimated rates of return on plan assets are the expected future long-term rates of earnings on plan assets and are forward-looking assumptions that materially affect pension cost.  Establishing the expected future rates of return on pension assets is a judgmental matter.  The Company reviews the expected long-term rates of return on an annual basis and revises as appropriate.  The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was 5.59 percent for 2015 and 5.58 percent for 2014 and 7.40 percent in 2013.  For 2014, the Company lowered its expected return assumption, as it refined its asset and liability management strategy.  In lowering this assumption, management considered the historical returns, investment strategy, and target composition of each plan’s portfolio.2014.

The Company’sCompany's investments for its pension plans are reported at fair value.  The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of the Company’sCompany's plan asset investments:

Cash and money market funds – Valued at cost, which approximates fair value.

Common stock – Valued at the closing price reported on the active market on which the individual securities are traded.
 
Mutual funds – Valued at the net asset value of shares held by the plans at December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, respectively, based upon quoted market prices.

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Limited partnerships – Limited partnerships include investments in various Cayman Island multi-strategy hedge funds.  The plans’plans' investments in limited partnerships are valued at the estimated fair value of the class shares owned by the plans based upon the equity in the estimated fair value of those shares.  The estimated fair values of the limited partnerships are determined by the investment managers.  In determining fair value, the investment managers of the limited partnerships utilize the estimated net asset valuations of the underlying investment entities.  The underlying investment entities value securities and other financial instruments on a mark-to-market or estimated fair value basis.  The estimated fair value is determined by the investment managers based upon, among other things, the type of investments, purchase price, marketability, current financial condition, operating results, and other information.  The estimated fair values of substantially all of the investments of the underlying investment entities, which may include securities for which prices are not readily available, are determined by the investment managers or management of the respective underlying investment entities and may not reflect amounts that could be realized upon immediate sale.  Accordingly, the estimated fair values may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for these investments.

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The following table sets forth by level, within the fair value hierarchy, the assets of the plans at fair value:

  Fair Value Measurements at December 27, 2014 
 (In thousands) Level 1  Level 2  Level 3  Total 
             
Cash and money market funds $84,377  $  $  $84,377 
Common stock (1)
  26,105         26,105 
Mutual funds (2)
  11,397   63,067      74,464 
Limited partnerships        5,070   5,070 
                 
Total $121,879  $63,067  $5,070  $190,016 
                 
 Fair Value Measurements at December 28, 2013 Fair Value Measurements at December 26, 2015 
(In thousands) Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total 
             
Cash and money market funds $13,992 $  $ $13,992   $16,632   $   $   $16,632 
Common stock (3)(1)
 79,497   79,497    25,229            25,229 
Mutual funds (4)(2)
 27,166 63,435  90,601    9,666    119,960        129,626 
Limited partnerships      4,780  4,780            4,590    4,590 
                             
Total $120,655 $63,435 $4,780 $188,870   $51,527   $119,960   $4,590   $176,077 
                             
Fair Value Measurements at December 27, 2014 
(In thousands)Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total 
                
Cash and money market funds  $84,377   $   $   $84,377 
Common stock (3)
   26,105            26,105 
Mutual funds (4)
   11,397    63,067        74,464 
Limited partnerships           5,070    5,070 
                    
Total  $121,879   $63,067   $5,070   $190,016 
                    

(1)Approximately 50 percent of common stock represents investments in U.S. companies primarily in the health care, utilities, financials, consumer staples, industrials, and information technology sectors.  All investments in common stock are listed on U.S. stock exchanges.
(2)Approximately 67 percent of mutual funds are actively managed funds and approximately 33 percent of mutual funds are index funds.  Additionally, 12 percent of the mutual funds' assets are invested in U.S. equities, 38 percent in non-U.S. equities, 46 percent in U.S. fixed income securities, and 4 percent in non-U.S. fixed income securities.
(3)Approximately 51 percent of common stock represents investments in U.S. companies primarily in the health care, utilities, financials, consumer staples, industrials, and information technology sectors.  All investments in common stock are listed on U.S. stock exchanges. 
   
(2)(4)Approximately 40 percent of mutual funds are actively managed funds and approximately 60 percent of mutual funds are index funds.  Additionally, 23 percent of the mutual funds’funds' assets are invested in U.S. equities, 67 percent in non-U.S. equities, and 10 percent in non-U.S. fixed income securities. 
(3)Approximately 84 percent of common stock represents investments in U.S. companies primarily in the health care, utilities, financials, consumer staples, industrials, and information technology sectors.  All investments in common stock are listed on U.S. stock exchanges.
(4)Approximately 32 percent of mutual funds are actively managed funds and approximately 68 percent of mutual funds are index funds.  Additionally, 33 percent of the mutual funds’ assets are invested in U.S. equities, 58 percent in non-U.S. equities, and 9 percent in non-U.S. fixed income securities.




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The table below reflects the changes in the assets of the plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (ASC 820))of fair value hierarchy) during the year ended December 27, 2014:26, 2015:

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(In thousands) Limited Partnerships  Limited Partnerships 
     
Balance, December 28, 2013 $4,780 
Balance, December 27, 2014 $5,070 
Redemptions (401)  (697)
Subscriptions 401   250 
Net appreciation in fair value  290 
Net depreciation in fair value  (33)
       
Balance, December 27, 2014 $5,070 
Balance, December 26, 2015 $4,590 
       
 
Contributions and Benefit Payments

The Company expects to contribute approximately $1.5 million to its pension plans and $1.3$1.2 million to its other postretirement benefit plans in 2015.2016.  The Company expects future benefits to be paid from the plans as follows:

(In thousands) Pension Benefits Other Benefits (In thousands)  Pension Benefits  Other Benefits 
          
2015 $11,303 $1,251 
2016 11,492 1,137 2016  $10,832  $1,221 
2017 11,671 1,133 2017   10,856   1,112 
2018 11,878 1,203 2018   10,910   1,147 
2019 12,116 1,171 2019   10,994   1,111 
2020-2024  64,358  6,488 
20202020   11,033   1,356 
2021-2025 2021-2025   60,251   5,973 
               
Total $122,818 $12,383 Total  $114,876  $11,920 
               
 
Multiemployer Plan

The Company contributes to the IAM National Pension Fund, National Pension Plan (IAM Plan), a multiemployer defined benefit plan.  Participation in the IAM Plan was negotiated under the terms of two collective bargaining agreements in Port Huron, Michigan, the Local 218 IAM and Local 44 UAW that expire on May 1, 2016 and July 20, 2016, respectively.  The Employer Identification Number for this plan is 51-6031295.

The risks of participating in multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans in the following aspects:  (i) Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers; (ii) if a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the underfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers; (iii) if the Company chooses to stop participating in the plan, the Company may be required to pay the plan an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability.

The Company makes contributions to the IAM Plan trusts that cover certain union employees; contributions by employees are not permitted.  Contributions to the IAM Plan were $1.1 million in 2015, $1.0 million in 2014, and $0.9 million in 2013, and $1.0 million in 2012.2013.  The Company’sCompany's contributions are less than five percent of total employer contributions made to the IAM Plan indicated in the most recently filed Form 5500.

Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, the IAM Plan’sPlan's actuary must certify the plan’splan's zone status annually.  Plans in the red zone are generally less than 65 percent funded, plans in the yellow zone are less than 80 percent funded, and plans in the green zone are at least 80 percent funded.  If a plan is determined to be in endangered status, red zone or yellow zone, the plan’splan's trustees must develop a formal plan of corrective action, a Financial Improvement Plan and/or a Rehabilitation Plan.  For 20142015 and 20132014 the IAM Plan was determined to have green zone status; therefore, no formal plan of corrective action is either pending or has been implemented.
 
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401(k) Plans

The Company sponsors voluntary employee savings plans that qualify under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.  Compensation expense for the Company’sCompany's matching contribution to the 401(k) plans was $4.2 million in 2015, $4.1 million in 2014, and $3.2 million in 2013, and $2.9 million in 2012.2013.  The Company match is a cash contribution.  Participants direct the investment of their account balances by allocating among a range of asset classes including mutual funds (equity, fixed income, and balanced funds), and money market funds.  The plans do not allow direct investment in securities issued by the Company.

UMWA Benefit Plans

In October 1992, the Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act of 1992 (the Act) was enacted.  The Act mandates a method of providing for postretirement benefits to the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) current and retired employees, including some retirees who were never employed by the Company.  In October 1993, beneficiaries were assigned to the Company and the Company began its mandated contributions to the UMWA Combined Benefit Fund, a multiemployer trust.  Beginning in 1994, the Company was required to make contributions for assigned beneficiaries under an additional multiemployer trust created by the Act, the UMWA 1992 Benefit Plan.  The ultimate amount of the Company’sCompany's liability under the Act will vary due to factors which include, among other things, the validity, interpretation, and regulation of the Act, its joint and several obligation, the number of valid beneficiaries assigned, and the extent to which funding for this obligation will be satisfied by transfers of excess assets from the 1950 UMWA pension plan and transfers from the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund.  Contributions to the plan were $214 thousand, $249 thousand, $290 thousand, and $315$290 thousand for the years ended December 27,2015, 2014, December 28,and 2013, and December 29, 2012, respectively.


Note 1415 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company’sCompany's earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, and interest rates.  The Company uses derivative instruments such as commodity futures contracts, foreign currency forward contracts, and interest rate swaps to manage these exposures.

Commodity Futures Contracts

Copper and brass represent the largest component of the Company’sCompany's variable costs of production.  The cost of these materials is subject to global market fluctuations caused by factors beyond the Company’sCompany's control.  The Company occasionally enters into forward fixed-price arrangements with certain customers; the risk of these arrangements is generally managed with commodity futures contracts.  These futures contracts have been designated as cash flow hedges.  

At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company held open futures contracts to purchase approximately $23.7$33.9 million of copper over the next 12 months related to fixed price sales orders.  The fair value of those futures contracts was an $809 thousanda $1.5 million loss position, which was determined by obtaining quoted market prices (Level 1 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820)within the fair value hierarchy).  In the next twelve months, the Company will reclassify into earnings realized gains or losses relating to cash flow hedges.  At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, this amount was approximately $538 thousand$1.0 million of deferred net losses, net of tax.

The Company may also enter into futures contracts to protect the value of inventory against market fluctuations.  These futures contracts have been designated as fair value hedges.  

At December 27, 2014,26, 2015, the Company held open futures contracts to sell approximately $1.6$13.6 million of copper over the next three months related to copper inventory.  The fair value of those futures contracts was an $87a $30 thousand gainloss position, which was determined by obtaining quoted market prices (Level 1 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820).  Duringwithin the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company dedesignated previous hedges on its inventory because the hedging relationship was no longer deemed to be highly effective.  These contracts no longer qualified as hedging instruments as of December 28, 2013.

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Foreign Currency Forward Contracts

During 2012 and 2013, the Company entered into certain contracts to purchase heavy machinery and equipment denominated in euros.  In anticipation of entering into these contracts, the Company entered into forward contracts to purchase euros to protect against adverse foreign exchange rate fluctuations.  

At December 27, 2014, the Company held open forward contracts to purchase approximately 1.5 million euros over the next three months.  The fair value of these contracts, which was determined by obtaining quoted market prices (Level 1 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820), was an $81 thousand loss position recorded in other current liabilities at December 27, 2014, and an $836 thousand gain position recorded in other current assets at December 28, 2013.  At December 27, 2014, there was $157 thousand of deferred gains, net of tax, included in AOCI that is expected to be reclassified into depreciation expense over the useful life of the heavy machinery and equipment.hierarchy).  

Interest Rate Swap

On February 20, 2013, the Company entered into a two-year forward-starting interest rate swap agreement with an effective date of January 12, 2015, and an underlying notional amount of $200.0 million, pursuant to which the Company receives variable interest payments based on one-month LIBOR and pays fixed interest at a rate of 1.4 percent.  Based on the Company’sCompany's current variable premium pricing on its Term Loan Facility, the all-in fixed rate on the effective date is 2.7 percent.  The interest rate swap will mature on December 11, 2017, and is structured to offset the interest rate risk associated with the Company’sCompany's floating-rate, LIBOR-based Term Loan Facility Agreement.   The swap was designated and accounted for as a cash flow hedge from inception.

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The fair value of the interest rate swap is estimated based on the present value of the difference between expected cash flows calculated at the contracted interest rate and the expected cash flows at the current market interest rate using observable benchmarks for LIBOR forward rates at the end of the period (Level 2 hierarchy as defined by ASC 820)within the fair value hierarchy).  Interest payable and receivable under the swap agreement will beis accrued and recorded as an adjustment to interest expense.  The fair value of the interest rate swap was a $927 thousand$1.7 million loss position recorded in other liabilities at December 27, 2014,26, 2015, and a $1.3 million gain position recorded in other assets at December 28, 2013.  At December 27, 2014, there was $601 thousand$1.1 million of deferred net losses, net of tax, included in AOCI that is expected to be reclassified into interest expense over the term of the hedged item.

The Company presents its derivative assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis by counterparty.  The following table summarizes the location and fair value of the derivative instruments and disaggregates the net derivative assets and liabilities into gross components on a contract-by-contract basis:

Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives 
 Fair Value Fair Value    Fair Value   Fair Value 
(In thousands)Balance Sheet Location 2014 2013 Balance Sheet Location 2014 2013 Balance Sheet Location 2015  2014 Balance Sheet Location 2015  2014 
Hedging instrument:                   
Commodity contracts - gainsOther current assets $99 $448 Other current liabilities $15 $340 Other current assets $60  $99 Other current liabilities $238  $15 
Commodity contracts - lossesOther current assets (4) (10)Other current liabilities (832) (2,107)Other current assets     (4)Other current liabilities  (1,864)  (832)
Foreign currency contractsOther current assets  836 Other current liabilities (81)  
Foreign currency contracts - gainsOther current assets      Other current liabilities  34    
Foreign currency contracts - lossesOther current assets      Other current liabilities  (75)  (81)
Interest rate swapOther assets    1,324 Other liabilities  (927)   Other assets      Other liabilities  (1,692)  (927)
                  
Total derivatives (1)
  $95 $2,598   $(1,825) $(1,767)  $60  $95   $(3,359) $(1,825)
                              
(1) Does not include the impact of cash collateral provided to counterparties.
(1) Does not include the impact of cash collateral provided to counterparties.
 
(1) Does not include the impact of cash collateral provided to counterparties.
 
            
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The following tables summarize the effects of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income:

(In thousands)Location 2014 2013 Location2015 2014 
Fair value hedges:         
Gain on commodity contracts (qualifying)Cost of goods sold $6,783 $5,115 Cost of goods sold $3,374  $6,783 
Loss on hedged item - InventoryCost of goods sold (5,958) (4,827)Cost of goods sold  (3,665)  (5,958)

Undesignated derivatives:           
Gain (loss) on commodity contracts (nonqualifying)Cost of goods sold $1,466 $(611)
Gain on commodity contracts (nonqualifying)Cost of goods sold $3,474  $1,466 


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The following tables summarize amounts recognized in and reclassified from AOCI during the period:

       
 Year Ended December 27, 2014  Year Ended December 26, 2015 
(In thousands) (Loss) Gain Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax  Classification Gains (Losses)  Loss (Gain) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax  (Loss) Gain Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax Classification Gains (Losses) 
Loss (Gain)
Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax
 
Cash flow hedges:            
Commodity contracts  $(1,088) Cost of goods sold $ 267   $(3,817)Cost of goods sold $3,310 
Foreign currency contracts (275) Depreciation expense   —    (39)Depreciation expense   
Interest rate swap (1,435) Interest expense   —    (727)Interest expense  238 
Other  (21)Other   

      
 Year Ended December 28, 2013  Year Ended December 27, 2014 
(In thousands) (Loss) Gain Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax  Classification Gains (Losses)   Loss (Gain) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax  (Loss) Gain Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax Classification Gains (Losses) 
Loss (Gain)
Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion), Net of Tax
 
Cash flow hedges:            
Commodity contracts  $(3,337) Cost of goods sold  $   3,781    $(1,088)Cost of goods sold $267 
Foreign currency contracts 401  Depreciation expense 34     (275)Depreciation expense   
Interest rate swap 834 Interest expense  —    (1,435)Interest expense   
Other  32 Other   

The Company enters into futures and forward contracts that closely match the terms of the underlying transactions.  As a result, the ineffective portion of the open hedge contracts through December 27, 201426, 2015 was not material to the Consolidated Statements of Income.

The Company primarily enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master netting agreements with major financial institutions that permit the net settlement of amounts owed under their respective derivative contracts.  Under these master netting agreements, net settlement generally permits the Company or the counterparty to determine the net amount payable for contracts due on the same date and in the same currency for similar types of derivative transactions.  The master netting agreements generally also provide for net settlement of all outstanding contracts with athe counterparty in the case of an event of default or a termination event.  The Company does not offset fair value amounts for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral.  At December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, the Company had recorded restricted cash in other current assets of $0.5$2.6 million and $2.1$0.5 million, respectively, as collateral related to open derivative contracts under the master netting arrangements.

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Note 1516 – Industry Segments

The Company’sCompany's reportable segments are Plumbing & Refrigeration and OEM.  For disclosure purposes, as permitted under ASC 280, Segment Reporting, certain operating segments are aggregated into reportable segments.  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment is composed of Standard Products (SPD), Great Lakes, European Operations, and Mexican Operations.  The OEM segment is composed of Industrial Products (IPD), Engineered Products (EPD), and Mueller-Xingrong.  These segments are classified primarily by the markets for their products.  Performance of segments is generally evaluated by their operating income. Intersegment transactions are generally conducted on an arms-length basis.

SPD manufactures and sells copper tube, copper and fittings, plastic fittings, line sets, and line sets.  SPD also valves and imports and resells brass and plastic plumbing valves, malleable iron fittings, faucets, and plumbing specialty products.products.  These products are manufactured in the U.S.  Outside the U.S., Great Lakes manufactures copper tube and line sets in Canada and sells its products primarily in the Company’sU.S. and Canada.  European Operations manufacture copper tube in the United Kingdom, which is sold inthroughout Europe.  Mexican Operations consist of pipe nipple manufacturing and import distribution businesses including product lines of malleable iron fittings and other plumbing specialties.  The Plumbing & Refrigeration segment’ssegment products are sold primarily to plumbing, refrigeration, and air-conditioning wholesalers,wholesales, hardware wholesalers and co-ops, and building productmaterial retailers.

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IPD manufactures brass rod, impact extrusions, and forgings as well as a variety of end products including plumbing brass, automotive components, valves, and fittings.  EPD manufactures and fabricates valves and assemblies for the refrigeration, air-conditioning, gas appliance, and barbecue grill markets and specialty copper, copper-alloy, and aluminum tube.  Mueller-Xingrong manufactures engineered copper tube primarily for air-conditioning applications.  These products are sold primarily to OEM customers.

Summarized product line, geographic, and segment information is shown in the following tables.  Geographic sales data indicates the location from which products are shipped.  Unallocated expenses include general corporate expenses, plus certain charges or credits not included in segment activity.

During 2015, 2014, 2013, and 2012,2013, no single customer exceeded 10 percent of worldwide sales.

Net Sales by Major Product Line:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Tube and fittings $1,143,164 $972,107 $986,825  $1,053,761  $1,143,164  $972,107 
Brass rod and forgings 556,985 553,896 583,940   436,456   556,985   553,896 
OEM components, tube & assemblies 345,991 337,772 335,461   342,651   345,991   337,772 
Valves and plumbing specialties  262,504 239,822 231,278   198,012   262,504   239,822 
Other  55,583  54,944  52,434   69,122   55,583   54,944 
                   
 $2,364,227 $2,158,541 $2,189,938  $2,100,002  $2,364,227  $2,158,541 
                        
Geographic Information:

(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012  2015  2014  2013 
             
Net sales:             
United States $1,752,548 $1,676,385 $1,696,589  $1,519,456  $1,752,548  $1,651,138 
United Kingdom 326,832 229,659 234,684   240,823   326,832   229,659 
Canada  97,967   9,807   13,666 
Other  284,847  252,497  258,665   241,756   275,040   264,078 
                   
 $2,364,227 $2,158,541 $2,189,938  $2,100,002  $2,364,227  $2,158,541 
                        

(In thousands) 2015  2014  2013 
       
Long-lived assets:      
United States $223,398  $203,522  $198,837 
United Kingdom  15,248   19,007   21,220 
Canada  20,460       
Other  21,118   23,381   24,400 
             
  $280,224  $245,910  $244,457 
             



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(In thousands) 2014  2013  2012 
             
Long-lived assets:            
United States $322,178  $325,667  $306,023 
United Kingdom  43,064   22,159   23,496 
Other  21,641   25,224   27,442 
             
  $386,883  $373,050  $356,961 
             
Net assets of foreign operations at December 27, 2014 included $112.6 million in the United Kingdom, $50.4 million in Mexico, $45.7 million in Luxembourg, and $23.9 million in China.
Segment Information:

  For the Year Ended December 26, 2015 
 (In thousands) Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  
OEM
Segment
  Corporate and Eliminations  Total 
         
Net sales $1,260,273  $849,538  $(9,809) $2,100,002 
                 
Cost of goods sold  1,082,493   736,878   (9,669)  1,809,702 
Depreciation and amortization  19,237   13,535   1,836   34,608 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  80,405   26,477   23,476   130,358 
Gain on sale of assets  (15,376)        (15,376)
Severance  3,442         3,442 
                 
Operating income  90,072   72,648   (25,452)  137,268 
                 
Interest expense              (7,667)
Other income, net              2,188 
                 
Income before income taxes             $131,789 
                 

  For the Year Ended December 27, 2014 
 (In thousands) Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  
OEM
Segment
  Corporate and Eliminations  Total 
         
Net sales $1,416,701  $959,914  $(12,388) $2,364,227 
                 
Cost of goods sold  1,215,282   840,823   (12,386)  2,043,719 
Depreciation and amortization  19,613   11,919   2,203   33,735 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  87,539   21,458   22,743   131,740 
Gain on sale of assets  (6,259)        (6,259)
Severance  7,296         7,296 
                 
Operating income  93,230   85,714   (24,948)  153,996 
                 
Interest expense              (5,740)
Other expense, net              (243)
                 
Income before income taxes             $148,013 
                 

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  For the Year Ended December 28, 2013 
 (In thousands) Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  
OEM
Segment
  Corporate and Eliminations  Total 
         
Net sales $1,225,306  $947,784  $(14,549) $2,158,541 
                 
Cost of goods sold  1,043,059   833,518   (14,488)  1,862,089 
Depreciation and amortization  17,117   13,025   2,252   32,394 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  85,471   24,479   24,964   134,914 
Insurance settlement  (103,895)     (2,437)  (106,332)
Gain on sale of plastic fittings manufacturing assets  (39,765)        (39,765)
Impairment charges  4,173   131      4,304 
                 
Operating income  219,146   76,631   (24,840)  270,937 
                 
Interest expense              (3,990)
Other income, net              4,451 
                 
Income before income taxes             $271,398 
                 
 
  For the Year Ended December 29, 2012 
 (In thousands) Plumbing & Refrigeration Segment  
OEM
Segment
  Corporate and Eliminations  Total 
             
Net sales $1,238,230  $974,606  $(22,898) $2,189,938 
                 
Cost of goods sold  1,060,755   866,404   (22,696)  1,904,463 
Depreciation and amortization  16,513   13,435   1,547   31,495 
Selling, general, and administrative expense  75,448   27,680   26,328   129,456 
Litigation settlement        (4,050)  (4,050)
Insurance settlement  (1,500)        (1,500)
Severance        3,369   3,369 
                 
Operating income  87,014   67,087   (27,396)  126,705 
                 
Interest expense              (6,890)
Other expense, net              539 
                 
Income before income taxes             $120,354 

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(In thousands) 2014 2013 2012 2015  2014  2013 
            
Expenditures for long-lived assets (including business acquisitions):            
Plumbing & Refrigeration $55,098 $47,222 $24,030 $41,456  $30,087  $43,543 
OEM 10,788 14,845 24,137  29,420   10,788   14,845 
General corporate  400  3,253 17,290  136   401   3,254 
                  
 $66,286 $65,320 $65,457 $71,012  $41,276  $61,642 
                   
Segment assets:                  
Plumbing & Refrigeration $664,784 $625,371 $531,429 $709,447  $664,784  $625,371 
OEM 313,245 305,052 290,058  302,875   313,245   305,052 
General corporate  350,067  317,344 282,668  326,479   350,067   317,344 
                  
 $1,328,096 $1,247,767 $1,104,155 $1,338,801  $1,328,096  $1,247,767 





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Note 1617 – Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (6)(7)

 FirstSecond ThirdFourth First  Second  Third  Fourth 
(In thousands, except per share data)
 QuarterQuarter Quarter Quarter  Quarter  Quarter  Quarter 
               
2014      
2015         
Net sales $574,374 $649,691 $602,820 $537,342  $537,242  $555,593  $535,184   $471,983  
Gross profit (1)
  78,597 91,916 81,542 68,453   76,408   85,228   68,017    60,647  
Consolidated net income (5)(2)
  24,954 35,209  24,322  18,049(2)  22,340   33,862 
(3
)
 18,095 
(4
)
  14,110  
Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.  24,706 35,045 23,823 17,987   21,978   33,651    17,800     14,435  
Basic earnings per share  0.44  0.63  0.42  0.32   0.39   0.60    0.32     0.26  
Diluted earnings per share  0.44  0.62  0.42  0.32   0.39   0.59    0.31     0.25  
Dividends per share  0.075  0.075 0.075 0.075   0.075   0.075    0.075     0.075  
                              
2013          
2014                    
Net sales $559,690 $582,282 $528,854 $487,715  $574,374  $649,691   $602,820    $537,342  
Gross profit (1)
  76,840 81,157 72,552 65,903   78,597   91,916    81,542     68,453  
Consolidated net income(5)  26,434 91,842(3) 39,993(4) 15,020   24,954   35,209    24,322     18,049 
(6
)
Net income attributable to Mueller Industries, Inc.  26,202 91,150 39,864 15,384   24,706   35,045    23,823     17,987   
Basic earnings per share  0.47 1.64 0.71 0.28   0.44   0.63    0.42     0.32   
Diluted earnings per share  0.46 1.62 0.71 0.27   0.44   0.62    0.42     0.32   
Dividends per share  0.0625 0.0625 0.0625 0.0625   0.075   0.075    0.075     0.075   
                               
(1) Gross profit is net sales less cost of goods sold, which excludes depreciation and amortization.
(1) Gross profit is net sales less cost of goods sold, which excludes depreciation and amortization.
(1) Gross profit is net sales less cost of goods sold, which excludes depreciation and amortization. 
 
(2) Includes $4.8 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets and $4.2 million of pre-tax charges related to severance.
(2) Includes income earned by Turbotec, acquired during Q2 2015, Sherwood, acquired during Q2 2015, and Great Lakes, acquired during Q3 2015.(2) Includes income earned by Turbotec, acquired during Q2 2015, Sherwood, acquired during Q2 2015, and Great Lakes, acquired during Q3 2015. 
 
(3) Includes $106.3 million pre-tax gain from settlement of insurance claims.
(3) Includes $15.4 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets and $3.4 million of pre-tax charges related to severance.(3) Includes $15.4 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets and $3.4 million of pre-tax charges related to severance. 
 
(4) Includes $39.8 million pre-tax gain on sale of manufacturing assets and pre-tax impairment charges of $4.3 million primarily
related to real property associated with the aforementioned plastics sale transaction.
(5) Includes income earned by Howell, acquired during Q4 2013, and losses incurred by Yorkshire, acquired during Q1 2014.
(4) During Q3 2015, the Company recorded a permanent adjustment to a deferred tax liability of $4.2 million.(4) During Q3 2015, the Company recorded a permanent adjustment to a deferred tax liability of $4.2 million. 
 
(6) The sum of quarterly amounts may not equal the annual amounts reported due to rounding. In addition, the earnings per share amounts are computed independently for each quarter while the full year is based on the weighted average shares outstanding.
(5) Includes losses incurred by Yorkshire, acquired during Q1 2014.(5) Includes losses incurred by Yorkshire, acquired during Q1 2014. 
 
(6) Includes $4.8 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets and $4.2 million of pre-tax charges related to severance.(6) Includes $4.8 million pre-tax gain on sale of assets and $4.2 million of pre-tax charges related to severance. 
 
(7) The sum of quarterly amounts may not equal the annual amounts reported due to rounding. In addition, the earnings per share amounts are computed independently for each quarter, while the full year is based on the weighted average shares outstanding.(7) The sum of quarterly amounts may not equal the annual amounts reported due to rounding. In addition, the earnings per share amounts are computed independently for each quarter, while the full year is based on the weighted average shares outstanding. 

Note 18 – Subsequent Events

On December 30, 2015, the Company entered into a joint venture agreement with Cayan Ventures and Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company to build a copper tube mill in Bahrain.  The business will operate and brand its products under the Mueller Industries family of brands.  Under the agreement, the Company will invest approximately $5.5 million of cash and will be the technical and marketing lead in return for 40 percent ownership in the joint venture.

In February 2016, the Company entered into an agreement providing for the purchase of a 60 percent equity interest in Jungwoo Metal Ind. Co., LTD (Jungwoo) for approximately $21.0 million.  Jungwoo is a manufacturer of copper-based pipe joining products headquartered in Seoul, South Korea and serves markets worldwide.  The transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including Korean regulatory approval, and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2016.
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Table of ContentsINDEX
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Mueller Industries, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Mueller Industries, Inc. as of December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 27, 2014.26, 2015. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’sCompany's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Mueller Industries, Inc. at December 27, 201426, 2015 and December 28, 2013,27, 2014, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 27, 2014,26, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related 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.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Mueller Industries, Inc.’s's internal control over financial reporting as of December 27, 2014,26, 2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992(2013 Framework) and our report dated February 24, 20152016 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
 
 
                                                                                          
                               /s/Ernst & Young LLP
 


Memphis, Tennessee
February 24, 20152016
 

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MUELLER INDUSTRIES, INC.
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Years Ended December 26, 2015, December 27, 2014, and December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012
 

 
  Additions      Additions    
Balance at Charged to     Balance Balance at Charged to    Balance 
beginning costs and Other   at end beginning costs and Other   at end 
(In thousands)of year expenses additions Deductions of year of year expenses additions  Deductions of year 
      
2015      
Allowance for doubtful accounts  $666   $(130)  $201 
(1
)
 $114  $623 
                         
Environmental reserves  $22,661   $76   $    $1,070  $21,667 
                         
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets  $17,119   $(5)  $536    $  $17,650 
                                   
2014                              
Allowance for doubtful accounts$2,391 $(500) $18(1) $1,243 $666   $2,391   $(500)  $18 
(1
)
 $1,243  $666 
                                    
Environmental reserves$23,637 $1,187 $ $2,163 $22,661   $23,637   $1,187   $    $2,163  $22,661 
                                    
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets$22,544 $(5,630) $2,282 $2,077 $17,119   $22,544   $(5,630)  $2,282    $2,077  $17,119 
                                    
2013                                   
Allowance for doubtful accounts$1,644 $273 $812(1) $338 $2,391   $1,644   $273   $812 
(1
)
 $338  $2,391 
                                    
Environmental reserves$24,635 $986 $ $1,984 $23,637   $24,635   $986   $    $1,984  $23,637 
                                    
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets$30,394 $332  $ $8,182 $22,544   $30,394   $332   $    $8,182  $22,544 
                                    
2012           
Allowance for doubtful accounts$1,564 $867 $109(1) $896 $1,644 
           
Environmental reserves$22,892 $3,056�� $ $1,313 $24,635 
           
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets$29,705 $(1,224) $1,913 $ $30,394 
           
(1) Other consists primarily of bad debt recoveries as well as the effect of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates in all years presented.
(1) Other consists primarily of bad debt recoveries as well as the effect of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates in all years presented.
 (1) Other consists primarily of bad debt recoveries as well as the effect of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates in all years presented. 
  
  
  
  


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Table of Contents
EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibits Description  
     
10.12 Summary description of the Registrant’s 2015Registrant's 2016 incentive plan for certain key employees.  
     
21.0 Subsidiaries of the Registrant.  
     
23.0 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.  
     
31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  
     
31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  
     
32.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  
     
32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.  
     
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase  
     
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase  
     
101.INS XBRL Instance Document  
     
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase  
     
101.PRE XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document  
     
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema