UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-K


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

For the year ended September 30, 2014

OR

o 
For the year ended September 30, 2013
OR
£TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


Commission File No. 1-06620


GRIFFON CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware 11-1893410
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
712 FifthAvenue, 18thFloor, New York, New York
 10019
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
   
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:             (212) 957-5000


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


 Title of each class 
Name of each exchange on
which registered
 
 Common Stock, $0.25 par value New York Stock Exchange 


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

None


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes£o NoSx


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£o
NoSx


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





Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YesSx No£o


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


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 definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):


 
Large accelerated filer  £o
Accelerated filer                  Sx
 

Non-accelerated filer    £o

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company £o


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


The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of the close of business March 31, 2013,2014, the registrant’s most recently completed second quarter, was approximately $527,000,000.$509,000,000. The registrant’s closing price as reported by the New York Stock Exchange-Composite Transactions for March 31, 20132014 was $11.92.$11.94. The number of the registrant’s outstanding shares was 59,023,63552,656,728 as of October 31, 2013.

2014.


DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:


Part III — (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14). Registrant’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.





Special Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K, especially “Management’s Discussion and Analysis”, contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to, among other things, income (loss), earnings, cash flows, revenue, changes in operations, operating improvements, industries in which Griffon Corporation (the “Company” or “Griffon”) operates and the United States and global economies. Statements in this Form 10-K that are not historical are hereby identified as “forward-looking statements” and may be indicated by words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “supports,” “plans,” “projects,” “expects,” “believes,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “hope,” “forecast,” “management is of the opinion,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “explores,” “opportunities,” the negative of these expressions, use of the future tense and similar words or phrases. Such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: current economic conditions and uncertainties in the housing, credit and capital markets; Griffon’s ability to achieve expected savings from cost control, integration and disposal initiatives; the ability to identify and successfully consummate and integrate value-adding acquisition opportunities; increasing competition and pricing pressures in the markets served by Griffon’s operating companies; the ability of Griffon’s operating companies to expand into new geographic and product markets, and to anticipate and meet customer demands for new products and product enhancements and innovations; reduced military spending by the government on projects for which Griffon’sGriffon's Telephonics Corporation supplies products, including as a result of sequestration which took effect in March 2013;at such time as the budgetary cuts mandated by sequestration begin to take effect; the ability of the federal government to fund and conduct its operations; increases in the cost of raw materials such as resin, wood and steel; changes in customer demand or loss of a material customer at one of Griffon’s operating companies; the potential impact of seasonal variations and uncertain weather patterns on certain of Griffon’s businesses; political events that could impact the worldwide economy; a downgrade in Griffon’s credit ratings; changes in international economic conditions including interest rate and currency exchange fluctuations; the reliance by certain of Griffon’s businesses on particular third party suppliers and manufacturers to meet customer demands; the relative mix of products and services offered by Griffon’s businesses, which impacts margins and operating efficiencies; short-term capacity constraints or prolonged excess capacity; unforeseen developments in contingencies, such as litigation;litigation and environmental matters; unfavorable results of government agency contract audits of Telephonics Corporation; Griffon’s ability to adequately protect and maintain the validity of patent and other intellectual property rights; the cyclical nature of the businesses of certain of Griffon’s operating companies; and possible terrorist threats and actions and their impact on the global economy. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. Griffon undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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(Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to years or year-end refers to the fiscal year ending September 30 and US dollars and non USnon-US currencies are in thousands, except per share data)


PART I

Item 1.Business


The Company

Griffon Corporation (the “Company” or “Griffon”) is a diversified management and holding company that conductsconducting business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. Griffon oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. Griffon provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connection with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. Griffon, to further diversify, also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital.

Headquartered in New York, N.Y., the Company was founded in 1959 and is incorporated in Delaware. Griffon is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the symbol GFF.

Griffon currently conducts its operations through three reportable segments: Home & Building Products (“HBP”), Telephonics Corporation (“Telephonics”), and Clopay Plastic Products Company (“Plastics”).

HBP consists of two companies, The AMES Companies, Inc. (“AMES”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”). HBP accounted for 49% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014 and 46% in both 2013 and 2012.

·
HBP consists of two companies, Ames True Temper, Inc (“ATT”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”). HBP accounted for 46% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2013, 2012 and 2011.

-ATT, acquired on September 30, 2010,AMES is a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals. Due to the timing of the acquisition, none of ATT’s 2010 and prior results of operations were included in Griffon’s results. ATT’sAMES revenue was 23%25% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, and 23% in both 2013 and 2012, and 24% in 2011.2012.

-CBP is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains. CBP’s revenue was 23% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in both 2013 and 2012, and 22% in 2011.

·Telephonics designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions for military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics’ revenue was 24% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in both 20132014, and 2012, and 25% in 2011.
·Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.  Plastics’ revenue was 30% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue23% in both 2013 and 2012, and 29% in 2011.2012.

On March 28,


Telephonics designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions for military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics’ revenue was 21% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, and 24% in both 2013 and 2012.

Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.  Plastics’ revenue was 30% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

As a result of the decline in the U.S. housing market and the subsequent global financial crisis, Griffon amended and increasedhas been undergoing a strategic transformation. In May 2008, we announced the amount available underdivestiture of our Installation Services business, which was consummated by September 2008. In September 2008, Griffon strengthened its Revolving Credit Facility (“Credit Agreement”) from $200,000 to $225,000 and extended its maturity from March 18, 2016 to March 28, 2018 (except that if the Company’s 7-1/8 Senior Notes due 2018 are still outstanding on October 1, 2017, the Facility will mature on October 1, 2017). The facility includesbalance sheet by raising $248,600 in equity through a letter of credit sub-facility with a limit of $60,000, a multi-currency sub-facility of $50,000common stock rights offering and a swingline sub-facility withrelated investment by GS Direct L.L.C., an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. Over the past five years, Griffon has continued to refine and enhance the strategic direction and operating performance of its companies, while strengthening its balance sheet. During this period, Griffon has grown revenue and earnings through organic growth, cost containment and acquisitions, while returning capital to its shareholders through dividends and stock buybacks.

We are focused on acquiring, owning and operating businesses in a limitvariety of $30,000. Borrowings underindustries. We are long-term investors that have substantial experience in a variety of industries. Our intent is to continue the Credit Agreement may be repaidgrowth of our existing segments and re-borrowed at any time, subject to final maturity of the facility or the occurrence of a default or event of default under the Credit Agreement. Interest is payable on borrowings at either a LIBOR or base rate benchmark rate, in each case without a floor, plus an applicable margin, which adjusts based on financial performance. The current margins are 1.00% for base rate loansdiversify further through investments and 2.00% for LIBOR loans. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Griffon’s material domestic subsidiaries and are secured, on a first priority basis, by substantially all assets of the Company and the guarantors and a pledge of not greater than two-thirds of the equity interest in each of Griffon’s material, first-tier foreign subsidiaries. Atacquisitions.

On September 30, 2013, there were $25,457 of standby letters of credit outstanding under2010, Griffon purchased AMES for $542,000 in cash. Over the Credit Agreement; $199,543 was available for borrowing at that date.

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On October 17, 2011,past three years, Griffon acquired three businesses complementary to AMES: the pots and planters business of Southern Sales & Marketing Group,("Southern Patio"), Northcote Pottery™ ("Northcote") and the Australian Garden and Tools division of Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (“("Cyclone").


On October 17, 2011, AMES acquired Southern Patio”)Patio for approximately $23,000. The acquired business, which markets its products under the Southern Patio,TM brand name, is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of landscape accessories. Southern Patio which, upon acquisition, has been integrated with ATT, had revenue exceeding $40,000 in 2011.



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On MarchDecember 31, 2013, AMES acquired Northcote, founded in 1897 and a leading brand in the Australian outdoor planter and decor market, for approximately $22,000. Northcote complements Southern Patio and adds to AMES’ existing lawn and garden operations in Australia. Northcote is expected to generate approximately $28,000 of annualized revenue.
On May 21, 2014, AMES acquired Cyclone for approximately $40,000, including a $4,000 working capital adjustment. Cyclone offers a full range of quality garden and hand tool products sold under various leading brand names including Cyclone®, Nylex® and Trojan®, designed to meet the requirements of both the Do-it-Yourself and professional trade segments. Cyclone is expected to generate approximately $65,000 of annualized revenue.

Since August 2011, Griffon has repurchased 11,439,306 shares of its common stock, for a total of $122,197 or $10.68 per share. At September 30, 2014, $38,860 remains under the current Board repurchase authorization.

Since September 2008, Griffon's Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") purchased 4,013,459 shares of Griffon's common stock, for a total of $44,973 or $11.21 per share. At September 30, 2014, the ESOP holds allocated and unallocated shares totaling 5,688,036, or 11% of Griffon's outstanding shares, with a related loan balance of $38,946.

On November 17, 2011, in an unregistered offering throughthe Company began declaring quarterly dividends. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company declared and paid dividends per share of $0.12, $0.10 and $0.08, respectively, for a private placement under Rule 144A,total of $16,841 dividends paid during the period.

During 2014, Griffon issued at par,$600,000 of 5.25% Senior Notes due 2022 the proceeds of which were used to redeem $550,000 of 7.125% Senior Notessenior notes due in 2018 (“Senior Notes”); interest on the Senior Notes is payable semi-annually. Proceeds were used2018. In addition, Griffon amended its $225,000 Revolving Credit Facility to pay down theextend its maturity to 2019.

Griffon also has outstanding borrowings under a senior secured term loan facility and two senior secured revolving credit facilities of certain Company subsidiaries. The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Griffon guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries, and are subject to certain covenants, limitations and restrictions. On August 9, 2011, Griffon exchanged all of the Senior Notes for substantially identical Senior Notes registered under the Securities Act of 1933, via an exchange offer.

On September 30, 2010, Griffon purchased all of the outstanding stock of CHATT Holdings, Inc. (“ATT Holdings”), the parent of ATT, on a cash and debt-free basis, for $542,000 in cash, subject to certain adjustments.

In December 2009, Griffon issued $100,000 principal amount of 4% Convertible Subordinated Notes due 2017, (the “2017 Notes”) at an initial conversion ratio of 67.0799 shares of Griffon common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the 2017 Notes, corresponding to an initial conversion price of approximately $14.91 per share. Thewith a current conversion rate of the 2017 Notes is 67.849568.4571 shares of Griffon’s common stock per $1,000$1 principal amount of notes, correspondingwhich corresponds to a conversion price of $14.74$14.61 per share.

In 2008, as a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, Griffon exited substantially all operating activities of its Installation Services segment which sold, installed and serviced garage doors and openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry and a range of related building products, primarily for the new residential housing market. Griffon sold eleven units, closed one unit and merged two units into CBP. Operating results for substantially all of this segment has been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all periods presented; the Installation Services segment is excluded from segment reporting. At September 30, 2013, Griffon’s assets and liabilities for discontinued operations primarily related to income taxes and product liability, warranty and environmental reserves.

Griffon makes available, free of charge through its website atwww.griffoncorp.com, its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

For information regarding revenue, profit and total assets of each segment, see the Reportable Segments footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

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Reportable Segments:

Home & Building Products

Home & Building Products consists of two companies, Ames True Temper, IncAMES and Clopay Building Products, which areCBP, described below.

Ames True Temper

ATT,

AMES
AMES, founded in 1774, is the leading United States ("U.S.") and a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals. ATTAMES employs approximately 1,5002,000 employees.

Brands

ATT

AMES' brands are among the most recognized across primary product categories in the North American and Australian non-powered landscaping product markets. ATT’sOur brand portfolio includes Ames®AMES®, True Temper®, Garant®, UnionTools®, Hound Dog®, Westmix™, Cyclone®, Southern Patio®, Northcote Pottery™, Kelso™, and Dynamic Design® and Southern Patio™Design™, as well as contractor-oriented brands including Razor-Back® Professional Tools and Jackson® Professional Tools. This strong portfolio of brands enables ATTAMES to build and maintain long-standing relationships with leading retailers and distributors. In addition, given the breadth of ATT’sits brand portfolio and product category depth, ATTAMES is able to offer specific, differentiated branding strategies for key retail customers. In addition to the brands listed, ATTAMES also sells private label branded products further enabling channel management and customer differentiation.




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Products

ATT

AMES is a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals. AMES manufactures and markets one of the broadest product portfolios in the non-powered landscaping product industry. This portfolio is anchored by threefour core product categories: long handle tools, wheelbarrows, snow tools, and snow tools.decorative plastic and ceramic planters. As a result of ATT’s brand portfolio recognition, high product quality, industry leading service and strong customer relationships, ATTAMES has earned market-leading positions in the long handle tool, wheelbarrow, and snow toolits four core product categories. The following is a brief description of ATT’sAMES' primary product lines:

·Long Handle Tools:An extensive line of engineered tools including shovels, spades, scoops, rakes, hoes, cultivators, weeders, post hole diggers, scrapers, edgers and forks, marketed under leading brand names including Ames®, True Temper®, UnionTools®, Garant®, Razor-Back® Professional Tools, and Jackson® Professional Tools.
·Wheelbarrows:  ATT designs, develops and manufactures a full line of wheelbarrows and lawn carts, primarily under the Ames®, True Temper®, Jackson® Professional Tools, Razor-Back® Professional Tools, UnionTools®, Garant® and Westmix™ brand names. The products range in size (2 cubic feet to 10 cubic feet), material (poly and steel), tray form, tire type, handle length and color based on the needs of homeowners, landscapers and contractors.
·Snow Tools:  A complete line of snow tools is marketed under the True Temper® and Garant® brand names. The snow tool line includes shovels, pushers, roof rakes, sled sleigh shovels, scoops and ice scrapers.
·Planters and Lawn Accessories:  ATT is a designer, manufacturer and distributor of indoor and outdoor planters and accessories, sold under the Dynamic Design® and Southern Patio™ brand names, as well as various private label brands. The range of planter sizes (from 6 to 32 inches) are available in various designs, colors and materials. On October 17, 2011, Griffon acquired the pots and planters business which markets its products under the Southern Patio™ brand name. Southern Patio is a leading designer and marketer of decorative landscape products. Southern Patio™ andDynamic Design® have been integrated to leverage Southern Patio’s capabilities, enhance ATT’s product offering in the pots and planters category and enable ATT to improve its innovation and speed to market in the category.
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·Striking Tools:  Axes, picks, mattocks, mauls, wood splitters, sledgehammers and repair handles make up the striking tools product line. These products are marketed under the True Temper®,UnionTools®, Garant®,Jackson® Professional Tools, and Razor-Back®Professional Tools brand names.
·Pruning:  
Long Handle Tools: An extensive line of engineered tools including shovels, spades, scoops, rakes, hoes, cultivators, weeders, post hole diggers, scrapers, edgers and forks, marketed under leading brand names including AMES®, True Temper®, UnionTools®, Garant®, Westmix™, Cyclone®, Southern Patio®, Northcote Pottery™ and Kelso™, as well as contractor-oriented brands including Razor-Back® and Jackson®.

Wheelbarrows:  AMES designs, develops and manufactures a full line of wheelbarrows and lawn carts, primarily under the AMES®, True Temper®, Jackson® Professional Tools, Razor-Back® Professional Tools, UnionTools®, Garant® and Westmix™ brand names. The pruning line is made up of pruners, loppers, shears and other tools sold primarily under the True Temper® brand name.
·Garden Hose and Storage:  ATT offers a wide range of both manufactured and sourced garden hoses and hose reels under the Ames®, NeverLeak® and Jackson® Professional Tools brand names.

Customers

ATTsells products througrange in size (2 ft³ to 10 ft³), material (poly and steel), tray form, tire type, handle length and color based on the needs of homeowners, landscapers and contractors.hout


Snow Tools:  A complete line of snow tools is marketed under the True Temper® and Garant® brand names. The snow tool line includes shovels, pushers, roof rakes, sled sleigh shovels, scoops and ice scrapers.

Planters and Lawn Accessories:  AMES is a designer, manufacturer and distributor of indoor and outdoor planters and accessories, sold under the Southern Patio®, Northcote Pottery™ and Dynamic Design™ brand names, as well as various private label brands. The range of planter sizes (from 6 to 32 inches) is available in various designs, colors and materials. On October 17, 2011, Griffon acquired the Southern Patio® pots and planters business. Southern Patio® is a leading designer and marketer of decorative landscape products. Southern Patio® and Dynamic Design have been integrated to leverage Southern Patio®’s capabilities, enhance AMES' product offering in the U.S. pots and planters category and enable AMES to improve its innovation and speed to market in this category.

Striking Tools:  Axes, picks, mattocks, mauls, wood splitters, sledgehammers and repair handles make up the striking tools product line. These products are marketed under the True Temper®, Cyclone®, UnionTools®, Garant®, Jackson® Professional Tools and Razor-Back® Professional Tools brand names.

Hand Tools:  Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, handsaws, tape measures, levels, clamps, and other traditional non-powered hand tools make up this product line. These products are marketed under the Trojan®, Supercraft®, and Eagle® brand names.

Pruning:  The pruning line is made up of pruners, loppers, shears and other tools sold primarily under the True Temper® brand name.

Garden Hose and Storage:  AMES offers a wide range of manufactured and sourced garden hoses and hose reels under the AMES®, NeverLeak®, Nylex® and Jackson® Professional Tools brand names.

Customers
AMES sells products throughout North America, Australia and Europe through (1) retail centers, including home centers and mass merchandisers, such as The Home Depot, Inc. (“Home Depot”), Lowe’s Companies Inc. (“Lowe’s”), Walmart,Wal-Mart Stores Inc. ("Walmart"), Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited, Costco Wholesale Corporation, Rona Inc., Bunnings Warehouse ("Bunnings") and WoodiesWoodies; (2) wholesale chains, including hardware stores and garden centers, such as Ace, Do-It-Best and True Value Company and (3) industrial distributors, such as W.W. Grainger, Inc. and ORS Nasco.

Home Depot, Lowe's and Lowe’sBunnings are significant customers of ATT.AMES. The loss of eitherany of these customers would have a material adverse effect on ATT’sthe AMES business and Griffon’s business.

on Griffon.

Product Development

ATT

AMES product development efforts focus on both new products and product line extensions. Products are developed through in-house industrial design and engineering staffs to introduce new products and product line extensions timely and cost effectively.


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Sales and Marketing

ATT’s

AMES' sales organization is structured by distribution channel in the U.S., and by country internationally. In the U.S., a dedicated team of sales professionals is provided for each of the large retail customers. Offices are maintained adjacent to each of the three largest customers’ headquarters, as well assupported by dedicated in-house sales analysts at the corporate office.analysts. In addition, sales professionals are assigned to domestic, wholesale and industrial distribution channels. Sales teams located in Canada, Australia and Ireland handle sales in each of their respective locations.

regions. In Australia, a dedicated team of sales professionals is provided for the largest retail customer.

Raw Materials and Suppliers

ATT’s

AMES' primary raw material inputs include resin (primarily polypropylene and high density polyethylene), wood (mainly ash, hickory and poplar logs) and steel (hot rolled and cold rolled). In addition, some key materials and components are purchased, such as heavy forged components and wheelbarrow tires; most final assembly is completed internally in order to ensure consistent quality. All raw materials used by ATT are generally available from a number of sources.

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Competition

The non-powered landscaping product industry is highly competitive and fragmented. Most competitors consist of small, privately-held companies focusing on a single product category. Some competitors, such as Fiskars Corporation and Truper Herramientas S.A. de C.U., compete in various tool categories. Suncast Corporation competes in the hose reel and accessory market, and Colorite Waterworks and Swan both Techniplex companies, competeHose competes in the garden hose market. In addition, there is competition from imported or sourced products from China, India and other low-cost producing countries, particularly in long handled tools, wheelbarrows, planters, striking tools and pruning tools.

The principal factors by which ATTAMES differentiates itself and provides the best value to customers are innovation, service, quality, and product performance. ATT’sAMES' size, depth and breadth of product offering, category knowledge, research and development (“R&D”) investment and service are competitive advantages. Offshore manufacturers lack sufficient product innovation, capacity, proximity to market and distribution capabilities to service large retailers to compete in highly seasonal, weather related product categories.


Manufacturing & Distribution

ATT has nine operational

Ames maintains two distribution centers. Infacilities in the U.S., the largest of these are a 1.2 million square foot facility in Carlisle, Pennsylvania and a 400,000 square foot facility in Reno, Nevada. Finished goods from manufacturing sites are transported to these facilities by an internal fleet, over the road trucking and rail. Additionally, light assembly is performed at the Carlisle and Reno locations. Distribution centers are also maintained in Canada, Australia and Ireland, and ATT utilizes a third party distribution center in Mexico City, Mexico. ATT has five distribution centers in Australia. ATTIreland. AMES has a combination of internal and external, domestic and foreign manufacturing sources from which it producessources products for sale in North American, Australian and European markets.

the markets it serves.

In January 2013, ATTAMES announced its intention to close certain of its manufacturing facilities and to consolidate affected operations primarily into its Camp Hill and Carlisle, PA locations. The intended actions, to be completed by the end of calendar 2014, will improve manufacturing and distribution efficiencies, allow for in-sourcing of certain production currently performed by third party suppliers, and improve material flow and absorption of fixed costs.

ATT Management estimates that these actions will result in annual cash savings exceeding $10,000, based on current operating levels.


AMES anticipates incurring pre-tax restructuring and related exit costs approximating $8,000, comprised of cash charges of $4,000 and non-cash, asset-related charges of $4,000; the cash charges will include $3,000$2,500 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel-related costs and $1,000$1,500 for facility exit costs. ATTAMES expects $20,000 in capital expenditures in connection with this initiative and, to date, has incurred $6,553$7,941 and $11,937$17,728 in restructuring costs and capital expenditures, respectively.


Clopay Building Products

CBP, in business since 1964, ishas grown, organically and through tuck-in acquisitions, to become the largest manufacturer and marketer of residential garage doors, and among the largest manufacturers of commercial sectional doors, in the United States,U.S., and manufactures a complete line of entry door systems uniquely designed to complement its popular residential garage door styles. The majority of CBP’s sales are for home remodeling and renovation, with the balance for the new residential housing and commercial building markets. Sales into the home remodeling market are being driven by the continued aging of the housing stock, existing home sales activity, and the trendtrends of improving both home appearance as well as improvedand energy efficiency. CBP employs approximately 1,3001,400 employees.


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According to the USU.S. census, calendar year 20132014 new construction single-family homeshome starts will increase by 17%4%. The repair and remodel market was flatrose 2% for the trailing twelve months ending June 2013,March 2014, with modest growth expectations for the second halfbalance of the calendar year tempered by rising interest rates and falling consumer confidence.year. The commercial segment saw spending drop 3%rise 13% for the year (according to estimates from McGraw Hill Construction Dodge). According to industry sources, the residential and commercial sectional garage door market for calendar year 20122013 was estimated to be $1,650,000,$1,750,000, which increased $50,000$100,000 over the prior year.

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Brands

CBP brings nearly 50 years of experience and innovation to the garage door industry. Our strong family of brands includes Clopay®, America’s Favorite Garage Doors®;, Holmes Garage Door Company® and IDEAL Door®. Clopay is the only residential garage door brand to hold the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.

Products and Service

CBP manufactures a broad line of residential sectional garage doors with a variety of options, at varying prices. CBP offers garage doors made primarily from steel, plastic composite and wood, and also sells related products, such as garage door openers manufactured by third parties.

CBP also markets commercial sectional doors, which are similar to residential garage doors, but are designed to meet the more demanding performance specifications of a commercial application.

CBP has a complete line of entry door systems uniquely designed to complement its popular residential garage door styles.

Customers

CBP is the principal supplier of residential garage doors throughout North America to Home Depot and Menards. The loss of either of these customers would have a material adverse effect on CBP’s and Griffon’s business. CBP distributes its garage doors directly to customers from its manufacturing facilities and through its distribution centers located throughout the United StatesU.S. and Canada. These distribution centers allow CBP to maintain an inventory of garage doors near installing dealers and provide quick-ship service to retail and professional dealer customers.


Product Development

CBP product development efforts focus on both new products and improvements to existing products. Products are developed through in-house design and engineering staffs.

CBP operates a technical development center where its research engineers design, develop and implement new products and technologies and perform durability and performance testing of new and existing products, materials and finishes. CBP continually improves theirits garage door offerings through these development efforts, focusing on characteristics such as strength, design and energy efficiency. Also at this facility, the process engineering team works to develop new manufacturing processes and production techniques aimed at improving manufacturing efficiencies and ensuring quality-made products.

Sales and Marketing

The CBP sales and marketing organization supports our customers, consults on new product development and aggressively markets garage door solutions, with a primary focus on the North American market.

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CBP recently developed a web application that guides consumers through an easy to use visualization and pricing program, allowing them to select the optimal door for their home.

Raw Materials and Suppliers

The principal raw material used in CBP’s manufacturing is galvanized steel. CBP also utilizes certain hardware components, as well as wood and insulated foam. All of these raw materials are generally available from a number of sources.

Competition

The garage door industry is characterized by several large national manufacturers and many smaller, regional and local manufacturers. CBP competes on the basis of service, quality, price, brand awareness and product design.


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CBP’s brand names are widely recognized in the building products industry. CBP believes that it has earned a reputation among installing dealers, retailers and wholesalers for producing a broad range of innovative, high-quality doors. CBP’s market position and brand recognition are key marketing tools for expanding its customer base, leveraging its distribution network and increasing its market share.

Distribution

CBP distributes its products through a wide range of distribution channels, including installing dealers, retailers and wholesalers. CBP owns and operates a national network of 49 distribution centers. Additionally, products are sold to approximately 2,000 independent professional installing dealers and to major home center retail chains. CBP maintains strong relationships with its installing dealers and believes it is the largest supplier of residential garage doors to the retail and professional installing channels in North America.

Manufacturing

CBP currently has manufacturing facilities in Troy, Ohio and Russia, Ohio.

During the second quarter of 2013, CBP completed the closing of the Auburn, Washington facility and the consolidation of that facility into its Russia, Ohio facility.

In June 2009, CBP undertook to consolidate its manufacturing facilities. These actions were completed in 2011. CBP incurred total pre-tax exit and restructuring costs approximating $9,031, substantially all of which were cash charges and which included $1,160 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, $210 for excess facilities and related costs, and $7,661 for other exit costs, primarily in connection with production realignment. Capital expenditures were $10,365.

The facility consolidation was part of CBP’s continuing efforts to improve and streamline its manufacturing processes. CBP’s engineering and technological expertise, combined with its capital investment programs, has enabled it to efficiently manufacture products in large volume and meet changing customer needs in a timely manner. CBP uses proprietary manufacturing processes to produce the majority of its products. Certain machinery and equipment are internally modified to achieve manufacturing objectives. These manufacturing facilities produce a broad line of high quality garage doors for distribution to professional installer, retail and wholesale channels.

Telephonics Corporation

Telephonics, founded in 1933, specializes in advanced electronic information and communication systems for defense, aerospace, civil, industrial, and commercial applications for the United States (“U.S.”) and international markets. Telephonics designs, develops, manufactures, sells, and provides logistical support and sustainment services for aircraft intercommunication systems, radar, air traffic management, identification friend or foe equipment (“IFF”), Integrated Homeland Security Systemsintegrated border and perimeter security systems and custom, mixed-signal, application-specific, integrated circuits. Telephonics is also a provider of advanced systems engineering services supporting air and missile defense programs, as well as other threat and situational analysis requirements. Telephonics is a leading supplier of airborne maritime surveillance radar and aircraft intercommunication management systems, the segment’s two largest product lines. In addition to its traditional defense products used predominantly by the U.S. Government and its agencies, Telephonics has adapted its core technologies to products used in international markets in an effort to further increase its presence in both non-defense government and commercial markets. In 2013,2014, approximately 77%72% of the segment’s sales were to the U.S. Government and agencies thereof, as a prime or subcontractor, 17%19% to international customers and 6%9% to U.S. commercial customers. Telephonics employs approximately 1,200people.

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1,200 people.

Griffon believes that Telephonics’ advanced systems and sub-systems are well-positioned to address the needs of an integrated and modernized battlefield with emphasis on providing situational awareness to the warfighters through the retrieval and dissemination of timely data for use by highly mobile ground, air and sea-going forces. Telephonics anticipates that the need for such systems will increase in connection with the increasingly active role that the military is playing in the war on terrorism, both at home and abroad. In recent years, Telephonics has increasingly focused its technologies and core competencies in the growing Homeland Security,border and perimeter security, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (“ISR”) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (“UAV”) markets.


Telephonics operates in an increasingly complex industry that is faced with continued economic and budgetary pressure on U.S. Department of Defense procurement initiatives. Despite these challenges, Telephonics remains focused on delivering high-quality mission capable products and services at competitive prices to its customers. Telephonics continues to expand its product portfolio with innovative and cutting-edge technology concentrating on core and adjacent markets that will support its growth initiatives both domestically and internationally.
On April 22, 2013, the Telephonics’ Joint Venture (“JV”) withbetween Telephonics and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd was incorporated. The JV will provide the Indian Ministry of Defensedefense and the Indian Civil sectorcivil sectors with radar and surveillance systems, IFF devices and communication systems. In addition, the JV intends to provide systems for Air Traffic Management Services, Homeland Securityservices, border and perimeter security and other emerging surveillance requirements.

Programs and Products

Based on long-established relationships supported by existing contractual arrangements, Telephonics is a first-tier supplier to prime contractors in the defense industry such as Lockheed Martin Corporation ("Lockheed Martin"), The Boeing Company ("Boeing"), Northrop Grumman General Dynamics,Corporation ("Northrup Grumman"), MacDonald Dettwiler Eurocopter, Sierra Nevada Corporationand Associates Ltd., Airbus Military, Airbus Helicopters, Agusta Westland, SAAB, and Sikorsky Aircraft ("Sikorsky"), and is at times a prime contractor to the U.S.

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Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“Homeland Security”).Defense. The significance of each of these customers to Telephonics’ revenue fluctuates on an annual basis, based on the timing and funding of the Original Equipment Manufacturers (“OEM”) contract award, and the technological scope of the work required to be performed.required. The significant contraction and consolidation in the U.S. and international defense industry provides opportunities for established first-tier suppliers to capitalize on existing relationships with major prime contractors and to play a larger role in defense systems development and procurement for the foreseeable future.

Telephonics continues to direct resources towards border surveillance and critical infrastructure security initiatives. These opportunities represent strategic advances for Telephonics by enabling it to expand its core technical expertise into the nascent and growing Homeland Securityborder and perimeter security markets, both in the U.S. and abroad. As withWith many of these programs, the system specifications, and operational and test requirements are challenging, exacerbated by demanding delivery schedules. Telephonics believes that the technological capabilities that these systems encompass will also be able to serve and protect the most complex borders.

In its fiscal year 2013, Telephonics was awarded a contract by Northrop Grumman as the radar supplier for the U.S. Navy’s Firescout MQ-8B program, which is a vertical take-off and landing UAV platform. This positions Telephonics, with both its radar and communications products, as a strong competitor in this growing UAV / UAV/ISR market segment.

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As a result of its performance on a prior manufacturing contract with Syracuse Research Corporation, Telephonics received a subcontract award from Sierra Nevada Corporation for both production and support of counter-IED devices, which resulted in $33,000, $24,000 and $44,000 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Backlog

The funded backlog for Telephonics approximated $494,000 at September 30, 2014, compared to $444,000 at September 30, 2013, compared to $451,000 at September 30, 2012.2013. The decreasegrowth in backlog is primarily attributablethe result of an increase in order intake as compared to the prior year, as well as the impact that the timing of work performedthese orders had on various domesticthe associated recognition of revenue and, internationalultimately, the burn-off of backlog. Additionally, the backlog position reflects an increased amount associated with IFF and other radar contractsprograms, awarded in the previouslatter part of the fiscal year, for which revenue will not be recognized until the following fiscal year. Additionally, the backlog was adversely impacted by the de-obligation of funds associated with the Mobile Surveillance Capability contract with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, as this contract was unexpectedly terminated. This decrease was partially offset by stronger demand and awards for IFF products. Approximately 72%65% of the current backlog is expected to be filled during 2014.

2015.

Customers

The U.S. Government, through its prime contractors like Lockheed Martin, CorporationSikorsky, Northrop Grumman and the Boeing, Company, is a significant customer of Telephonics. The loss of the U.S. governmentGovernment or any one of its prime contractors as a customer would have a material adverse effect on Telephonics’ business. Notwithstanding the significance of Lockheed Martin, Corporation, Sikorsky, Northrop Grumman and the Boeing, Company, Telephonics sells to a diverse group of other domestic and international defense industry contractors, as well as others who use Telephonics products for commercial use.

Telephonics participates in a range of long-term defense and non-military government programs, both in the U.S. and internationally. Telephonics has developed a base of installed products that generate significant recurring revenue from product enhancements and retrofits, as well as providing spare parts and customer support. Due to the inherent complexity of these electronic systems, Telephonics believes that its incumbent status on major platforms provides a competitive advantage in the selection process for platform upgrades and enhancements. Furthermore, Telephonics believes that its ability to leverage and apply its advanced technology to new platforms provides a competitive advantage when bidding for new business.

Research and Development

("R&D")

In an effort to maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty, Telephonics works closely with prime customers to ensure that there is a future market for its products by investing R&D funds in desired enhancements. Telephonics continually updates its core technologies through internally funded R&D while coordinating with its customers at the earliest stages of new program development in an effort to provide solutions well in advance of its competitors. Internally funded R&D costs include basic and applied research initiatives, development activities, and other conceptual formulation studies. Telephonics is a technological leader in its core markets and pursues new growth opportunities by leveraging its systems design and engineering capabilities and incumbent position on key platforms.

In addition to products for defense programs, TelephonicsTelephonics' technology is also used in commercial applications such as airborne weather, search and rescue radar, and air traffic management systems. Telephonics’ reputation for innovative product design and engineering capabilities, especially in the areas of voice and data communications, radio frequency design, digital signal processing, networking systems, inverse synthetic aperture radar and analog, digital and mixed-signal integrated circuits, will continue to enhance its ability to secure, retain and expand its participation in defense programs and commercial opportunities.

Telephonics often designs its products to exceed customers’ minimum specifications, providing its customers with greater performance, flexibility, and value. Telephonics believes that early participation and communication with its customers in the

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requirements definition stages of new program development increases the likelihood that its products will be selected and integrated as part of a total system solution.

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Sales and Marketing

Telephonics has technical business development personnel who act as the focal point for its marketing activities and sales representatives who introduce its products and systems to customers worldwide.

Competition

Telephonics competes with major manufacturers of electronic information and communication systems, as well as several smaller manufacturers of similar products. Telephonics endeavors to design high quality and reliable products with greater performance and flexibility than its competitors while competing on the basis of technology, design, qualityinnovative solutions, and price.

Manufacturing Facilities

Telephonics’ facilities are principally located in the United States,U.S., primarily in New York, with one facility in Sweden.York. Telephonics also maintains a Technical Support Services Center in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, which supports aircraft integration and upgrade activities in addition to providing support services to customers.

Clopay Plastic Products

Plastics, produceswhich began as a paper products company in the 1930s and expanded with plastic products in the 1950s, develops and produces specialty plastic films and laminates for a variety of hygienic, health care and industrial uses in the United StatesU.S. and certain international markets. Products include thin gauge embossed and printed films, elastomeric films, laminates of film and non-woven fabrics, and perforated films and non-wovens. These products are used as moisture barriers in disposable infant diapers, adult incontinence products and feminine hygiene products, protective barriers in single-use surgical and industrial gowns, drapes and equipment covers, fluid transfer/distribution layers in absorbent products, components to enhance comfort and fit in infant diaper and adult incontinence products, packaging for hygienic products, house wrap and other products. Plastics’ products are sold through a direct sales force, primarily to multinational consumer and medical products companies. Plastics employs approximately 1,500employees.

1,500 employees.

The markets in which Plastics participates have been affected by several key trends over the past five years. These trends include the increased use of disposable products in developing countries and favorable demographics, including increasing immigration in major global economies. Other trends representing significant opportunities include the continued demand for innovative products such as cloth-like, breathable, laminated and printed products, and large consumer products companies’ needneeds for global supply partners. Notwithstanding the positive trends affecting the industry, product design changes by the customer can change the products manufactured by Plastics and the associated demand.

Plastics believes that its business development activities targeting major multinational and regional producers of hygiene, healthcare and related products and its investments in its technology development capability and capacity increases will lead to additional sales of new and related products.

Products

Plastics’ specialty plastic film is a thin-gauge film engineered to provide certain performance characteristics and manufactured from polymer resins. A laminate is the combination of a plastic film and a woven or non-woven fabric. These products are produced using both cast and blown extrusion and various laminating processes. High speed, multi-color custom printing of films, customized embossing patterns, and proprietary perforation technology further differentiate theour products. Specialty plastic film products typically provide a unique combination of performance characteristics, such as breathability, barrier properties, fluid flow management, elastic properties, processability and aesthetic appeal that meet specific, proprietary customer needs.

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Customers

Plastics’ largest customer is The Procter & Gamble Co.Company (“P&G”), which has accounted for approximately half of its revenue over the last five years. The loss of this customer would have a material adverse effect on the Plastics business and Griffon. Notwithstanding the significance of P&G, Plastics sells to a diverse group of other leading consumer, health care and industrial companies.


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Product Development

Plastics is an industry leader in the research, design and development of specialty plastic film and laminate products. Plastics operates a technical center where polymer chemists, scientists and engineers work independently, and in partnershipspartnership with customers to develop new technologies, products, processes and product applications.

Plastics’ R&D efforts have resulted in many inventions covering embossing patterns, improved processing methods, product formulations, product applications and other proprietary technology. Products developed include microporous breathable films and cost-effective printed films and laminates. Microporous breathability provides for moisture vapor transmission and airflow while maintaining barrier properties resulting in improved comfort and skin care. Elastic laminates provide the user with improved comfort and fit. Printed films and laminates provide consumersconsumer preferred aesthetics, such as softness and visual appeal. Perforated films and non-wovens provide engineered fluid transfer with unique softness and aesthetics. Plastics holds a number of patents for its specialty film and laminate products and related manufacturing processes. While patents play a significant role, Plastics believes that its proprietary know-how and the knowledge, ability and experience of its employees are more significant to its long-term success.

Sales and Marketing

Plastics sells its products primarily in North America, Europe, and South and Central America with additional sales in Asia Pacific and Africa. Plastics primarily utilizes an internal direct sales force, with senior management actively participating in developing and maintaining close contacts with customers.

Plastics seeks to expand its market presence by providing innovative products and services to major international consumer products companies. Specifically, Plastics believes that it can continue to increase its North American sales and expand internationally through ongoing product development and enhancement, and by marketing its technologically-advanced films, laminates and printed films for use in all of its markets. Operations in Germany and Brazil, and most recently in China and Turkey, provide a strong platform for additional sales growth in international markets.

Raw Materials and Suppliers

Plastic resins, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and non-woven fabrics are the basic raw materials used in the manufacture of substantially all Plastics’ products. The price of resin has fluctuated dramatically over the past five years primarily due to volatility in oil and natural gas prices, and producer capacity. Resins are purchased in pellet form from several suppliers. Sources for raw materials are believed to be adequate for current and anticipated needs.

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Competition

Plastics has a number of competitors, some of whichwhom are larger, in the specialty plastic films and laminates market. Plastics competes on quality, service and price using its technical expertise, product development capabilities and broad international footprint to enhance its market position, build and maintain long-term customer relationships and meet changing customer needs.

Manufacturing

Specialty plastic film and laminate products are manufactured using high-speed equipment designed to meet stringent tolerances. The manufacturing process consists of melting a mixture of polymer resins and additives, and forcing this mixture through a combination of die and rollers to produce thin films. Laminates of films and non-wovens are manufactured by a variety of techniques to meet customer needs. In addition, films and laminates can be printed.

Plastics’ U.S. manufacturing facilities are in Augusta, Kentucky and Nashville, Tennessee from which it sells plastic films throughout the United StatesU.S. and various parts of the world.

Plastics has two manufacturing facilities in Germany from which it sells plastic films throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Plastics also has operations in Brazil, China and Turkey, which manufacture plastic hygienic and specialty films. Plastics’ international operations provide a platform to broaden participation in Europe, the Middle East, South America and Asia and strengthen Plastics’ position as a global supplier.





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Griffon Corporation

Employees

Griffon and its subsidiaries employ approximately 5,4006,100 people located primarily throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, Brazil, Australia China and Mexico.China. Approximately 200of200 of these employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements in the U.S., primarily with an affiliate of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations,Organizations; United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America,America; International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union. Additionally, approximately 200 employees in Canada are represented by the Trade Union Advisory Committee. Griffon believes its relationships with its employees are satisfactory.

Regulation

Griffon’s operations are subject to various environmental, health, and employee safety laws and regulations. Griffon believes that it is in material compliance with these laws and regulations. Historically, compliance with environmental laws has not materially affected, and is not expected to materially affect, Griffon’s capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position in the future. Nevertheless, Griffon cannot guarantee that, in the future, it will not incur additional costs for compliance or that such costs will not be material.

Telephonics, which sells directly and indirectly to the U.S. government, is subject to certain regulations, laws and standards set by the U.S. government. Additionally, Telephonics is subject to routine audits and investigations by U.S. Government Agencies such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency, the Defense Security Service, with respect to its classified contracts, and other Inspectors General. These agencies review a contractor’s performance under its contracts, cost structure and compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards.standards, including those relating to facility and personnel security clearances. These agencies also review the adequacy of, and a contractor’s compliance with, its internal control systems and policies, including the contractor’s management, purchasing, property, estimating, compensation, and accounting and information systems.

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Customers

A small number of customers account for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of Griffon’s consolidated revenue. In 2013:

2014:
a.The U.S. Government and its agencies, through prime and subcontractor relationships, represented 19%15% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 77%72% of TelephonicsTelephonics' revenue.
b.P&G represented 14% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 47%46% of PlasticsPlastics' revenue.
c.The Home Depot represented 11%12% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 25%23% of HBPHBP's revenue.

No other customer exceeded 9%8% of consolidated revenue. Future operating results will continue to substantially depend on the success of Griffon’s largest customers and our relationships with them. Orders from these customers are subject to change and may fluctuate materially. Theloss of all or a portion of volume from any one of these customers could have a material adverse impact on Griffon’s financial results, liquidity and operations.

Seasonality

Generally,

Historically, Griffon’s revenue and income arewere lowest in our first and fourth quarters ending December 31, and September 30, respectively, and highest in our second and third quarters ending March 31, and June 30, respectively, primarily due to the seasonality of ATT’sAMES' business. ATT’s lawnWith the 2014 acquisition of Northcote and garden products are used primarilyCyclone®, both in the spring and summer; in 2013, 63%Australia, AMES' revenue is less susceptible to seasonality. In 2014, 58% of ATT’sAMES' sales occurred during the second and third quarters.quarters compared to 63% in 2013. CBP’s business is driven by residential renovation and construction during warm weather, which is generally at reduced levels during the winter months.

months, generally in our second quarter. Griffon's revenue is expected to be lowest in the first quarter and highest in the third quarter.

Demand for lawn and garden products is influenced by weather, particularly weekend weather during the peak gardening season. ATT’sAMES' sales volumes couldvolume can be adversely affected by certain weather patterns such as unseasonably cool or warm temperatures, hurricanes, water shortages or floods. In addition, lack of snow or lower than average snowfall during the winter season may also result in reduced sales of certain ATTAMES products, such as snow shovels and other snow tools. As a result, ATT’sAMES' results of operations, financial results and cash flows could be adversely impacted.


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Financial Information About Geographic Areas

Segment and operating results are included in Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

For geographic financial information, see the Reportable Segment footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8, Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

Griffon’s non-U.S. businesses are primarily in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Turkey China, Sweden, United Kingdom and Mexico.

China.

Research and Development

Griffon’s companiesbusinesses are encouraged to improve existing products as well as develop new products to satisfy customer needs; expand revenue opportunities; maintain or extend competitive advantages; increase market share and reduce production costs. R&D costs, not recoverable under contractual arrangements, are charged to expense as incurred. R&D costs for Griffon were $23,400 in 2014, $22,400 in 2013 and $23,600 in 2012 and $23,900 in 2011.

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2012.

Intellectual Property

Griffon follows a practice of actively protecting and enforcing its proprietary rights in the U.S. and throughout the world where Griffon’s products are sold.

Trademarks are of significant importance to Griffon’s HBP business. With 50 years of experience and innovation in the garage door industry, and with Clopay being the only residential garage door brand to hold the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval, CBP has a significant level of goodwill in its strong family of brands, including: Clopay®, America’s Favorite Garage Doors®; Holmes Garage Door Company® and IDEAL Door®. Principal global and regional trademarks used by AMES include Clopay®AMES®, Ideal Door®, Holmes®, Ames®, True Temper®, Ames True Temper®, Garant®, UnionTools®, Hound Dog®, Westmix andWestmix™, Cyclone®, Southern Patio®, Northcote Pottery™, Kelso™, Dynamic Design™, UnionTools®, Razor-Back® Professional Tools and Jackson® Professional Tools. The HBP business has 778 registered trademarks and approximately 104 pending trademark applications around the world. Plastics uses the Clopay® trademark in addition to its 67 other trademarks. The HBP business has 524brand names, and holds 72 registered trademarks and approximately 256 pending trademark applications.applications around the world. Griffon’s rights in these trademarks endure for as long as they are used and registered.

Patents are significant to Plastics. Technology evolves rapidly in the plastics business, and Plastics’ customers are constantly striving to offer products with innovative features at a competitive price to the end consumer. As a result, Plastics is constantly seekingseeks to offer new and innovative products to its customers. Plastics has 2724 issued patents and 16 pending patent applications in the U.S., and 154 corresponding foreign patents and patent applications, primarily covering breathable and elastic polymer films and laminates and various methods and machinery for producing these materials. Patents are also important to our HBP segment. ATTbusiness. CBP holds 19 issued patents and has 3 patent applications pending in the U.S., as well as 18 corresponding foreign patents and patent applications, primarily related to garage door system components. AMES protects its designs and product innovation through the use of patents, and currently has 223256 issued patents and 2756 pending patent applications in the United States,U.S., as well as 154176 and 2863 corresponding foreign patents and patent applications, respectively. CBP has 25 patents in the United States, and 16 corresponding foreign patents, primarily related to garage door system components. Design patents are generally valid for fourteen years, and utility patents are generally valid for twenty years. Our various patents are in different stages of their useful life.

In the government and defense business, formal intellectual property rights are of limited value. Therefore, our Telephonics business tends to hold most of its important intellectual property as trade secrets, which it protects through the use of contract terms and carefully restricting access to its technology.

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Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following is a current list of Griffon’s executive officers:


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Name Age Positions Held and Prior Business Experience
Ronald J. Kramer 5556 Chief Executive Officer since April 2008, Director since 1993, Vice Chairman of the Board since November 2003, and President from February 2009 to December 2012. From 2002 through March 2008, President and a Director of Wynn Resorts, Ltd., a developer, owner and operator of destination casino resorts.  From 1999 to 2001, Managing Director at Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein, an investment banking firm, and its predecessor Wasserstein Perella & Co. MemberFormerly on the boards of the Board of Directorsdirectors of Leap Wireless International, Inc. (NASDAQ: LEAP), a wireless communications company.  Formerly on the boards of directors of Monster Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: MWW) and Sapphire Industrials Corporation (AMEX: FYR). Mr. Kramer is the son-in-law of Harvey R. Blau, Griffon’s Chairman of the Board.
     
Robert F. Mehmel 5152 

President and Chief Operating Officer since December 2012. From August 2008 to October 2012, President and Chief Operating Officer of DRS Technologies (“DRS”), a supplier of integrated products, services and support to military forces, intelligence agencies and prime contractors worldwide. From May 2006 to August 2008, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of DRS and from January 2001 to May 2006, Executive Vice President, Business Operations and Strategy, of DRS.

     
Douglas J. Wetmore 5657 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2009.  From April 1998 to July 2008, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (“IFF”), a creator of flavors and fragrances used in a variety of consumer products (NYSE: IFF).  From October 2007 to July 2008, Treasurer of IFF.  From 1991 to 1998, Corporate Controller of IFF.  Prior to IFF, Price Waterhouse for 12 years.
     
Seth L. Kaplan 4445 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since May 2010.  From July 2008 to May 2010, Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary at Hexcel Corporation, a manufacturer of advanced composite materials for space and defense, commercial aerospace and wind energy applications.  From 2000 to July 2008, Senior Corporate Counsel and Assistant Secretary at Hexcel.  From 1994 to 2000, associate at the law firm Winthrop, Stimson, Putnam & Roberts (now Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP).
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Item 1A. Risk Factors

Griffon’s business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows can be impacted by a number of factors which could cause Griffon’s actual results to vary materially from recent or anticipated future results. The risk factors discussed in this section should be carefully considered with all of the information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. These risk factors should not be considered the only risk factors facing Griffon. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known or that are currently deemed immaterial may also materially impact Griffon’s business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows in the future.

In general, Griffon is subject to the same general risks and uncertainties that impact other diverse manufacturing companies including, but not limited to, general economic, industry and/or market conditions and growth rates; impact of natural disasters and their effect on global markets; continued events in the Middle East and Asia and possible future terrorist threats and their effect on the worldwide economy; and changes in laws or accounting rules. Griffon has identified the following specific risks and uncertainties that it believes have the potential to materially affect its business and financial condition.

Current worldwide economic uncertainty and market volatility could adversely affect Griffon’s businesses.

The current worldwide economic uncertainty and market volatility willcould continue to have an adverse effect on Griffon during 2014,2015, particularly in HBP, which is substantially linked to the U.S. housing market and the U.S. economy in general. Also, purchases of ATTAMES' products are discretionary for consumers and consumerswho are generally more willing to purchase products during periods in which favorable macroeconomic conditions prevail. Additionally, the current condition of the credit markets could impact Griffon’s ability to refinance expiring debt, obtain additional credit for investments in current businesses or for acquisitions, with favorable terms, or there may be no financing available. Griffon is also exposed to basic economic risks including a decrease in the demand for the products and services offeredit offers or a higher risklikelihood of default on its receivables.

Adverse trends in the housing sector and in general economic conditions will directly impact Griffon’s business.

HBP’s business is influenced by market conditions for new home construction and renovation of existing homes. For the year ended September 30, 2013,2014, approximately 46%49% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue was derived from the HBP segment, which is heavily dependent on new home construction and renovation of existing homes. The strength of the U.S. economy, the age of existing home stock, job growth, interest rates, consumer confidence and the availability of consumer credit, as well as demographic factors such as the migration into the United StatesU.S. and migration of the population within the United StatesU.S., also have an effect on HBP. In that respect,

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the significant downturn in the housing market has had an adverse effect on the operating results of HBP and this effect is likely to continue in 2014,2015, particularly with respect to its CBP business.

Griffon operates in highly competitive industries and may be unable to compete effectively.

Griffon’s operating companies face intense competition in each of the markets served. There are a number of competitors, some of which are larger and have greater resources than Griffon’s operating companies. Griffon competes primarily on the basis of competitive prices, technical expertise, product differentiation, and quality of products and services. There can be no assurance that Griffon will not encounter increased competition in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on Griffon’s financial results.

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The loss of large customers can harm financial results.

A small number of customers account for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of Griffon's consolidated revenue. Approximately 14% of consolidated revenue and 47%46% of the Plastics segment revenue for the year ended September 30, 20132014 was generated from P&G, the largest customer in the Plastics segment.&G. Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards and MenardsBunnings are significant customers of HBP with Home Depot accounting for approximately 11%12% of consolidated revenue and 25%23% of the HBP segmentHBP's revenue for the year ended September 30, 2013.2014. The U.S. Government and its agencies and subcontractors, including Lockheed Martin Corporation and Boeing, is a significant customer of Telephonics, and accounts for approximately 15% of consolidated revenue and 72% of Telephonics segment revenue, inclusive of sales made through Lockheed Martin and Boeing where Telephonics serves as a subcontractor; Lockheed Martin and Boeing each represent less than 10% of consolidated revenue inclusive of such sales to the Boeing Company, are significant customers of Telephonics.U.S. Government. Future operating results will continue to substantially depend on the success of Griffon’s largest customers, as well as Griffon’s relationship with them. Orders from these customers are subject to fluctuation and may be reduced materially due to changes in these customers’customer needs. Any reduction or delay in sales of products to one or more of these customers could significantly reduce Griffon’s revenue. Griffon’s operating results will also depend on successfully developing relationships with additional key customers. Griffon cannot assure that Griffon’sits largest customers will be retained or that additional key customers will be recruited. Also, HBP and Plastics extendsextend credit to their customers, which exposes them to credit risk. HBP’s largest customer accounted for approximately 24%18% and 10%9% of HBP’s and Griffon’s net accounts receivable as of September 30, 2013,2014, respectively. Plastics’ largest customer accounted for approximately 35%27% and 12%7% of Plastic’sPlastics' and Griffon’s net accounts receivable as of September 30, 2013,2014, respectively. If either of these customers were to become insolvent or otherwise unable to pay its debts, the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the respective segments and Griffon could be adversely affected.

Reliance on third party suppliers and manufacturers may impair AMES' ability to meet ATT’sits customer demands.

ATT

AMES relies on a limited number of domestic and foreign companies to supply components and manufacture certain of its products. The percentage of ATT’sAMES products sourced, based on revenue, approximated 35%41% in 2013.2014. Reliance on third party suppliers and manufacturers may reduce control over the timing of deliveries and quality of ATT’sAMES' products. Reduced product quality or failure to deliver products quicklytimely may jeopardize relationships with certain of ATT’sAMES' key customers. In addition, reliance on third party suppliers or manufacturers may result in failure to meet ATT’sAMES' customer demands. Continued turbulence in the worldwide economy may affect the liquidity and financial condition of ATT’sAMES' suppliers. Should any of these parties fail to manufacture sufficient supply, go out of business or discontinue a particular component, alternative suppliers may not be found in a timely manner, if at all. Such events could impact ATT’sAMES' ability to fill orders, which could have a material adverse effect on customer relationships.

If Griffon is unable to obtain raw materials for products at favorable prices it could adversely impact operating performance.

HBP’s and Plastics’ suppliers primarily provide resin, wood and steel. Assurance cannot be provided that these segments maywill not experience shortages of raw materials or components for products or be forced to seek alternative sources of supply. If temporary shortages due to disruptions in supply caused by weather, transportation, production delays or other factors require raw materials to be secured from sources other than current suppliers, the terms may not be as favorable as current terms or materialcertain materials may not be available at all. In recent years, HBP and Plastics have experienced price increases in steel and plastic resins.

While most key raw materials used in Griffon’s businesses are generally available from numerous sources, raw materials are subject to price fluctuations. Because raw materials in the aggregate constitute a significant component of the cost of goods sold, price fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on Griffon’s results of operations. Griffon’s ability to pass raw material price increases to customers is limited due to supply arrangements and competitive pricing pressure, and there is generally a time lag between increased raw material costs and implementation of corresponding price increases for Griffon’s products. In particular, sharp increases in raw material prices are more difficult to pass through to customers and may negatively affect short-term financial performance.

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ATT

14


AMES is subject to risks associated with sourcing from Asia.

A substantial amount of ATT’sAMES finished goods sourcing is done through supply agreements with China based vendors. China does not have a well-developed, consolidated body of laws governing agreements with international customers. Enforcement of existing laws or contracts based on existing law may be uncertain and sporadic, and it may be difficult to obtain swift and equitable enforcement or to obtain enforcement of a judgment by a court of another jurisdiction. The relative inexperience of China’s judiciary in many cases creates additional uncertainty as to the outcome of any litigation. In addition, interpretation of statutes and regulations may be subject to government policies reflecting domestic political changes. Products entering from China may be subject to import quotas, import duties and other restrictions. Any inability to import these products into the U.S. and any tariffs that may be levied with respect to these products may have a material adverse result on ATT’sAMES' business and results of operations, financial position and cash flows.

Griffon’s businesses are subject to seasonal variations and the impact of uncertain weather patterns.

Generally,

Historically, Griffon’s revenue and income are lowest in our first and fourth quarters ending December 31, and September 30, respectively, and highest in our second and third quarters ending March 31, and June 30, respectively, primarily due to the seasonality of ATT’sAMES' business. ATT’s lawnWith the 2014 acquisition of Northcote and garden products are used primarilyCyclone, both in the spring and summer; in 2013 63%Australia, AMES' revenue is less susceptible to seasonality. In 2014, 58% of ATT’sAMES' sales occurred during the second and third quarters.quarters compared to 63% in 2013. CBP’s business is driven by residential renovation and construction during warm weather, which is generally at reduced levels during the winter months.

months, generally in our second quarter. Griffon's revenue is expected to be lowest in the first quarter and highest in the third quarter.

Demand for lawn and garden products is influenced by weather, particularly weekend weather during the peak gardening season. ATT’sAMES sales volumes could be adversely affected by certain weather patterns such as unseasonably cool or warm temperatures, hurricanes, water shortages or floods. In addition, lack of snow or lower than average snowfall during the winter season may result in reduced sales of certain ATTAMES products, such as snow shovels and other snow tools. As a result, ATT’sAMES' results of operations, financial results and cash flows could be adversely impacted.

Further consolidation in the retail industry may adversely affect profitability.

Home centers and mass merchandisers have consolidated and increased in scale. If this trend continues, customers will likely seek more favorable terms for their purchases of products, which will limit Griffon’s ability to pass through raw material or other cost increases, or to raise prices for any reason. Sales on terms less favorable than current terms could have a material adverse effect on profitability.

Unionized employees could strike or participate in a work stoppage.

Griffon employs approximately 5,4006,100 people on a full-time basis, approximately 8% of whom are covered by collective bargaining or similar labor agreements (all in thewithin Telephonics and ATT businesses)AMES). If unionized employees engage in a strike or other work stoppage, or if Griffon is unable to negotiate acceptable extensions of agreements with labor unions, a significant disruption of operations and increased operating costs could occur. In addition, any renegotiation or renewal of labor agreements could result in higher wages or benefits paid to unionized employees, which could increase operating costs and could have a material adverse effect on profitability.

Griffon may be required to record impairment charges for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets.

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Griffon is required to assess goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets annually for impairment or on an interim basis if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events suggest impairment exists. If impairment testing indicates that the carrying value of reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeds the respective fair value, an impairment charge would be recognized. If goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets were to become impaired, the results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Trends in the baby diaper market will directly impact Griffon’s business.

Recent trends have been for baby diaper manufacturers to specify thinner plastic films for use in their products which reduces the amount of product sold and Plastics’ revenue; this trend has generally resulted in Plastics incurring costs to redesign and reengineer products to accommodate required specification changes. Such decreases, or the inability to meet changing customer specifications, could result in a material decline in Plastics revenue and profits.


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Telephonics’ business depends heavily upon government contracts and, therefore, the defense budget.

Telephonics sells products to the U.S. government and its agencies both directly and indirectly as a first-tier supplier to prime contractors in the defense industry such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Sikorsky and Northrop Grumman. In the year ended September 30, 2013,2014, U.S. government contracts and subcontracts accounted for approximately 19%15% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue. Contracts involving the U.S. government may include various risks, including:

·Termination for default or for convenience by the government;
·Reduction or modification in the event of changes in the government’s requirements or budgetary constraints;
·Increased or unexpected costs, causing losses or reduced profits under contracts where Telephonics’ prices are fixed, or determinations that certain costs are not allowable under particular government contracts;
·The failure or inability of the prime contractor to perform its contract in circumstances where Telephonics is a subcontractor;
·Failure to observe and comply with government business practice and procurement regulations such that Telephonics could be suspended or barred from bidding on or receiving awards of new government contracts;
·The failure of the government to exercise options for additional work provided for in contracts; and
·The government’s right, in certain circumstances, to freely use technology developed under these contracts.

Termination for default or for convenience by the government;
Reduction or modification in the event of changes in the government’s requirements or budgetary constraints;
Increased or unexpected costs, causing losses or reduced profits under contracts where Telephonics’ prices are fixed, or determinations that certain costs are not allowable under particular government contracts;
The failure or inability of the prime contractor to perform its contract in circumstances where Telephonics is a subcontractor;
Failure to observe and comply with government business practice and procurement regulations such that Telephonics could be suspended or barred from bidding on or receiving awards of new government contracts;
The failure of the government to exercise options for additional work provided for in contracts; and
The government’s right, in certain circumstances, to freely use technology developed under these contracts.

All of Telephonics’ U.S. Government end-user contracts contain a termination for convenience clause, regardless if Telephonics is the prime contractor or the subcontractor. This clause generally entitles Telephonics, upon a termination for convenience, to receive the purchase price for delivered items, reimbursement of allowable work-in-process costs, and an allowance for profit. Allowable costs would include the costs to terminate existing agreements with suppliers.

The programs in which Telephonics participates may extend for several years, but are normallyand may be funded on an incremental basis. Decreases in the U.S. defense budget, in particular with respect to programs to which Telephonics supplies materials, could have a material adverse impact on Telephonics financial conditions, results of operations and cash flows. The U.S. government may not continue to fund programs to which Telephonics’ development projects apply. Even if funding is continued, Telephonics may fail to compete successfully to obtain funding pursuant to such programs. Reductions to funding on existing programs or delays in the funding of new opportunities could affect the timing of revenue recognition, and impact theTelephonics' and Griffon's results of operation.

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operations.

In 2013,2014, the Budget Control Act called for additional substantial, mandatory defense spending reductions, known as “sequestration.” There continues to be much uncertainty regarding how sequestration will be implemented. There are many variables in how the law could be applied that make it difficult to determine the specific impacts; however, we expect that sequestration will result in lower revenues, profits and cash flows for Telephonics.

Ability of government to fund and conduct its operations

The impact of a government shutdown for any duration could have a material adverse effect on Telephonics’ revenues, profits and cash flows. Telephonics relies on government personnel to conduct routine business processes related to the inspection and delivery of products for various programs, to approve and pay certain billings and invoices, and for other administrative services that, if disrupted, could have an immediate impact on Telephonics’ business related to government programs.

Telephonics’ business could be adversely affected by a negative audit by the U.S. Government

As a government contractor, and a subcontractor to government contractors, Telephonics is subject to audits and investigations by U.S. Government Agencies such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency, the Defense Security Service, with respect to its classified contracts, other Inspectors General and the Department of Justice. These agencies review a contractor’s performance under its contracts, its cost structure and compliance with applicable laws and standards as well as compliance with applicable regulations, including those relating to facility and standards.personnel security clearances. These agencies also review the adequacy of, and a contractor’s compliance with, its internal control systems and policies, including the contractor’s management, purchasing, property, estimating, compensation, and accounting and information systems. Any costs found to be misclassified or improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed, or must be refunded if already billed and collected. Griffon could incur significant expenses in complying with audits and subpoenas issued by the government in aid of inquiries and investigations. If an audit or an investigation uncovers improper or illegal activities, Telephonics may be subject to civil and criminal penalties and/or administrative sanctions, which could include contract termination, forfeiture of profit, suspension of payments, fines and suspension or prohibition from doing business with the U.S. Government. In addition, if allegations of impropriety are made, Telephonics and Griffon could suffer serious reputational harm.


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Many of our contracts contain performance obligations that require innovative design capabilities, are technologically complex, or are dependent upon factors not wholly within our control. Failure to meet these obligations could adversely affect customer relations, future business opportunities, and our overall profitability.

Telephonics designs, develops and manufactures advanced and innovative surveillance and communication products for a broad range of applications for use in varying environments. As with many of our programs, system specifications, operational requirements and test requirements are challenging, exacerbated by the need for quick delivery schedules.Technical problems encountered and delays in the development or delivery of such products, as well as the inherent discretion involved in government approval related to compliance with applicable specifications of products supplied under government contracts, could prevent us from meeting contractual obligations, which could subject us to termination for default. Under a termination for default, the company is entitled to negotiate payment for undelivered work if the Government requests the transfer of title and delivery of partially completed supplies and materials. Conversely, if the Government does not make this request, there is no obligation to reimburse the company for its costs incurred. We may also be subject to the repayment of advance and progress payments, if any. Additionally, the company may be liable to the Government for any of its excess costs incurred in acquiring supplies and services similar to those terminated for default, and for other damages. Should any of the foregoing events occur, it could result in a material adverse effect on our financial position.

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Griffon’s companies must continually improve existing products, design and sell new products and invest in research and development in order to compete effectively.

The markets for Plastics and Telephonics are characterized by rapid technological change, evolving industry standards and continuous improvements in products. Due to constant changes in these markets, future success depends on their ability to develop new technologies, products, processes and product applications.

Product and technological developments are accomplished both through internally-funded R&D projects, as well as through strategic partnerships with customers. Because it is not generally possible to predict the amount of time required and costs involved in achieving certain R&D objectives, actual development costs may exceed budgeted amounts and estimated product development schedules may be extended. Griffon’s financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected if:

·Product improvements are not completed on a timely basis;
·New products are not introduced on a timely basis or do not achieve sufficient market penetration;
·There are budget overruns or delays in research and development efforts; or
·New products experience reliability or quality problems.

Product improvements are not completed on a timely basis;
New products are not introduced on a timely basis or do not achieve sufficient market penetration;
There are budget overruns or delays in R&D efforts; or
New products experience reliability or quality problems.

Griffon may be unable to implement its acquisition growth strategy, which may result in added expenses without a commensurate increase in revenue and income and divert management’s attention.

Making strategic acquisitions is a significant part of Griffon’s growth plans. The ability to successfully complete acquisitions depends on identifying and acquiring, on acceptable terms, companies that either complement or enhance currently held businesses or expand Griffon into new profitable businesses, and, for certain acquisitions, obtaining financing on acceptable terms. Additionally, Griffon must properly integrate acquired businesses in order to maximize profitability. The competition for acquisition candidates is intense and Griffon cannot assure that it will successfully identify acquisition candidates and complete acquisitions at reasonable purchase prices, in a timely manner, or at all. Further, there is a risk that acquisitions will not be properly integrated into Griffon’s existing structure. In implementing an acquisition growth strategy, the following may be encountered:

·Costs associated with incomplete or poorly implemented acquisitions;
·Expenses, delays and difficulties of integrating acquired companies into Griffon’s existing organization;
·Dilution of the interest of existing stockholders;
·Diversion of management’s attention; or
·Difficulty in obtaining financing on acceptable terms, or at all.

Costs associated with incomplete or poorly implemented acquisitions;
Expenses, delays and difficulties of integrating acquired companies into Griffon’s existing organization;
Dilution of the interest of existing stockholders;
Diversion of management’s attention; or
Difficulty in obtaining financing on acceptable terms, or at all.

An unsuccessful implementation of Griffon’s acquisition growth strategy could have an adverse impact on Griffon’s results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

The loss of certain key officers or employees could adversely affect Griffon’s business.

The success of Griffon is materially dependent upon the continued services of certain key officers and employees. The loss of such key personnel could have a material adverse effect on Griffon’s operating results or financial condition.


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Griffon is exposed to a variety of risks relating to non-U.S. sales and operations, including non-U.S. economic and political conditions and fluctuations in exchange rates.

22

Griffon and its companies own properties and conduct operations in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Turkey China, Sweden, United Kingdom and Mexico,China, and sell itstheir products in many countries around the world. Sales of products through non-U.S. subsidiaries accounted for approximately 23%24% of consolidated revenue for the year ended September 30, 2013.2014. These sales could be adversely affected by changes in political and economic conditions, trade protection measures, the ability of the Company to enter into industrial cooperation agreements (off-set agreements), differing intellectual property rights laws and changes in regulatory requirements that restrict the sales of products or increase costs.costs in such locations. Enforcement of existing laws in foreignsuch jurisdictions can be uncertain, and the lack of a sophisticated body of laws can create various uncertainties, including with respect to customer and supplier contracts. Currency fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and the currencies in the non-U.S. regions in which Griffon does business may also have an impact on future reported financial results.


Our international sales and operations are subject to applicable laws relating to trade, export controls and foreign corrupt practices, the violation of which could adversely affect our operations. We are subject to various anti-corruption laws that prohibit improper payments or offers of payments to foreign governments and their officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. In addition, we are subject to export controls, laws and regulations applicable to us, including the Arms Export Control Act, the International Traffic in Arms Regulation and the Export Administration Regulations, and economic sanctions laws and embargoes imposed by various governments or organizations, including the U.S. and the European Union or member countries. Violations of anti-corruption, export controls, or sanctions laws may result in severe criminal or civil sanctions and penalties, including debarments from export privileges, loss of authorizations needed to conduct our international business, or harm our ability to enter into contracts with the U.S. Government, and we may be subject to other liabilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Griffon may not be able to protect its proprietary rights.

Griffon relies on a combination of patent, copyright and trademark laws, trade secrets, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements and other contractual provisions to protect proprietary rights. Such measures do not provide absolute protection and Griffon cannot give assurance that measures for protecting these proprietary rights are and will be adequate, or that competitors will not independently develop similar technologies.

Griffon may inadvertently infringe on, or may be accused of infringing on, proprietary rights held by another party.

Griffon is regularly improving its technology and employing existing technologies in new ways. Though Griffon takes reasonable precautions to ensure it does not infringe on the rights of others, it is possible that Griffon may inadvertently infringe on, or may be accused of infringing on, proprietary rights held by others. If Griffon is found to have infringed on the propriety rights held by others, any related litigation or settlement relating to such infringement may have a material effect on Griffon’s financial statementsbusiness, results of operations and financial condition.

Griffon is exposed to product liability and warranty claims.

Griffon is subject to product liability and warranty claims in the ordinary course of business, including with respect to former businesses now included within discontinued operations. These claims relate to the conformity of its products with required specifications, and to alleged or actual defects in Griffon’s products (or in end-products in which Griffon’s products were a component part) that cause damage to property or persons. There can be no assurance that future product liability claims will not be brought against Griffon, either by an injured customer of an end product manufacturer who used one of the products as a component or by a direct purchaser. There is also no assurance that the number and value of warranty claims will not increase as compared to historical claim rates, or that our warranty reserve at any particular time is sufficient. No assurance can be given that indemnification from customers or coverage under insurance policies will be adequate to cover future product liability claims against Griffon; for example, product liability insurance typically does not cover claims for punitive damages. Warranty claims are typically not covered by insurance at all. Product liability insurance can be expensive, difficult to maintain and may be unobtainable in the future on acceptable terms. The amount and scope of any insurance coverage may be inadequate if a product liability claim is successfully asserted. Furthermore, if any significant claims are made, the business and the related financial condition of Griffon may be adversely affected by negative publicity.

Griffon has been, and may in the future be, subject to claims and liabilities under environmental laws and regulations.

23

Griffon’s operations and assets are subject to environmental laws and regulations pertaining to the discharge of materials into the environment, the handling and disposal of wastes, including solid and hazardous wastes, or otherwise relating to health, safety

18


and protection of the environment, in various jurisdictions in which it operates. Griffon does not expect to make any expenditure with respect to ongoing compliance with or remediation under these environmental laws and regulations that would have a material adverse effect on its business, operating results or financial condition. However, the applicable requirements under environmental laws and regulations may change at any time.

Griffon can incur environmental costs related to sites that are no longer owned or operated, as well as third-party sites to which hazardous materials are sent. It cannot be assured that material expenditures or liabilities will not be incurred in connection with such claims. See the Commitment and Contingencies footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on environmental contingencies. Based on facts presently known, the outcome of current environmental matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on Griffon’s results of operations and financial condition. However, presently unknown environmental conditions, changes in environmental laws and regulations or other unanticipated events may give rise to claims that may involve material expenditures or liabilities.

Changes in income tax laws and regulations or exposure to additional income tax liabilities could adversely affect profitability.

Griffon is subject to Federal, state and local income taxes in the U.S. and in various taxing jurisdictions outside the U.S. Tax provisions and liabilities are subject to the allocation of income among various U.S. and international tax jurisdictions. Griffon’s effective tax rate could be adversely affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in any valuation allowance for deferred tax assets or the amendment or enactment of tax laws. The amount of income taxes paid is subject to audits by U.S. Federal, state and local tax authorities, as well as tax authorities in the taxing jurisdictions outside the U.S. If such audits result in assessments different from recorded income tax liabilities, Griffon’s future financial results may include unfavorable adjustments to its income tax provision.

Compliance with restrictions and covenants in Griffon’s debt agreements may limit its ability to take corporate actions and harm its business.

actions.

The senior secured credit agreement entered into by, and the terms of the senior notes issued by, Griffon each contain covenants that restrict the ability of Griffon and its subsidiaries to, among other things, incur additional debt, pay dividends, incur liens and make investments, acquisitions, dispositions, restricted payments and capital expenditures. Under the credit agreement, Griffon is also required to comply with specific financial ratios and tests. Griffon may not be able to comply in the future with these covenants or restrictions as a result of events beyond its control, such as prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions or a change in control of Griffon. If Griffon defaults in maintaining compliance with the covenants and restrictions in its credit agreement or the senior notes, its lenders could declare all of the principal and interest amounts outstanding due and payable and, in the case of the credit agreement, terminate their commitments to extend credit to Griffon in the future. If Griffon or its subsidiaries are unable to secure credit in the future, its business could be harmed.

Reported earnings per share may be more volatile because of the conversion contingency provision of the notes.

The outstanding convertible notes are convertible when a “market price” condition is satisfied and also upon the occurrence of other circumstances as more fully described in the Notes Payable, Capitalized Leases and Long-Term Debt footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Upon conversion, at Griffon’s discretion, note holders will receive $1,000$1 in cash for each $1,000$1 principal amount of notes presented for conversion or an equivalent value in Griffon’s common stock, and Griffon common stock for the value above the principal amount of the notes. The potential shares of Griffon common stock issuable for value above the principal value of the notes are considered in the calculation of diluted earnings per share and volatility in Griffon’s stock price could cause these notes to be dilutive in one quarter and not in a subsequent quarter, increasing the volatility of fully diluted earnings per share.

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Griffon may be unable to raise additional financing if needed

Griffon may need to raise additional financing in the future in order to implement its business plan, refinance debt, or to acquire new or complimentary businesses or assets. Any required additional financing may be unavailable, or only available at unfavorable terms, due to uncertainties in the credit markets. If Griffon raises additional funds by issuing equity securities, current holders of its common stock may experience significant ownership interest dilution and the holders of the new securities may have rights senior to the rights associated with current outstanding common stock.

Griffon’s indebtedness and interest expense could limit cash flow and adversely affect operations and Griffon’s ability to make full payment on outstanding debt.

Griffon’s indebtedness poses potential risks such as:

·A substantial portion of cash flows from operations could be used to pay principal and interest on debt, thereby reducing the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, product development and other general corporate purposes;
·Insufficient cash flows from operations may force Griffon to sell assets, or seek additional capital, which Griffon may not be able to accomplish on favorable terms, if at all; and
·The level of indebtedness may make Griffon more vulnerable to economic or industry downturns.


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A substantial portion of cash flows from operations could be used to pay principal and interest on debt, thereby reducing the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, product development and other general corporate purposes;
Insufficient cash flows from operations may force Griffon to sell assets, or seek additional capital, which Griffon may not be able to accomplish on favorable terms, if at all; and
The level of indebtedness may make Griffon more vulnerable to economic or industry downturns.

Griffon has the ability to issue additional equity securities, which would lead to dilution of issued and outstanding common stock.

The issuance of additional equity securities or securities convertible into equity securities would result in dilution to existing stockholders’ equity interests. Griffon is authorized to issue, without stockholder vote or approval, 3,000,0004,200,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series, and has the ability to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of any such series. Any such series of preferred stock could contain dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption, redemption prices, liquidation preferences or other rights superior to the rights of holders of Griffon’s common stock. There is no present intention of issuing any such preferred stock, but Griffon reserves the right to do so in the future. In addition, Griffon is authorized to issue, without stockholder approval, up to 85,000,000 shares of common stock, of which 59,089,33553,148,612 shares, net of treasury shares, were outstanding as of September 30, 2013.2014. Additionally, Griffon is authorized to issue, without stockholder approval, securities convertible into either shares of common stock or preferred stock.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

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None.

Item 2.Properties

Item 2.    Properties

Griffon occupies approximately 7,600,0007,700,000 square feet of general office, factory and warehouse space throughout the U.S., Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Turkey, China Sweden and the United Kingdom. For a description of the encumbrances on certain of these properties, see the Notes Payable, Capitalized Leases and Long-Term Debt footnote in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The following table sets forth certain information related to Griffon’s major facilities:

Location Business Segment Primary Use Approx.
Square
Footage
  Owned/
Leased
 Lease
End Year
            
New York, NY Corporate Headquarters  10,000  Leased 2016
Jericho, NY Corporate Office  6,900  Leased 2015
Farmingdale, NY Telephonics Manufacturing/R&D  180,000  Owned  
Huntington, NY Telephonics Manufacturing  90,000  Owned  
Huntington, NY Telephonics Manufacturing  100,000  Leased 2016
Columbia, MD Telephonics Manufacturing/Engineering  25,000  Leased 2015
Stockholm, Sweden Telephonics Manufacturing/Engineering  22,000  Leased 2015
Elizabeth City, NC Telephonics Repair and Service  22,000  Leased 2039
Mason, OH Home & Building Products/ Clopay Plastic Products Office/R&D  131,000  Owned  
Aschersleben, Germany Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  289,000  Owned  
Dombuhl, Germany Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  124,000  Owned  
Augusta, KY Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  354,000  Owned  
Nashville, TN Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  210,000  Owned  
Nashville, TN Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  190,000  Leased 2014
Jundiai, Brazil Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  88,000  Owned  
Hangzhou, China Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  44,000  Leased 2016
Istanbul, Turkey Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing  30,000  Leased 2014
Troy, OH Home & Building Products Manufacturing  867,000  Leased 2021
Russia, OH Home & Building Products Manufacturing  339,000  Owned  
Carlisle, PA Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution  1,227,000  Leased 2015
Reno, NV Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution  400,000  Leased 2017
Camp Hill, PA Home & Building Products Office, Manufacturing  380,000  Leased 2020
Harrisburg, PA Home & Building Products Manufacturing  264,000  Owned  
St. Francois, Quebec Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution  353,000  Owned  
Lewistown, PA Home & Building Products Manufacturing  124,000  Leased 2015
Cork, Ireland Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution  74,000  Owned  
Victoria, Australia Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution  32,000  Leased 2016
New South Wales, Australia Home & Building Products Distribution  24,000  Leased 2014
Queensland, Australia Home & Building Products Distribution  17,000  Leased 2014
Western, Australia Home & Building Products Distribution  22,000  Leased 2015



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Location Business Segment Primary Use 
Approx.
Square
Footage
 
Owned/
Leased
 
Lease
End Year
New York, NY Corporate Headquarters 10,000
 Leased 2016
Jericho, NY Corporate Office 6,900
 Leased 2016
Farmingdale, NY Telephonics Manufacturing/R&D 180,000
 Owned  
Huntington, NY Telephonics Manufacturing 90,000
 Owned  
Huntington, NY Telephonics Manufacturing 100,000
 Leased 2016
Columbia, MD Telephonics Engineering 25,000
 Leased 2015
Elizabeth City, NC Telephonics Repair and Service 22,000
 Leased 2039
Mason, OH Home & Building Products/ Clopay Plastic Products Office/R&D 131,000
 Owned  
Aschersleben, Germany Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 289,000
 Owned  
Dombuhl, Germany Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 124,000
 Owned  
Augusta, KY Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 354,000
 Owned  
Nashville, TN Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 210,000
 Owned  
Nashville, TN Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 190,000
 Leased 2019
Jundiai, Brazil Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 114,000
 Owned  
Hangzhou, China Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 44,000
 Leased 2015
Istanbul, Turkey Clopay Plastic Products Manufacturing 30,000
 Leased 2014
Troy, OH Home & Building Products Manufacturing 867,000
 Leased 2021
Russia, OH Home & Building Products Manufacturing 339,000
 Owned  
Carlisle, PA Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution 1,227,000
 Leased 2015
Reno, NV Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution 400,000
 Leased 2017
Camp Hill, PA Home & Building Products Office, Manufacturing 380,000
 Leased 2020
Harrisburg, PA Home & Building Products Manufacturing 264,000
 Owned  
St. Francois, Quebec Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution 353,000
 Owned  
Falls City, NE Home & Building Products Manufacturing 82,000
 Owned 
Cork, Ireland Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution 74,000
 Owned  
Victoria, Australia Home & Building Products Manufacturing, Distribution 32,000
 Leased 2016
Victoria, Australia Home & Building Products Manufacturing 29,000
 Leased 2017
Victoria, Australia Home & Building Products Distribution 57,000
 Leased 2017
New South Wales, Australia Home & Building Products Distribution 32,000
 Leased 2017
New South Wales, Australia Home & Building Products Manufacturing 72,000
 Leased 2015

Griffon also leases approximately 1,030,0001,000,000 square feet of space for the CBP distribution centers in numerous facilities throughout the U.S. and in Canada. In addition, GriffonAMES owns approximately 200,000 square feet of space for the ATT wood mills in the U.S.

and leases approximately 250,000 square feet of additional distribution facility space throughout Australia.


All facilities are generally well maintained and suitable for the operations conducted.


Item 3.Legal Proceedings

Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

Griffon is involved in litigation, investigations and claims arising out of the normal conduct of business, including those relating to commercial transactions, product liability and warranty claims, environmental, employment, and health and safety matters.  Griffon estimates and accrues liabilities resulting from such matters based on a variety of factors, including the stage of the proceeding; potential settlement value; assessments by internal and external counsel; and assessments by environmental engineers and consultants of potential environmental liabilities and remediation costs.  Such estimates are not discounted to reflect the time value of money due to the uncertainty in estimating the timing of the expenditures, which may extend over several years.

26

While it is impossible to ascertain the ultimate legal and financial liability with respect to certain contingent liabilities and claims, Griffon believes, based upon examination of currently available information, experience to date, and advice from legal counsel, that the individual and aggregate liabilities resulting from the ultimate resolution of these contingent matters, after taking into consideration our existing insurance coverage and amounts already provided for, will not have a material adverse impact on consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Item 4.Reserved


Item 4.    Reserved


21


PART II



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

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

Griffon’s Common Stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “GFF”. The following table shows, for the periods indicated, the quarterly range in the high and low sales prices for Griffon’s Common Stock and the amount of dividends paid during the last two years:

  Fiscal 2013  Fiscal 2012    
  Market Prices  Dividends  Market Prices  Dividends 
  High  Low  Per Share  High  Low  Per Share 
Quarter ended December 31, $11.50  $8.03  $0.025  $10.55  $7.34  $0.02 
Quarter ended March 31,  12.24   10.85   0.025   11.40   9.08   0.02 
Quarter ended June 30,  12.08   9.73   0.025   10.75   7.54   0.02 
Quarter ended September 30,  12.68   10.85   0.025   11.08   8.29   0.02 
          $0.100          $0.08 

 Fiscal 2014 Fiscal 2013  
 Market Prices Dividends Market Prices Dividends
 High Low Per Share High Low Per Share
Quarter ended December 31,$13.64
 $11.87
 $0.03
 $11.50
 $8.03
 $0.025
Quarter ended March 31,14.34
 11.73
 0.03
 12.24
 10.85
 0.025
Quarter ended June 30,12.55
 10.45
 0.03
 12.08
 9.73
 0.025
Quarter ended September 30,12.77
 10.43
 0.03
 12.68
 10.85
 0.025
  
  
 $0.12
  
  
 $0.100

Dividends


On November 17, 2011, the Company began declaring quarterly cash dividends. During 2012, the Company declared and paid quarterly dividends of $0.02 per share, totaling $0.08 per share for the year. During 2013, the Company declared and paid quarterly dividends of $0.025 per share, totaling $0.10 per share for the year. During 2014, the Company declared and paid quarterly dividends of $0.03 per share, totaling $0.12 per share for the year. No cash dividends on Common Stock were declared or paid during the threetwo years ended September 30, 2011. The Company currently intends to pay dividends each quarter; however, the payment of dividends is determined by the Board of Directors, at its discretion based on various factors, and no assurance can be provided as to the payment of future dividends.


On November 13, 2013,12, 2014, the Company declared a $0.03$0.04 per share dividend payable on December 24, 201323, 2014 to shareholders of record as of December 5, 2013.

3, 2014.


Holders


As of October 31, 2013,2014, there were approximately 12,00011,000 record holders of Griffon’s Common Stock.


Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans


Information regarding securities authorized for issuance under Griffon’s equity compensation plans is contained in Part III, Item 12 of this Form 10-K.


Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities

27

The table below presents shares of Griffon Stock which were acquired by Griffon during the fourth quarter of 2013:

2014:


22



ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Period (a) Total Number
of Shares (or
Units) Purchased
  (b) Average
Price Paid Per
Share (or Unit)
  (c) Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
(1)
  (d) Maximum Number
(or Approximate
Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units) That
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
 
July 1 - 31, 2013  13,020  $11.02   13,020     
August 1 - 31, 2013  134,353  (2)  11.70   120,900     
September 1 - 30, 2013  448,154  (3)  11.42   357,540     
                 
Total  595,527  $11.47   491,460  $12,027  (4)

Period
(a) Total Number
of Shares (or
Units) Purchased
  
(b) Average
Price Paid Per
Share (or Unit)
 
(c) Total Number of
Shares (or Units)
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
(1)
 
(d) Maximum Number
(or Approximate
Dollar Value) of
Shares (or Units) That
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
 
July 1 - 31, 2014160,000
(1) $12.44
 160,000
  
 
August 1 - 31, 20143,076
(2) 11.19
 
  
 
September 1 - 30, 2014408,246
(3) 12.27
 398,150
  
 
Total571,322
  $12.31
 558,150
 $38,860
(1)
1.Shares were purchased by the Company in open market purchases pursuant to share repurchase plans authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors.
2.Includes (a) 120,900 shares purchased by the Company in open market purchases pursuant to a stock buyback plan authorized by On May 1, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors and (b) 13,453authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of Griffon common stock; as of September 30, 2014, $38,860 remained available for purchase under this program.
2.Includes 3,076 shares acquired by the Company from holders of restricted stock upon vesting of the restricted stock to satisfy tax withholding obligations of the holders.
3.Includes (a) 357,540398,150 shares purchased by the Company in open market purchases pursuant to a stock buyback plan authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors and (b) 90,61410,096 shares acquired by the Company from a holderthe holders of restricted stock upon vesting of the restricted stock to satisfy tax withholding obligations of the holders.
4.On August 2, 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of Griffon common stock; as of September 30, 2013, $12,027 remained available for the purchase of Griffon common stock under this program.

28


23



Performance Graph

The performance graph does not constitute soliciting material, is not deemed filed with the SEC and is not incorporated by reference in any of Griffon’s filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act of 1934, whether made before or after the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and irrespective of any general incorporation language in any such filings, except to the extent Griffon specifically incorporates this performance graph by reference therein.


The following graph sets forth the cumulative total return to Griffon’s stockholders during the five years ended September 30, 2013,2014, as well as an overall stock market (S&P Small Cap 600 Index) and Griffon’s peer group index (Dow Jones U.S. Diversified Industrials Index). Assumes $100 was invested on September 30, 2007,2009, including the reinvestment of dividends, in each category.



COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*

Among Griffon Corporation, the S&P Smallcap 600 Index

and the Dow Jones US Diversified Industrials Index

 

*$100 invested on 9/30/08 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends.

29













24


Item 6.    Selected Financial Data
 For the Years Ended September 30,
(in thousands, except per share amounts)2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
Revenue$1,991,811
 $1,871,327
 $1,861,145
 $1,830,802
 $1,293,996
          
Income (loss) before taxes and discontinued operations$(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941
 $(14,349) $13,812
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(5,539) 7,543
 4,930
 (6,918) 4,308
Income (loss) from continuing operations(177) 6,790
 17,011
 (7,431) 9,504
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
 (3,023) 
 
 88
Net Income (loss)$(177) $3,767
 $17,011
 $(7,431) $9,592
          
Basic earnings (loss) per share: 
  
  
  
  
Continuing operations$0.00
 $0.12
 $0.30
 $(0.13) $0.16
Discontinued operations
 (0.06) 
 
 0.00
Net income (loss)$0.00
 $0.07
 $0.30
 $(0.13) $0.16
Weighted average shares outstanding49,367
 54,428
 55,914
 58,919
 58,974
          
Diluted earnings (loss) per share: 
  
  
  
  
Continuing operations$0.00
 $0.12
 $0.30
 $(0.13) $0.16
Discontinued operations
 (0.05) 
 
 0.00
Net income (loss)$0.00
 $0.07
 $0.30
 $(0.13) $0.16
Weighted average shares outstanding49,367
 56,563
 57,329
 58,919
 59,993
          
Cash dividends declared per common share$0.12
 $0.10
 $0.08
 $
 $
          
Capital expenditures$77,094
 $64,441
 $68,851
 $87,617
 $40,477
Depreciation and amortization$67,396
 $70,748
 $66,264
 $60,712
 $40,442
Total assets$1,820,361
 $1,777,608
 $1,802,921
 $1,861,983
 $1,750,430
          
Current portion of debt, net of debt discount$7,886
 $10,768
 $17,703
 $25,164
 $20,901
Long term portion of debt, net of debt discount805,101
 678,487
 681,907
 688,247
 503,935
Total debt, net of debt discount$812,987
 $689,255
 $699,610
 $713,411
 $524,836
Item 6.Selected Financial Data

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
(in thousands, except per share amounts) 2013  2012  2011  2010  2009 
Revenue $1,871,327  $1,861,145  $1,830,802  $1,293,996  $1,194,050 
                     
Income (loss) before taxes and discontinued operations  14,333   21,941   (14,349)  13,812   19,605 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  7,543   4,930   (6,918)  4,308   1,687 
Income (loss) from continuing operations  6,790   17,011   (7,431)  9,504   17,918 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations  (3,023)        88   790 
Net Income (loss) $3,767  $17,011  $(7,431) $9,592  $18,708 
                     
Basic earnings (loss) per share:                    
Continuing operations $0.12  $0.30  $(0.13) $0.16  $0.31 
Discontinued operations  (0.06)        0.00   0.01 
Net income (loss)  0.07   0.30   (0.13)  0.16   0.32 
                     
Weighted average shares outstanding  54,428   55,914   58,919   58,974   58,699 
                     
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:                    
Continuing operations $0.12  $0.30  $(0.13) $0.16  $0.30 
Discontinued operations  (0.05)        0.00   0.01 
Net income (loss)  0.07   0.30   (0.13)  0.16   0.32 
                     
Weighted average shares outstanding  56,563   57,329   58,919   59,993   59,002 
                     
Capital expenditures $64,441  $68,851  $87,617  $40,477  $32,697 
Depreciation and amortization  70,748   66,264   60,712   40,442   42,346 
Total assets  1,788,779   1,806,192   1,865,254   1,753,701   1,143,891 
                     
Current portion of debt, net of debt discount  10,768   17,703   25,164   20,901   78,590 
Long term portion of debt, net of debt discount  678,487   681,907   688,247   503,935   98,394 
Total debt, net of debt discount  689,255   699,610   713,411   524,836   176,984 

Notes:Due to the acquisition of ATT occurring on September 30, 2010, none of ATT’s 2010 and prior resultsResults of operations werefrom acquired businesses are included from the date of acquisition forward.  The fair value of assets and liabilities, inclusive of changes resulting from operating the businesses, are included in Griffon’s results.  The Griffon consolidated balance sheets from September 30, 2010 forward,the first period ended after the date of each acquisition, and related notes thereto, include ATT’s balances.
2013 includes $13,262 of restructuring charges ($8,266, net of tax, or $0.15 per share) and a loss on pension settlement of $2,142 ($1,392, net of tax, or $0.02 per share).
2012 includes $4,689 of restructuring charges ($3,048, net of tax, or $0.05 per share) and $477 of acquisition related costs ($310, net of tax, or $0.01 per share).
2011 includes $26,164 ($16,813, net of tax, or $0.29 per share) of loss on debt extinguishment; $15,152 ($9,849, net of tax, or $0.17 per share) of increased cost of goods sold related to the sale of inventory recorded at fair value in connection with acquisition accounting for ATT; and $7,543 ($4,903, net of tax, or $0.08 per share) of restructuring charges.
2010 includes $9,805 ($7,704, net of tax, or $0.13 per share) of ATT related acquisition costs; $4,180 ($2,717, net of tax, or $0.05 per share) of restructuring charges; and $1,117 ($726, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) of loss on debt extinguishment.
2009 includes a $4,488 ($2,917, net of tax, or $0.05 per share) of gain on debt extinguishment and $1,240 ($806, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) of restructuring charges.
Due to rounding, the sum of earnings per share of Continuing operations and Discontinued operations may not equal earnings per share or Net income.all periods thereafter.

30

2014 includes $6,136 of restructuring charges ($3,804, net of tax, or $0.07 per share), $3,161 of acquisition costs ($1,960, net of tax, or $0.04 per share), $38,890 loss on debt extinguishment ($24,964, net of tax, or $0.49 per share) and discrete tax benefits, net, of $4,674 or $0.09 per share.

2013 includes $13,262 of restructuring charges ($8,266, net of tax, or $0.15 per share), a loss on pension settlement of $2,142 ($1,392, net of tax, or $0.02 per share) and discrete tax benefits, net, of $325 or $0.01 per share.

2012 includes $4,689 of restructuring charges ($3,048, net of tax, or $0.05 per share), $477 of acquisition related costs ($310, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) and discrete tax benefits, net, of $5,110, or $0.09 per share.

2011 includes $26,164 ($16,813, net of tax, or $0.29 per share) of loss on debt extinguishment; $15,152 ($9,849, net of tax, or $0.17 per share) of increased cost of goods sold related to the sale of inventory recorded at fair value in connection with acquisition accounting for AMES; $7,543 ($4,903, net of tax, or $0.08 per share) of restructuring charges; and $4,570, or $0.08 per share of discrete tax benefits, net.

2010 includes $9,805 ($7,704, net of tax, or $0.13 per share) of acquisition costs; $4,180 ($2,717, net of tax, or $0.05 per share) of restructuring charges; $1,117 ($726, net of tax, or $0.01 per share) of loss on debt extinguishment; and $2,307, or $0.04 per share of discrete tax benefits, net.

Due to rounding, the sum of earnings per share of Continuing operations and Discontinued operations may not equal earnings per share or Net income.

25




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


(Unless otherwise indicated, all references to years or year-end refers to the fiscal year ending September 30 and dollars are in thousands, except per share data)


OVERVIEW


The Company


Griffon Corporation (the “Company” or “Griffon”) is a diversified management and holding company that conductsconducting business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. Griffon oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. Griffon provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connection with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. Griffon, to further diversify, also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital.


Headquartered in New York, N.Y., the Company was founded in 1959 and is incorporated in Delaware. Griffon is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the symbol GFF.


Griffon currently conducts its operations through three reportable segments: Telephonics Corporation (“Telephonics”), Home & Building Products (“HBP”) and Clopay Plastic Products Company (“Plastics”).


HBP consists of two companies, The AMES Companies, Inc. (“AMES”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”). HBP accounted for 49% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, and 46% in both 2013 and 2012:

·
HBP consists of two companies, Ames True Temper, Inc (“ATT”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”). HBP accounted for 46% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2013, 2012 and 2011:

-ATT, acquired on September 30, 2010,AMES is a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals. ATT’sAMES’ revenue was 23%25% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, and 23% in both 2013 and 2012, and 24% in 2011.2012.


-
CBP is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains. CBP’s revenue was 23% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2013 and 2012, and 22% in 2011.

·Telephonics designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions for military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics’ revenue was 24% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in both 20132014, and 2012, and 25% in 2011.

·Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.  Plastics’ revenue was 30% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue23% in both 2013 and 2012, and 29% in 2011.2012.

31

Telephonics designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions for military and commercial markets worldwide. Telephonics’ revenue was 21% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, and 24% in both 2013 and 2012.


Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.  Plastics’ revenue was 30% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue in 2014, 2013 and 2012.

On May 21, 2014, AMES acquired the Australian Garden and Tools division of Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (“Cyclone”) for approximately $40,000, including a $4,000 working capital adjustment. Cyclone offers a full range of quality garden and hand tool products sold under various leading brand names including Cyclone®, Nylex® and Trojan®, designed to meet the requirements of both the Do-it-Yourself and professional trade segments.

On December 31, 2013, AMES acquired Northcote Pottery (“Northcote”), founded in 1897 and a leading brand in the Australian outdoor planter and decor market, for approximately $22,000. Northcote complements Southern Patio®, acquired in 2011, and adds to AMES’ existing lawn and garden operations in Australia.

CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


2014 Compared to 2013

Revenue for the year ended September 30, 2014 was $1,991,811, compared to $1,871,327 in the prior year, with the increase driven by HBP and Plastics. Gross profit for 2014 was $459,399 compared to $417,585 in 2013, with gross margin as a percent of sales (“gross margin”) of 23.1% and 22.3%, respectively.


26


Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses increased $34,630 to $375,099 in 2014 from $340,469 in 2013 in support of the increased level of sales and due to the inclusion of Northcote and Cyclone expenses from their respective acquisition dates. SG&A for 2014, as a percent of revenue, increased to 18.8% from 18.2% in 2013. SG&A included $3,161 of acquisition related expenses in 2014, and a $2,142 pension settlement loss resulting from the lump-sum buyout of certain participant’s balances in the Company’s defined benefit plan in 2013.

Interest expense in 2014 totaled $48,447, a decrease of $4,073 compared to the prior year, primarily driven by lower average borrowing rates as a result of the Senior Notes refinancing, partially offset by increased debt levels.

Other income of $3,154 in 2014 and $2,646 in 2013 consists primarily of currency exchange transaction gains and losses from receivables and payables held in non-functional currencies, and net gains on investments.

Griffon reported a pretax loss for the year ended September 30, 2014 compared to pretax income for the prior year. In 2014, the Company recognized a tax benefit from continuing operations of 96.9% compared to a provision of 52.6% in 2013.  The 2014 and 2013 rates reflected net discrete benefits of $4,674 and $325, respectively, resulting from release of previously established reserves for uncertain tax positions on conclusion of tax audits, the filing of tax returns in various jurisdictions and tax basis review and adjustment for the impact of tax law changes enacted; the 2013 discrete amount also reflected net benefits resulting from various tax planning initiatives in prior years and the retroactive extension of the federal R&D credit signed into law January 2, 2013. Excluding discrete tax items, the 2014 rate would have been a benefit of 15.1%, and the 2013 rate would have been a provision of 54.9%. In both years, the effective rates reflect the impact of permanent differences not deductible in determining taxable income, mainly limited deductibility of restricted stock, tax reserves and of changes in earnings mix between domestic and non-domestic operations, all of which are material relative to the level of pretax result.

Net loss from continuing operations was $177, or $0.00 per share, for 2014 compared to income of $6,790, or $0.12 cents per share in the prior year. The current year results included:

Loss from debt extinguishment of $38,890 ($24,964, net of tax or $0.49 per share);

Restructuring charges of $6,136 ($3,804, net of tax, or $0.07 per share);

Acquisition costs of $3,161 ($1,960, net of tax, or $0.04 per share); and

Discrete tax benefits, net, of $4,674 or $0.09 per share

The prior year results included:

Restructuring charges of $13,262 ($8,266, net of tax, or $0.15 per share);

Loss on pension settlement of $2,142 ($1,392, net of tax or $0.02 per share); and

Discrete tax benefits, net, of $325 or $0.01 per share.

Excluding these items from both reporting periods, 2014 Net income from continuing operations would have been $25,877 thousand, or $0.51 per share compared to $16,123, or $0.29 per share, in 2013.

2013 Compared to 2012


Revenue for the year ended September 30, 2013 was $1,871,327, compared to $1,861,145 in the prior year, with the increase driven by Telephonics. Gross profit for 2013 was $417,585 compared to $418,805 in 2012, with gross margin as a percent of sales (“gross margin”) of 22.3% and 22.5%, respectively.


Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”)&A expenses decreased $1,227 to $340,469 in 2013 from $341,696 in 2012. SG&A expenses as a percent of revenue for 2013 decreased to 18.2% from 18.4% in 2012.In 2013, SG&A included a $2,142 non-cash, pension settlement loss resulting from the lump-sum buyout of certain participant’s balances in the Company’s defined benefit plan. Theplan; the buyouts, funded by the pension plan, reduced the Company’sCompany's net pension liability by $3,472.

SG&A expenses in 2012 included $477 of acquisition-related expenses.


Interest expense in 2013 totaled $52,520, and was in-line with the prior year of $52,007.



27


Other income of $2,646 in 2013 and $1,236 in 2012 consists primarily of currency exchange transaction gains and losses from receivables and payables held in non functionalnon-functional currencies, and net gains on investments.


Griffon’s effective tax rate for continuing operations for 2013 was 52.6% compared to a benefit of 22.5% in 2012.  The 2013 rate reflected net discrete benefits of $325 primarily resulting from release of previously established reserves for uncertain tax positions on conclusion of tax audits, benefits from various tax planning initiatives, in the prior year and benefits/provisionsbenefits arising on the filing of tax returns in various jurisdictions. The 2012 rate reflected net discrete benefits of $5,110 primarily from the release of previously established reserves for uncertain tax positions on conclusion of various tax audits, and benefits related to various tax planning initiatives.  Excluding discrete tax items, the 2013 rate would have been 54.9%, and the 2012 ratebenefit would have been 45.8%. In both years, the effective rates reflect the impact of permanent differences not deductible in determining taxable income, mainly limited deductibility of restricted stock, tax reserves and of changes in earnings mix between domestic and non-domestic operations, all of which are material relative to the level of pretax result.


Net income from continuing operations was $6,790, or $0.12 per share, for 2013 compared to $17,011 or $0.30 cents per share in the prior year. The current year results included:

-Restructuring charges of $13,262 ($8,266, net of tax, or $0.15 per share);
-Loss on pension settlement of $2,142 ($1,392, net of tax or $0.02 per share); and
-Discrete tax benefits, net, of $325 or $0.01 per share.


Restructuring charges of $13,262 ($8,266, net of tax, or $0.15 per share);

Loss on pension settlement of $2,142 ($1,392, net of tax or $0.02 per share); and

Discrete tax benefits, net, of $325 or $0.01 per share.

The prior year results included:

-Restructuring charges of $4,689 ($3,048, net of tax, or $0.05 per share);
-Acquisition and integration costs of $477 ($310, net of tax, or $0.01 per share); and
-Discrete tax benefits, net, of $5,110, or $0.09 per share.


Restructuring charges of $4,689 ($3,048, net of tax, or $0.05 per share);

Acquisition and integration costs of $477 ($310, net of tax, or $0.01 per share); and

Discrete tax benefits, net, of $5,110, or $0.09 per share.

Excluding these items from both reporting periods, 2013 Net income from continuing operations would have been $16,123, or $0.29 per share compared to $15,259, or $0.27 per share, in 2012.

2012 Compared to 2011

Revenue for the year ended September 30, 2012 was $1,861,145, compared to $1,830,802 in the prior year, with the increase driven by HBP and Plastics. Gross profit for 2012 was $418,805 compared to $393,461 in 2011, with gross margin as a percent of sales of 22.5% and 21.5%, respectively. Gross profit for 2011 reflected $15,152 of costs of goods related to the sale of inventory recorded at fair value in connection with the ATT acquisition accounting; excluding this amount, 2011 gross profit was $408,613 with a gross margin of 22.3%.

32

SG&A expenses increased $11,327 to $341,696 in 2012 from $330,369 in 2011 in support of the increased level of sales anddue to the inclusion of Southern Patio’s expenses; Southern Patio was acquired in October 2011. SG&A expenses as a percent of revenue for 2012 increased to 18.4% from 18.0% in 2011.

Interest expense in 2012 totaled $52,007, an increase of $4,161 compared to the prior year, primarily as a result of the increased debt resulting from the 2011 refinancing of domestic subsidiary debt incurred in connection with the ATT acquisition.

During 2011, in connection with the termination of a previously existing term loan, asset-backed credit facility and cash flow credit facility, Griffon recorded a $26,164 loss on extinguishment of debt consisting of $21,617 of deferred financing charges and original issuer discounts, a call premium of $3,703 on the previous term loan, and $844 of swap and other breakage costs.

Other income of $1,236 in 2012 and $3,714 in 2011 consists primarily of currency exchange transaction gains and losses from receivables and payables held in non functional currencies, and net gains on investments.

Griffon’s effective tax rate for 2012 was 22.5% compared to a benefit of 48.2% in 2011.  The 2012 rate reflected net discrete benefits of $5,110 primarily from the release of previously established reserves for uncertain tax positions on conclusion of various tax audits, and benefits related to various tax planning initiatives.  The 2011 rate reflected net discrete benefits of $4,570 primarily from tax planning related to unremitted foreign earnings.  Excluding discrete tax items, the 2012 rate would have been 45.8%, and the 2011 benefit would have been 16.4%. In both years, the effective rates reflect the impact of permanent differences not deductible in determining taxable income, mainly limited deductibility of restricted stock, as well as the impact of tax reserves and changes in earnings mix between domestic and non-domestic operations, all of which are material relative to the level of pretax result.

Net income from continuing operations was $17,011, or $0.30 per share, for 2012 compared to a loss of $7,431 or $0.13 cents per share in the prior year. The current year results included:

-Restructuring charges of $4,689 ($3,048, net of tax, or $0.05 per share);
-Acquisition and integration costs of $477 ($310, net of tax, or $0.01 per share); and
-Discrete tax benefits, net, of $5,110, or $0.09 per share.

The prior year results included:

-Charges of $26,164 ($16,813, net of tax, or $0.29 per share) resulting from the refinancing of ATT acquisition related debt;
-$15,152 ($9,849, net of tax, or $0.17 per share) of increased cost of goods related to the sale of inventory recorded at fair value in connection with acquisition accounting for ATT;
-Restructuring charges of $7,543 ($4,903, net of tax, or $0.08 per share);
-Acquisition costs of $446 ($290, net of tax, or $0.00 per share); and
-Discrete tax benefits, net, of $4,570, or $0.08 per share.

Excluding these items from both reporting periods, 2012 Net income from continuing operations would have been $15,259, or $0.27 per share compared to $19,854, or $0.34 per share, in 2011.

33

Griffon evaluates performance based on Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations and Net income (loss) from continuing operations excluding, as applicable, restructuring charges, gains (losses) from pension settlement and debt extinguishment, acquisition-related expenses, including the impact of the fair value of inventory acquired as part of a business combination, and discrete tax items (a non-GAAP measure). Griffon believes this information is useful to investors for the same reason. The following table provides a reconciliation of Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations and Net income (loss) from continuing operations to Adjusted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations and Adjusted net income (loss) from continuing operations:


28


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

RECONCILIATION OF INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
TO ADJUSTED INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
          
Income (loss) from continuing operations $6,790  $17,011  $(7,431)
             
Adjusting items, net of tax:            
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        16,813 
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold        9,849 
Restructuring and related  8,266   3,048   4,903 
Acquisition costs     310   290 
Loss on pension settlement  1,392       
Discrete tax benefits  (325)  (5,110)  (4,570)
             
Adjusted income from continuing operations $16,123  $15,259  $19,854 
             
Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations $0.12  $0.30  $(0.13)
             
Adjusting items, net of tax:            
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        0.29 
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold        0.17 
Restructuring  0.15   0.05   0.08 
Acquisition costs     0.01   0.00 
Loss on pension settlement  0.02       
Discrete tax benefits  (0.01)  (0.09)  (0.08)
             
Adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations  0.29  $0.27  $0.34 
             
Weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands)  56,563   57,329   58,919 
34
(Unaudited)

 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(177) $6,790
 $17,011
Adjusting items, net of tax: 
  
  
Loss from debt extinguishment24,964
 
 
Restructuring3,804
 8,266
 3,048
Acquisition costs1,960
 
 310
Loss on pension settlement
 1,392
 
Discrete tax benefits(4,674) (325) (5,110)
Adjusted income from continuing operations$25,877
 $16,123
 $15,259
Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations$0.00
 $0.12
 $0.30
Adjusting items, net of tax: 
  
  
Loss from debt extinguishment0.49
 
 
Restructuring0.07
 0.15
 0.05
Acquisition costs0.04
 
 0.01
Loss on pension settlement
 0.02
 
Discrete tax benefits(0.09) (0.01) (0.09)
Adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations$0.51
 $0.29
 $0.27

REPORTABLE SEGMENTS


The following table provides a reconciliation of Segment operating profit to Income (loss) before taxesand discontinued operations:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES 2013  2012  2011 
Segment operating profit:         
Home & Building Products $26,130  $37,082  $28,228 
Telephonics  55,076   49,232   40,595 
Plastics  16,589   13,688   13,308 
Total segment operating profit  97,795   100,002   82,131 
Net interest expense  (52,167)  (51,715)  (47,448)
Unallocated amounts  (29,153)  (26,346)  (22,868)
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        (26,164)
Loss on pension settlement  (2,142)      
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations $14,333  $21,941  $(14,349)

 For the Years Ended September 30,
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES2014 2013 2012
Segment operating profit:     
Home & Building Products$40,538
 $26,130
 $37,082
Telephonics45,293
 55,076
 49,232
Plastics28,881
 16,589
 13,688
Total segment operating profit114,712
 97,795
 100,002
Net interest expense(48,144) (52,167) (51,715)
Unallocated amounts(33,394) (29,153) (26,346)
Loss from debt extinguishment(38,890) 
 
Loss on pension settlement
 (2,142) 
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations$(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941

Griffon evaluates performance and allocates resources based on each segments’ operating results before interest income and expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, unallocated amounts (mainly corporate overhead), restructuring charges, acquisition-related expenses including the impact of the fair value of inventory acquired as part of a business combination, and gains (losses) from pension settlement and debt extinguishment, as applicable (“Segment adjusted EBITDA”, a non-GAAP measure). Griffon believes this information is useful to investors for the same reason.


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The following table provides a reconciliation of Segment adjusted EBITDA to Income (loss) before taxes and discontinued operations:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Segment adjusted EBITDA:            
Home & Building Products $70,064  $70,467  $77,119 
Telephonics  63,199   60,565   50,875 
Plastics  48,100   40,000   37,639 
             
Total Segment adjusted EBITDA  181,363   171,032   165,633 
Net interest expense  (52,167)  (51,715)  (47,448)
Segment depreciation and amortization  (70,306)  (65,864)  (60,361)
Unallocated amounts  (29,153)  (26,346)  (22,868)
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        (26,164)
Restructuring charges  (13,262)  (4,689)  (7,543)
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold        (15,152)
Acquisition costs     (477)  (446)
Loss on pension settlement  (2,142)      
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations $14,333  $21,941  $(14,349)
35

 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Segment adjusted EBITDA: 
  
  
Home & Building Products$77,171
 $70,064
 $70,467
Telephonics57,525
 63,199
 60,565
Plastics56,291
 48,100
 40,000
Total Segment adjusted EBITDA190,987
 181,363
 171,032
Net interest expense(48,144) (52,167) (51,715)
Segment depreciation and amortization(66,978) (70,306) (65,864)
Unallocated amounts(33,394) (29,153) (26,346)
Loss from debt extinguishment(38,890) 
 
Restructuring charges(6,136) (13,262) (4,689)
Acquisition costs(3,161) 
 (477)
Loss on pension settlement
 (2,142) 
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations$(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941

Home & Building Products

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Revenue:               
ATT $419,549   $433,866   $434,789  
CBP  435,416    422,674    404,947  
Home & Building Products $854,965   $856,540   $839,736  
                
Segment operating profit $26,1303.1% $37,0824.3% $28,2283.4%
Depreciation and amortization  36,195    32,034    28,796  
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold          15,152  
Restructuring charges  7,739    874    4,497  
Acquisition costs      477    446  
Segment adjusted EBITDA $70,0648.2% $70,4678.2% $77,1199.2%

 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Revenue:           
AMES$503,687
   $419,549
   $433,866
  
CBP475,756
   435,416
   422,674
  
Home & Building Products$979,443
   $854,965
   $856,540
  
Segment operating profit$40,538
 4.1% $26,130
 3.1% $37,082
 4.3%
Depreciation and amortization31,580
   36,195
   32,034
  
Restructuring charges1,892
   7,739
   874
  
Acquisition costs3,161
   
   477
  
Segment adjusted EBITDA$77,171
 7.9% $70,064
 8.2% $70,467
 8.2%

2014 Compared to 2013

Segment revenue increased $124,478, or 15%, compared to the prior year. AMES revenue increased 20%, mainly driven by inclusion of Northcote and Cyclone results (10%) from acquisition date, improved U.S. pots and planter sales (3%), and increased snow tool sales (7%). CBP revenue increased 9% due to increased volume (7%) and favorable product mix (2%). Segment revenue reflected the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation of a weaker Canadian dollar (1%).

Segment operating profit in 2014 was $40,538 compared to $26,130 in 2013. The current and prior years included $1,892 and $7,739, respectively, of restructuring charges primarily related to the previously announced manufacturing and operations consolidation initiative at AMES, and the current year included $3,161 of acquisition costs related to the Northcote and Cyclone transactions. Excluding restructuring charges and acquisition costs, 2014 Segment operating profit totaled $45,591, an increase of $11,722 or 35% over the prior year comparable amount of $33,869, with the improvement due to increased volume and favorable product mix at CBP, and the contributions from Northcote and Cyclone (16%), partially offset by increased AMES' distribution and freight costs. AMES also continued to experience manufacturing inefficiencies in connection with its plant consolidation initiative, which are expected to continue until the initiative is complete at the end of calendar 2014. Segment operating profit included the unfavorable impact of foreign currency translation of a weaker Canadian dollar (4%). The prior year benefited from $1,000 in Byrd Amendment receipts (anti-dumping compensation from the government); current year Byrd Amendment receipts were not significant. Segment depreciation and amortization decreased $4,615 from the prior year.

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On May 21, 2014, AMES acquired Cyclone for approximately $40,000, including a $4,000 working capital adjustment. Cyclone offers a full range of quality garden and hand tool products sold under various leading brand names including Cyclone®, Nylex® and Trojan®, designed to meet the requirements of both the Do-it-Yourself and professional trade segments. Cyclone is expected to generate approximately $65,000 of annualized revenue. Current year SG&A expenses included $2,363 of Cylone-related acquisition costs.

On December 31, 2013, AMES acquired Northcote, a leading brand in the Australian outdoor planter and decor market, for approximately $22,000. Northcote complements Southern Patio®, acquired in 2011, and adds to AMES’ existing lawn and garden operations in Australia. Northcote is expected to generate approximately $28,000 of annualized revenue. Current year SG&A expenses included $798 of Northcote-related acquisition costs.

2013 Compared to 2012


Segment revenue decreased $1,575,or less than 1%, compared to the prior year. CBP revenue increased 3% from the prior year, primarily due to somewhat higher volume (2%) and favorable mix (1%). ATTAMES revenue decreased 3% compared to the prior year. ATTAMES snow tool sales were impacted by lack of snowfall during the snow season and resultant reduced demand for snow tools; in addition, retailers held high levels of snow tool inventory carried over from the prior year, further affecting 2013 snow tool sales. ATTAMES' sales in North America were also impacted by unfavorable weather conditions throughout the spring season planting season, impacting lawn and garden tool sales.


Segment operating profit in 2013 was $26,130 compared to $37,082 in 2012. The current year period included $7,739 of restructuring charges primarily related to the previously announced manufacturing and operations consolidation initiative at ATT.AMES. Excluding restructuring charges, current year Segment operating profit was $33,869. The decrease from the prior year resulted from the impact of lower ATTreduced AMES revenue, which affected absorption of manufacturing expenses, and manufacturing inefficiencies arising in connection with the plant consolidation initiative, partially offset by reduced warehouse and distribution costs, other cost control initiatives and an $873 increase in Byrd Amendment receipts (anti-dumping compensation from the U.S. government).receipts. Improved CBP higher volume, favorable mix and improved distribution and manufacturing efficiencies contributed to the reported profit. Segment depreciation and amortization increased $4,161 from the prior year.


Restructuring and Acquisition Expenses

In 2014, 2013 and 2012 Compared to 2011

Segment revenue increased $16,804,or 2%, compared to the prior year. ATT revenue was flat with the prior year, mainly because of weak snow tool sales, driven by the absence of snow throughout much of the country during the 2011-2012 winter, and lower lawn tool volume due to the severe drought conditions experienced throughout much of the U.S. during the year. These declines were substantially offset by the inclusion of Southern Patio, acquired in October 2011. CBP revenue increased 4% due to a combination of favorable mix (2%) and higher volume (2%).

Segment operating profit in 2012 was $37,082 compared to $28,228 in 2011. Segment operating results in 2011 reflected $15,152 of costs of goods related to the sale of inventory recorded at fair value in connection with the ATT acquisition accounting; excluding the $15,152 of costs, segment operating profit would have been $43,380 for 2011. The decline in operating profit in 2012 from the adjusted $43,380 in 2011 resulted from the weak snow tool sales and lower lawn tool volume. The impact of these declines was partially offset by the inclusion of Southern Patio, as well as improved CBP profitability driven by improved volume, favorable mix, lower warehouse and distribution costs, and lower restructuring costs.

36

Restructuring

In 2013, 2012 and 2011, HBP recognized $1,892, $7,739 $874 and $4,497,$874, respectively, of restructuring and other related exit costs primarily related to one-time termination benefits, facility and other personnel costs, and asset impairment charges. In 2012 and 2011,2014, HBP had $477$3,161 of acquisition and $446,integration costs related to Northcote and Cyclone, and in 2013 and 2012, had $0 and $477, respectively, of acquisition and integration costs related to the Southern Patio acquisition.Patio®. Over the three-year period, HBP headcount was reduced by 144.

206 as a result of these actions.


In January 2013, ATTAMES announced its intention to close certain of its manufacturing facilities and consolidate affected operations primarily into its Camp Hill and Carlisle, PA locations. The intended actions, to be completed by the end of calendar 2014, will improve manufacturing and distribution efficiencies, allow for in-sourcing of certain production currently performed by third party suppliers, and improve material flow and absorption of fixed costs.

ATT Management estimates that these actions will result in annual cash savings exceeding $10,000 based on current operating levels; these savings are consistent with those anticipated at the onset of the initiative.


AMES anticipates incurring pre-tax restructuring and related exit costs approximating $8,000, comprised of cash charges of $4,000 and non-cash, asset-related charges of $4,000; cash charges will include $3,000$2,500 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel-related costs and $1,000$1,500 for facility exit costs. ATTAMES expects $20,000 in capital expenditures in connection with this initiative and, to date, has incurred $6,553$7,941 and $11,937$17,728 in restructuring costs and capital expenditures, respectively.


During 2013, BPCCBP completed the consolidation of its Auburn, Washington facility into its Russia, Ohio facility.

HBP 2012 restructuring costs related primarily to an ATTAMES facility closure and related termination benefits for administrative and production staff. HBP 2011


31


Telephonics
 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Revenue$419,005
   $453,351
   $441,503
  
Segment operating profit$45,293
 10.8% $55,076
 12.1% $49,232
 11.2%
Depreciation and amortization7,988
   7,373
   7,518
  
Restructuring charges4,244
   750
   3,815
  
Segment adjusted EBITDA$57,525
 13.7% $63,199
 13.9% $60,565
 13.7%

2014 Compared to 2013

Segment revenue decreased $34,346, or 8%, compared to 2013. The prior year period included $33,257 of electronic warfare program ("ICREW") revenue in which Telephonics served as a contract manufacturer; there was no such revenue in the current year. Excluding the ICREW program, revenue was in line with prior year.

Segment operating profit decreased $9,783 or 18%, compared to the prior year. Excluding restructuring costs relatedcharges, Segment operating profit decreased $6,289 or 11%, compared to the prior year. Segment operating profit decreased primarily due to one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, excess facilities and relatedreduced gross profit driven by the absence of ICREW revenue, increased operating costs and other exit coststhe effects of product mix.

During 2014, Telephonics was awarded several new contracts and incremental funding on existing contracts approximating $468,800. Contract backlog was $494,000 at September 30, 2014 with 65% expected to be fulfilled in the next 12 months; backlog was $444,000 at September 30, 2013. Backlog is defined as unfilled firm orders for products and services for which funding has been both authorized and appropriated by the completioncustomer or Congress, in the case of the CBP manufacturing facilities consolidation, started in 2009, and administrative related headcount reductions at ATT.

In June 2009, CBP undertook to consolidate its manufacturing facilities. These actions were completed in 2011. CBP incurred total pre-tax exit and restructuring costs approximating $9,031, substantially all of which were cash charges; charges include $1,160 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, $210 for excess facilities and related costs, and $7,661 for other exit costs, primarily in connection with production realignment, and had $10,365 of capital expenditures.

Telephonics

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Revenue $453,351   $441,503   $455,353  
                
Segment operating profit $55,07612.1% $49,23211.2% $40,5958.9%
Depreciation and amortization  7,373    7,518    7,234  
Restructuring charges  750    3,815    3,046  
Segment adjusted EBITDA $63,19913.9% $60,56513.7% $50,87511.2%

U.S. government agencies.


2013 Compared to 2012


Segment revenue increased $11,848, or 3%, compared to 2012. The current and prior year included $33,257 and $24,101, respectively, of revenue related to electronic warfare programs where Telephonics serves as a contract manufacturer;ICREW revenue; excluding the ICREW program revenue from these programs,both years, current year revenue increased 1% from the prior year, primarily due to the timing of work performed on Multi Mode Surveillance Radars for international pursuits as well as the Firescout contract.

37

Segment operating profit increased $5,844, or 12%. Excluding the current and prior year restructuring charges, segment operating profit increased 5% and operating margin increased 30 basis points compared to the prior year. The increase was primarily due to increased revenue and lower than anticipatedreduced expenditures associated with the timing of R&D initiatives and proposal efforts. The prior year benefitted from higher gross profit from favorable manufacturing efficiencies, which were primarily due to the Light Airborne Multi-purposeMulti-Purpose Systems Multi Mode Radar (“LAMPS MMR”).


Restructuring

During 2013, Telephonics was awarded several new contracts and incremental funding on existing contracts approximating $446,500. Contract backlog was $444,000 at September 30, 2013 with 72% expected to be realized in the next 12 months; backlog was $451,000 at September 30, 2012. Backlog is defined as unfilled firm orders for products and services for which funding has been both authorized and appropriated by the customer or Congress, in the case of the U.S. government agencies.

2012 Compared to 2011

Segment revenue decreased $13,850, or 3%, compared to 2011. Revenue in 2012 and 2011 included $24,101 and $44,305, respectively, related to electronic warfare programs where Telephonics serves as a contract manufacturer; excluding revenue from these programs from both years, revenue increased 2% over the prior year due to radar growth driven by LAMPS MMR, partially offset by the impact from the timing of awards on Ground Surveillance Radars (“GSR”) related to the Cerberus program.

Segment operating profit increased $8,637, or 21%, mainly driven by higher gross profit from a combination of favorable program mix, and manufacturing efficiencies, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses primarily due to the timing of proposal activities. Operating results also benefited from cost reductions resulting from the voluntary early retirement plan undertaken in the prior year and other restructuring activities implemented in early 2012.

Restructuring

During 2013,2014, Telephonics recognized $750$4,244 in restructuring costs in connection with the terminationclosure of its Swedish facility and restructuring of operations, a facility lease. The facility was vacated asvoluntary early retirement plan and a result of the headcount reductionsreduction in force aimed at improving efficiency by combining functions and changes in organizational structure Telephonics undertookresponsibilities, resulting in the past two years.elimination of 80 positions. In 20122013 and 2011,2012, Telephonics recognized $750 and $3,815, and $3,046respectively, of restructuring charges in connection with two discrete voluntary early retirement plansplan offerings and other costs related to changes in organizational structure and facilities; such charges were primarily personnel-related, reducing headcount by 185 employees overemployees.


Plastics
 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Revenue$593,363
   $563,011
   $563,102
  
Segment operating profit$28,881
 4.9% $16,589
 2.9% $13,688
 2.4%
Depreciation and amortization27,410
   26,738
   26,312
  
Restructuring charges
   4,773
   
  
Segment adjusted EBITDA$56,291
 9.5% $48,100
 8.5% $40,000
 7.1%

32



2014 Compared to 2013

Revenue in 2014 increased $30,352, or 5%, in comparison to 2013. The increase reflected favorable mix (2%), the two-year period.

benefit of increased volume (1%) and the pass through of increased resin costs in customer selling prices (2%). The impact of foreign exchange translation was not significant to the year. Plastics

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Revenue $563,011   $563,102   $535,713  
                
Segment operating profit $16,5892.9% $13,6882.4% $13,3082.5%
Depreciation and amortization  26,738    26,312    24,331  
Restructuring charges  4,773          
Segment adjusted EBITDA $48,1008.5% $40,0007.1% $37,6397.0%

adjusts selling prices based on underlying resin costs on a delayed basis.


Segment operating profit increased $12,292 compared to the prior year; the prior year included restructuring charges of $4,773. Excluding such charges, Segment operating profit increased $7,519 or 35% primarily due to continued efficiency improvements, increased volume, favorable product mix and a $1,100 change in the impact of resin pricing pass through.

2013 Compared to 2012


Revenue in 2013 was essentially flat in comparison to 2012.Excluding a 1% unfavorable impact of foreign exchange translation, revenue increased 1% mainly due to favorable mix (1%) and the pass through of higher resin costs in customer selling prices (1%), partially offset by lowerdecreased volume (1%), a portion of which was attributable to Plastics exiting certain low margin products.

38

Segment operating profit increased $2,901 compared to the prior year. Excluding the restructuring charges, current year Segment operating profit increased $7,674 due to product mix, continued efficiency improvements and the positive impact of restructuring initiatives undertaken during the year, partially offset by approximatelya $7,000 unfavorable impact of higher resin costs, which had not yet been reflected in increased selling prices.Plastics adjusts customer selling prices based on underlying resin costs, on a delayed basis.

2012 Compared to 2011

Revenue in 2012 increased $27,389, or 5%, compared to 2011, driven by a 10% increase in volume. The benefit of the volume growth was partially offset by the unfavorable impact of translation of European and Brazilian revenue into a stronger U.S. dollar (5%). Resin did not significantly impact reported revenue for the full year 2012.

Segment operating profit increased $380 compared to the prior year primarily driven by the higher volume, a $3,700 favorable resin benefit and efficiency improvement on past capital initiatives, partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange (2%) and a shift in product mix, as well as somewhat higher Selling, general and administrative expenses.


Restructuring


In February 2013, Plastics announcedundertook a restructuring project, primarily in Europe, to exit low margin productsbusiness and to eliminate approximately 80 positions, resulting in restructuring charges of $4,773, primarily related to one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs. This project is substantially complete.

was completed in 2013.


Unallocated Amounts


For 2013,2014, unallocated amounts, which consist primarily of corporate overhead costs, totaled $33,394 compared to $29,153 in 2013, with the increase primarily due to compensation and incentive costs.

For 2013, unallocated amounts totaled $29,153 compared to $26,346 in 2012, with the increase primarily due to stock and incentive compensation.

For 2012, unallocated amounts totaled $26,346 compared to $22,868 in 2011, with the increase primarily due to stock and incentive compensation.


Loss on Pension Settlement


In 2013, SG&A includes a $2,142, non-cash, pension settlement loss resulting from the lump-sum buyout of certain participant’s balances in the Company’s defined benefit plan. The buyout, funded by the pension plan, reduced the Company’s net pension liability by $3,472.


Segment Depreciation and Amortization


Segment depreciation and amortization of $66,978 decreased $3,328 in 2014 compared to 2013, primarily due to assets fully amortizing, partially offset by the onset of depreciation for new assets placed in service.

In 2013, segment depreciation and amortization of $70,306 increased $4,442 in 2013 compared to 2012, primarily due to capital spending.

Segment depreciation and amortization


Comprehensive Income (Loss)

During 2014, total other comprehensive loss, net of $65,864 increased $5,503 in 2012 compared to 2011,taxes, of $27,918, consisted of a $23,933 loss on Foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the increased depreciationweakening of the Euro, Canadian and amortization relatedAustralian currencies, all in comparison to the Southern Patio acquisitionU.S. Dollar, a $5,107 loss from Pension and capital expansion at Plasticsother post retirement benefits, primarily due to lower assumed discount rates compared to the prior year, a $252 gain on cash flow hedges and CBP.

$870 gain on available-for-sale securities.



33


During 2013, total other comprehensive income, net of taxes, of $16,220 consisted of a $3,090 loss on Foreign currency translation adjustments primarily due to the weakening of the Canadian, Brazilian and Australian currencies, partially offset by the strengthening Euro, all in comparison to the U.S. Dollar, and a $19,310 benefit from Pension and other post retirement benefits, primarily due to increased assumed discount rates consistent with increased market interest rates.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In 2008, as a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, Griffon exited substantially all operating activities of its Installation Services segment which sold, installed and serviced garage doors and openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry and a range of related building products, primarily for the new residential housing market. Griffon sold eleven units, closed one unit and merged two units into CBP. Operating results of substantially all of this entire segment have been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all periods presented; the Installation Services segment is excluded from segment reporting.

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Griffon substantially concluded remaining disposal activities in 2009. There was no reported revenue in 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.2012. Future net cash outflows to satisfy liabilities related to disposal activities accrued as of September 30, 20132014 are estimated to be $8,032

$7,114.


In 2013, the Company recorded a $4,651 charge to discontinued operations increasing environmental and casualty insurance reserves. A portion of this charge relates to ongoing and potential future homeowner association claims related to the former Installation Services business; claims experience has been greater than anticipated when reserves were initially established in 2008. The adjustment to environmental reserves relates to changes in status of and approach to cleanup requirements for businesses that were discontinued several years ago.


At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon’s assets and liabilities for discontinued operations primarily related to income taxes and product liability, warranty and environmental reserves.


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES


Management assesses Griffon’s liquidity in terms of its ability to generate cash to fund its operating, investing and financing activities. Significant factors affecting liquidity are: cash flows from operating activities, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dispositions, bank lines of credit and the ability to attract long-term capital under satisfactory terms. Griffon remains in a strong financial position with sufficient liquidity available for reinvestment in existing businesses and strategic acquisitions while managing its capital structure on both a short-term and long-term basis.


The following table is derived from the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:

Cash Flows from Continuing Operations Years Ended September 30, 
(in thousands) 2013  2012 
       
Net Cash Flows Provided By (Used In):        
Operating activities $85,683  $90,130 
Investing activities  (62,868)  (90,974)
Financing activities  (52,249)  (30,693)

Cash Flows from Continuing OperationsYears Ended September 30,
(in thousands)2014 2013
Net Cash Flows Provided By (Used In): 
  
Operating activities$93,301
 $85,683
Investing activities(147,250) (62,868)
Financing activities(27,930) (52,249)

Cash flows generated by operating activities for 2013 decreased $4,447,2014 increased $7,618, to $93,301 compared to $85,683 compared to $90,130 in 2012.2013, with the increase driven by operating results, partially offset by increased working capital. Current assets net of current liabilities, excluding short-term debt and cash, increased $11,758$34,678 to $372,639$399,417 at September 30, 20132014 compared to $360,881$364,739 at the prior year end, primarily due to increases in accounts receivableacquired working capital related to the Northcote and contract costsCyclone acquisitions and recognized income not yet billed, and a decrease in accrued liabilities,increased inventory, partially offset by a decreasedecreased receivables and increased accounts payable and accrued liabilities, all excluding increases from acquired assets and liabilities. In connection with the refinancing of the Company’s Senior Notes, current year operating cash flows reflect $54,154 of interest paid, compared to $39,188 in inventory.

2013, reducing cash flow from operations.


During 2013,2014, Griffon used cash in investing activities of $62,868$147,250 compared to $90,974$62,868 in 2012;2013; the 20122014 uses reflected the acquisition on Southern Patioacquisitions of Northcote ($22,432)22,000) and Cyclone ($40,000). In 2013,2014, capital expenditures, net, totaled $62,868$76,542 compared to $68,542$62,868 in 2012,2013, with the decreaseincrease being driven primarily by decreasedincreased capital expenditures at Plastics.

AMES, Plastics and Telephonics.


Cash used by financing activities in 20132014 totaled $52,249$27,930 compared to usage of $30,693$52,249 in the prior year. The current year included repurchase of common stock ($79,614), purchase of ESOP shares ($20,000), financing costs ($11,298) and payment of dividends

34


($6,273), partially offset by net proceeds from debt of $88,110. In 2013, financing activity usage primarily consisted of scheduled repayment of long-term borrowings ($16,867), repurchase of common stock ($32,521) and payment of dividends ($5,825). In 2012, financing activity usage primarily consisted

During 2014, the Board of scheduled repaymentDirectors approved four quarterly cash dividends each for $0.03 per share.

On May 1, 2014, Griffon’s Board of long-term borrowings ($18,456),Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of Griffon’s outstanding common stock. Under this repurchase program, the Company may purchase shares, depending upon market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, including pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan. During 2014, Griffon purchased an aggregate of 1,906,631 shares of common stock ($10,382)under the May 2014 Board authorized program and paymentunder its former August 2011 Board authorized program, for a total of dividends ($4,743).$23,167 or $12.15 per share. In addition, on December 10, 2013, Griffon repurchased 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct, L.L.C. (“GS Direct”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., in a private transaction. At September 30, 2013, $12,0272014, $38,860 remains under Griffon’sthe May 2014 Board authorized repurchase program.

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In addition to the repurchases under Board authorized programs, during 2014, 466,131 shares, with a market value of $5,887, or $12.63 per share, were withheld to settle employee taxes due upon the vesting of restricted stock.

Payments related to Telephonics revenue are received in accordance with the terms of development and production subcontracts; certain of such receipts are progress or performance based payments. Plastics customers are generally substantial industrial companies whose payments have been steady, reliable and made in accordance with the terms governing such sales. Plastics sales satisfy orders that are received in advance of production, and where payment terms are established in advance. With respect to HBP, there have been no material adverse impacts on payment for sales.


A small number of customers account for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of Griffon’s consolidated revenue. In 2013:

2014:

a.The U.S. Government and its agencies, through prime and subcontractor relationships, represented 19%15% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 77%72% of TelephonicsTelephonics' revenue.
b.P&G represented 14% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 47%46% of PlasticsPlastics' revenue.
c.The Home Depot represented 11%12% of Griffon’s consolidated revenue and 25%23% of HBPHBP's revenue.


No other customer exceeded 9%8% of consolidated revenue. Future operating results will continue to substantially depend on the success of Griffon’s largest customers and our relationships with them. Orders from these customers are subject to change and may fluctuate materially. The loss of all or a portion of volume from any one of these customers could have a material adverse impact on Griffon’s liquidity and operations.

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At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon had debt, net of cash and equivalents, as follows:

Cash and Equivalents and Debt At September 30,  At September 30, 
(in thousands) 2013  2012 
Cash and equivalents $178,130  $209,654 
         
Notes payables and current portion of long-term debt  10,768   17,703 
Long-term debt, net of current maturities  678,487   681,907 
Debt discount  13,246   16,607 
Total debt  702,501   716,217 
Debt, net of cash and equivalents $524,371  $506,563 

Cash and Equivalents and DebtAt September 30, At September 30,
(in thousands)2014 2013
Cash and equivalents$92,405
 $178,130
Notes payables and current portion of long-term debt7,886
 10,768
Long-term debt, net of current maturities805,101
 678,487
Debt discount9,584
 13,246
Total debt822,571
 702,501
Debt, net of cash and equivalents$730,166
 $524,371
On February 27, 2014, in an unregistered offering through a private placement under Rule 144A, Griffon issued, at par, $600,000 of 5.25% Senior Notes due 2022 (“Senior Notes”); interest is payable semi-annually on March 28, 2013,1 and September 1, starting September 1, 2014. Proceeds from the Senior Notes were used to redeem $550,000 of 7.125% senior notes due 2018, to pay a call and tender offer premium of $31,530 and to make interest payments of $16,716, with the balance used to pay a portion of the related transaction fees and expenses. In connection with the issuance of the Senior Notes, all obligations under the $550,000 of 7.125% senior notes due in 2018 were discharged.

The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Griffon guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries, and subject to certain covenants, limitations and restrictions. On June 18, 2014, Griffon exchanged all of the Senior Notes for substantially identical

35


Senior Notes registered under the Securities Act of 1933 via an exchange offer. The fair value of the Senior Notes approximated $570,000 on September 30, 2014 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).

In connection with these transactions, Griffon capitalized $10,313 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred related to the issuance and exchange of the Senior Notes, which will amortize over the term of such notes. Griffon recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt on the 7.125% senior notes aggregating $38,890, comprised of the $31,530 tender offer premium, the write-off of $6,574 of remaining deferred financing fees and $786 of prepaid interest on defeased notes.

On February 14, 2014, Griffon amended and increased the amount available under its $225,000 Revolving Credit Facility (“Credit Agreement”) from $200,000 to $225,000 and extendedextend its maturity from March 18, 201628, 2018 to March 28, 2018 (except that if the Company’s 7-1/8 Senior Notes due 2018 are still outstanding on October 1, 2017, the Facility will mature on October 1, 2017).2019, and to amend certain financial maintenance and negative covenants to improve Griffon's financial and operating flexibility. The facility includes a letter of credit sub-facility with a limit of $60,000, a multi-currency sub-facility of $50,000 and a swinglineswing line sub-facility with a limit of $30,000. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be repaid and re-borrowed at any time, subject to final maturity of the facility or the occurrence of a default or an event of default under the Credit Agreement. Interest is payable on borrowings at either a LIBOR or base rate benchmark rate, in each case without a floor, plus an applicable margin, which adjusts based on financial performance. The currentCurrent margins are 1.00%1.25% for base rate loans and 2.00%2.25% for LIBOR loans. The Credit Agreement has certain financial maintenance tests including a maximum total leverage ratio, a maximum senior secured leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio, as well as customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. The Credit Agreement also includes certain restrictions, such as limitationsnegative covenants place limits on the incurrence ofGriffon's ability to, among other things, incur indebtedness, andincur liens and the making ofmake restricted payments and investments. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Griffon’s material domestic subsidiaries and are secured, on a first priority basis, by substantially all domestic assets of the Company and the guarantors and a pledge of not greater than two-thirds65% of the equity interest in each of Griffon’s material, first-tier foreign subsidiaries.subsidiaries (except that a lien on the assets of Griffon and its material domestic subsidiaries securing a limited amount of the debt under the credit agreement relating to Griffon's Employee Stock Ownership Plan ranks pari passu with the lien granted on such assets under the Credit Agreement. At September 30, 2013, there were $25,457 of2014, outstanding borrowings and standby letters of credit outstandingwere $25,000 and $18,929, respectively, under the Credit Agreement; $199,543$181,071 was available subject to certain covenants, for borrowing at that date.

On March 17, 2011, in an unregistered offering through a private placement under Rule 144A, Griffon issued, at par, $550,000 of 7.125% Senior Notes due in 2018 (“Senior Notes”); interest is payable semi-annually.  On August 9, 2011, Griffon exchanged all of the Senior Notes for substantially identical Senior Notes registered under the Securities Act of 1933 via an exchange offer.

Proceeds from the Senior Notes were used to pay down outstanding borrowings under a senior secured term loan facility and two senior secured revolving credit facilities of certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.  The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Griffon guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries, and are subject to certain covenants, limitations and restrictions.  The fair value of the Senior Notes approximated $583,000 on September 30, 2013 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).


On December 21, 2009, Griffon issued $100,000 principal of 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2017 (the “2017 Notes”).  The current conversion rate of the 2017 Notes is 67.849568.4571 shares of Griffon’s common stock per $1,000$1 principal amount of notes, corresponding to a conversion price of $14.74$14.61 per share. When a cash dividend is declared that would result in an adjustment to the conversion ratio of less than 1%, any adjustment to the conversion ratio is deferred until the first to occur of (i) actual conversion; (ii) the 42nd trading day prior to maturity of the notes; and (iii) such time as the cumulative adjustment equals or exceeds 1%. As of September 30, 2013,2014, aggregate dividends since the last conversion price adjustment of $0.075$0.06 per share would have resulted in an adjustment to the conversion ratio of approximately 0.66%0.52%. At both September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, the 2017 Notes had a capital in excess of par component, net of tax, of $15,720. The fair value of the 2017 Notes approximated $112,600$110,188 on September 30, 2013,2014, based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).

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On December 20, 2010,October 21, 2013, Griffon entered intorefinanced two second lien real estate mortgages to secure new loans totaling $11,834.$17,175. The loans mature in February 2016,October 2018, are collateralized by the related properties and are guaranteed by Griffon. The loans bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 3% with the option to swap to a fixed rate. On October 21,2.75%. At September 30, 2014, $16,388 was outstanding.

In December 2013, Griffon refinanced these real estate mortgages with total principal of $17,175, maturing in October 2018 and bearing interest at LIBOR plus 2.75%.

Griffon has other real estate mortgages, collateralized by real property, which bear interest at 6.3% and mature in 2016.

Griffon’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) entered into an agreement that refinanced the two existing ESOP loans into one new Term Loan in the amount of $21,098 (the "Agreement"). The Agreement also provided for a loan agreement in August 2010 to borrow $20,000 over a one-year period. The proceeds were usedLine Note with $10,000 available to purchase 1,874,737 shares of Griffon common stock in the open market for $19,973.market. In July 2014, Griffon's ESOP entered into an amendment of the existing Agreement which provided an additional $10,000 Line Note available to purchase shares in the open market. During 2014, the Line Notes were combined with the Term Loan to form one new Term Loan. The loan bears interest at a) LIBOR plus 2.5%2.38% or b) the lender’s prime rate, at Griffon’s option.  In November 2011, Griffon exercised an option to convert the outstanding loan to a five-year term loan;The Term Loan requires quarterly principal is payable in quarterly installmentspayments of $250, beginning December 2011,$506, with a balloon payment of $15,223approximately $30,137 due at maturity (November 2016).on December 31, 2018. During 2014, 1,591,117 shares of Griffon common stock, for a total of $20,000 or $12.57 per share, were purchased with proceeds from the Line Notes. At September 30, 2014, $38,946 was outstanding under the Term Loan. The loanTerm Loan is secured by shares purchased with the proceeds of the loan and repaymentwith a lien on a specific amount of Griffon assets (which lien ranks pari passu with the lien granted on such assets under the Credit Agreement), and is guaranteed by Griffon. At September 30, 2013, $17,973 was outstanding.

In addition, the ESOP is party to a loan agreement which requires quarterly principal payments of $156 and interest through the extended expiration date of December 2013, at which time the $3,125 balance of the loan, and any outstanding interest, will be payable. Griffon has the intent and ability to refinance the December 2013 balance and has classified the balance in Long-Term Debt. The primary purpose of this loan was to purchase 547,605 shares of Griffon’s common stock in October 2008. The loan is secured by shares purchased with the proceeds of the loan and repayment is guaranteed by Griffon. The loan bears interest at rates based upon the prime rate or LIBOR. At September 30, 2013, $3,125 was outstanding and classified as long-term debt as the Company has the intent and ability to refinance in 2014.


In October 2006, CBP entered into a capital lease totaling $14,290 for real estate in Troy, Ohio. The lease matures in 2022, bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.0%, is secured by a mortgage on the real estate and is guaranteed by Griffon.

At September 30, 2014, $8,551 was outstanding.

In November 2010, Clopay Europe GMBHGmbH (“Clopay Europe”) entered into a €10,000 revolving credit facility and a €20,000 term loan. The facility accrues interest at EURIBOR plus 2.45% per annumterm loan was paid off in December 2013 and the term loan accrues interestrevolver had no borrowings outstanding at EURIBOR plus 2.20% per annum.September 30, 2014. The revolving facility matures in November 2013,2014, but is renewable upon mutual agreement with the bank. In July 2011, the full €20,000 was drawn on the Term Loan, with a portion of the proceeds used to repay borrowings under theThe revolving credit facility. The term loan is payable in ten equal quarterly installments which began in September 2011, with maturity in December 2013. Under the term loan,facility

36


accrues interest at EURIBOR plus 2.20% per annum. Clopay Europe is required to maintain a certain minimum equity to assets ratio and keep leverage below a certain level, defined as the ratio of total debt to EBITDA.

In February 2012,

Clopay do Brazil, a subsidiary of Plastics, borrowed $4,000 at a rate of 104.5% of Brazilian CDI (9.10% at September 30, 2013). The loan was used to refinance existing loans, is collateralized by accounts receivable and a 50% guaranty by Plastics and is to be repaid in four equal, semi-annual installments of principal plus accrued interest beginning in August 2012. Clopay do Brazil alsoBrasil maintains lines of credit of approximately $4,950.$5,200. Interest on borrowings accrueaccrues at a rate of Brazilian CDI plus 6.0% (15.23%(17.0% at September 30, 2013)2014). At September 30, 20132014 there was approximately $4,600$3,306 borrowed under the lines.

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Clopay Plastic Products Company, Inc. guarantees the loan and lines.

In November 2012, Garant G.P. (“Garant”) entered into a CAD $15,000 revolving credit facility.  The facility accrues interest at LIBOR (USD) or the Bankers Acceptance Rate (CDN) plus 1.3% per annum (1.48%(1.53% LIBOR USD and 2.46%2.52% Bankers Acceptance Rate CDN as of September 30, 2013)2014). The revolving facility matures in November 2015. Garant is required to maintain a certain minimum equity.  At September 30, 2013,2014, there were no borrowings under the revolving credit facility with CAD $15,000 availableavailable.
In December 2013 and May 2014, Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd entered into two unsecured term loans in the outstanding amounts of AUD $12,500 and AUD $20,000, respectively. The AUD $12,500 term loan requires quarterly interest payments with principal due upon maturity in December 2016. The AUD 20,000 term loan requires quarterly principal payments of $625 beginning in August 2015, with a balloon payment due upon maturity in May 2017. The loans accrue interest at Bank Bill Swap Bid Rate “BBSY” plus 2.8% per annum (5.5% at September 30, 2014 for borrowing

each loan). As of September 30, 2014, Griffon had an outstanding combined balance of $28,470 on the term loans. Subsidiaries of Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd also maintain two lines of credit of AUD $3,000 and AUD $5,000 which accrue interest at BBSY plus 2.25% per annum (4.95% at September 30, 2014) and 2.50% per annum (5.20% at September 30, 2014), respectively. At September 30, 2014, there were no outstanding borrowings under the lines. Griffon guarantees the term loans and the AUD $3,000 line of credit; the assets of a subsidiary of Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd secures the AUD $5,000 line of credit.


At September 30, 2012, Griffon had $532 of 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2023 (“2023 Notes”) outstanding. On April 15, 2013, the 2023 Notes were redeemed at par plus accrued interest.


At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon and its subsidiaries were in compliance with the terms and covenants of its credit and loan agreements.


In each of August 2011 and May 2014, Griffon’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of Griffon’s outstanding common stock; this was in addition to the 1,366,000 shares of common stock authorized for repurchase under an existing buyback program.stock. Under theboth repurchase programs, the Company may, from time to time, purchase shares of its common stock, depending upon market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, including pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan. During 2011, Griffon purchased 1,531,379 shares of common stock, for a total of $12,367, or $8.08 per share, exhausting the shares under the original program. During 2012, Griffon purchased 1,187,066 shares of common stock under the August 2011 program, for a total of $10,379, or $8.74 per share pursuant to the repurchase program.share. During 2013, Griffon purchased 2,369,786 shares of common stock under the planAugust 2011 program for a total of $26,285, or $11.09 per share. To date,During 2014, Griffon has purchased 3,722,2311,906,631 shares of common stock under the Board authorized $50,000both repurchase program,programs, for a total of $37,973,$23,167 or $10.20$12.15 per share; $12,027shares. Since August 2011, Griffon has repurchased 6,994,862 shares of common stock, for a total of $72,197 or $10.32 per share under Board authorized share repurchase programs (which repurchases included exhausting the remaining availability under a Board authorized repurchase program in existence prior to 2011). At September 30, 2014, the August 2011 Board authorized repurchase plan was completed and $38,860 remains under the $50,000 authorization.

Griffon’s May 2014 Board authorized repurchase program.


On November 13,December 10, 2013, Griffon announced that it will repurchaserepurchased 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct, L.L.C. (“GS Direct”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.Direct. The repurchase will bewas effected in a private transaction at a per share price of $11.25, an approximate 9.2% discount to the stock’s closing price on November 12, 2013.2013, the day before announcement of the transaction. The transaction iswas exclusive of the Company’s currentAugust 2011 $50,000 authorized share repurchase program, of which $12,027 remained as of September 30, 2013.program. After closing of the transaction, GS Direct will continuecontinued to hold approximately 5.56 million shares (approximately 10%) of the shares outstanding at such time) of Griffon’s common stock. GS Direct has also agreed that, subjectSubject to certain exceptions, if itGS Direct intends to sell its remaining shares of Griffon common stock at any time prior to December 31, 2014,2015, it will first negotiate with the Company in good faith to sell thesuch shares to the Company. Griffon will fund the purchase with cash on hand and the transaction will be completed in December.

No cash dividends on Common Stock were declared or paid during the three years ended September 30, 2011.


On November 17, 2011, the Company began declaring quarterly cash dividends. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company declared and paid quarterly dividends of $0.02totaling $0.12 per share, totaling$0.10 per share and $0.08 per share, for the year. During 2013, the Company declared and paid quarterly dividends of $0.025 per share, totaling $0.10 per share for the year.respectively. The Company currently intends to pay dividends each quarter; however, the payment of dividends is determined by the Board of Directors at its discretion based on various factors, and no assurance can be provided as to the payment of future dividends.


On November 13, 2013,12, 2014, the Company declared a $0.03$0.04 per share dividend payable on December 24, 201323, 2014 to shareholders of record as of December 5, 2013.

3, 2014.


During the year ended September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon used cash for discontinued operations of $2,090,$1,528, primarily related to settling certain Installation Services liabilities.


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37



Contractual Obligations


At September 30, 2013,2014, payments to be made pursuant to significant contractual obligations are as follows:

   Payments Due by Period 
(in thousands)  Total  Less Than 1 Year  1-3 Years  3-5 Years  More than 5
Years
   Other 
Long-term debt (a) $702,501  $10,768  $24,351  $663,255  $4,127  $ 
Interest expense  195,463   44,748   88,718   61,654   343    
Rental commitments  89,320   21,762   32,634   19,918   15,006    
Purchase obligations (b)  179,757   171,919   7,762   76       
Capital expenditures  9,389   9,389             
Supplemental & post-retirement benefits (c)  40,971   11,027   7,964   7,348   14,632    
Uncertain tax positions (d)  7,558               7,558 
Total obligations $1,224,959  $269,613  $161,429  $752,251  $34,108  $7,558 

 
 Payments Due by Period
(in thousands)
 Total
 Less Than 1 Year 1-3 Years 3-5 Years 
More than 5
Years
  Other
Long-term debt (a)$822,571
 $7,886
 $37,863
 $161,844
 $614,978
 $
Interest expense256,327
 38,629
 74,015
 67,394
 76,289
 
Rental commitments97,396
 25,609
 37,019
 24,333
 10,435
 
Purchase obligations (b)190,747
 184,242
 6,383
 122
 
 
Capital expenditures16,025
 16,025
 
 
 
 
Supplemental & post-retirement benefits (c)32,089
 4,058
 7,939
 6,955
 13,137
 
Uncertain tax positions (d)4,787
 
 
 
 
 4,787
Total obligations$1,419,942
 $276,449
 $163,219
 $260,648
 $714,839
 $4,787
______________

(a)Included in long-term debt isare capital leases of: $1,106$1,446 (less than 1 year), $2,289$2,832 (1-3 years), $2,322$2,515 (3-5 years) and $4,127$2,898 (more than 5 years).

(b)Purchase obligations are generally for the purchase of goods and services in the ordinary course of business. Griffon uses blanket purchase orders to communicate expected requirements to certain vendors. Purchase obligations reflect those purchase orders where the commitment is considered to be firm. Purchase obligations that extend beyond 20132014 are principally related to long-term contracts received from customers of Telephonics.

(c)Griffon funds required payouts under its non-qualified supplemental defined benefit plan from its general assets and the expected payments are included in each period, as applicable.

(d)Due to the uncertainty of the potential settlement of future uncertain tax positions, management is unable to estimate the timing of related payments, if any, that will be made subsequent to 2013.2014. These amounts do not include any potential indirect benefits resulting from deductions or credits for payments made to other jurisdictions.


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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements


Except for operating leases and purchase obligations as disclosed herein, Griffon is not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements.


Off-Set Agreements


Telephonics may enter into industrial cooperation agreements, sometimes referred to as offset agreements, as a condition to obtaining orders for its products and services from customers in foreign countries. These agreements promote investment in the country, and may be satisfied through activities that do not require Griffon to use its cash, including transferring technology, providing manufacturing and other consulting support. These agreements may also be satisfied through the use of cash for such activities as purchasing supplies from in-country vendors, setting up support centers, research and development investments, acquisitions, and building or leasing facilities for in-country operations, if applicable. The amount of the offset requirement is determined by contract value awarded and negotiated percentages with customers. At September 30, 2013,2014, Telephonics had outstanding offset agreements totaling approximately $65,000,approximating $89,000, primarily related to its Radar Systems division, some of which extend through 2024. Offset programs usually extend over several years and in some cases provide for penalties in the event GriffonTelephonics fails to perform in accordance with contract requirements. Historically, Telephonics has not been required to pay any such penalties and as of September 30, 2013,2014, no such penalties are estimable or probable.

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ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRONOUNCEMENTS


Critical Accounting Policies


The preparation of Griffon’s consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United StatesU.S. of America (“GAAP”) requires the use of estimates, assumptions, judgments and subjective interpretations of accounting principles that have an impact on assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. These estimates can also affect supplemental information contained in public disclosures of Griffon, including information regarding contingencies, risk and its financial condition. These estimates, assumptions and judgments are evaluated on an ongoing basis and based on historical experience, current conditions and various other assumptions, and form the basis for estimating the carrying values of assets and liabilities, as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment for commitments and contingencies. Actual results may materially differ from these estimates.


An estimate is considered to be critical if it is subjective and if changes in the estimate using different assumptions would result in a material impact on Griffon’s financial position or results of operations. The following have been identified as the most critical accounting policies and estimates:


Revenue Recognition


Revenue is recognized when the following circumstances are satisfied: a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, b) delivery has occurred, title has transferred or services are rendered, c) price is fixed and determinable and d) collectability is reasonably assured. Goods are sold on terms whichthat transfer title and risk of loss at a specified location. Revenue recognition from product sales occurs when all factors are met, including transfer of title and risk of loss, which occurs either upon shipment or upon receipt by customers at the location specified in the terms of sale. Other than standard product warranty provisions, sales arrangements provide for no other significant post-shipment obligations. From time to time and for certain customers, rebates and other sales incentives, promotional allowances or discounts are offered, typically related to customer purchase volumes, all of which are fixed or determinable and are classified as a reduction of revenue and recorded at the time of sale. Griffon provides for sales returns allowances based upon historical returns experience.


Telephonics earns a substantial portion of its revenue as either a prime or subcontractor from contract awards with the U.S. Government, as well as non-U.S. governments and other commercial customers. These formal contracts are typically long-term in nature, usually greater than one year. Revenue and profits from these long-term fixed price contracts are recognized under the percentage-of-completion method of accounting. Revenue and profits on fixed-price contracts that contain engineering as well as production requirements are recorded based on the ratio of total actual incurred costs to date to the total estimated costs for each contract (cost-to-cost method). Using the cost-to-cost method, revenue is recorded at amounts equal to the ratio of actual cumulative costs incurred divided by total estimated costs at completion, multiplied by the total estimated contract revenue, less the cumulative revenue recognized in prior periods. The profit recorded on a contract using this method is equal to the current estimated total profit margin multiplied by the cumulative revenue recognized, less the amount of cumulative profit previously recorded for the contract in prior periods. As this method relies on the substantial use of estimates, these projections may be revised throughout the life of a contract. Components of this formula and ratio that may be estimated include gross profit margin and total costs at

39


completion. The cost performance and estimates to complete on long-term contracts are reviewed, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis, as well as when information becomes available that would necessitate a review of the current estimate. Adjustments to estimates for a contract’s estimated costs at completion and estimated profit or loss often are required as experience is gained, and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may or may not change, or if contract modifications occur. The impact of such adjustments or changes to estimates is made on a cumulative basis in the period when such information has become known. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, income from operations included net favorable/(unfavorable) catch-up adjustments approximating $(400), $3,400 and $9,200, respectively. Gross profit is affected by a variety of factors, including the mix of products, systems and services, production efficiencies, price competition and general economic conditions.

46

Revenue and profits on cost-reimbursable type contracts are recognized as allowable costs and are incurred on the contract at an amount equal to the allowable costs plus the estimated profit on those costs. The estimated profit on a cost-reimbursable contract may be fixed or variable based on the contractual fee arrangement. Incentive and award fees on these contracts are recorded as revenue when the criteria under which they are earned are reasonably assured of being met and can be estimated.


For contracts whose anticipated total costs exceed total expected revenue, an estimated loss is recognized in the period when identifiable. A provision for the entire amount of the estimated loss is recorded on a cumulative basis.

The estimated remaining costs to complete loss contracts, as of September 30, 2014 was $3,100 and is recorded as a reduction to gross margin on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). This loss had an immaterial impact to Griffon's Consolidated Financial Statements.


Amounts representing contract change orders or claims are included in revenue only when they can be reliably estimated and their realization is probable, and are determined on a percentage-of-completion basis measured by the cost-to-cost method.


From time to time, Telephonics may combine contracts if they are negotiated together, have specific requirements to combine, or are otherwise closely related. Contracts are segmented based on customer requirements.


Inventories


Inventories, stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out or average) or market, include material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs.


Griffon’s businesses typically do not require inventory that is susceptible to becoming obsolete or dated. In general, Telephonics sells products in connection with programs authorized and approved under contracts awarded by the U.S. Government or agencies thereof, and in accordance with customer specifications. Plastics primarily produces fabricated materials used by customers in the production of their products and these materials are produced against orders from those customers. HBP produces doors and non-powered lawn and garden tools in response to orders from customers of retailers and dealers or based on expected orders, as applicable.


Warranty Accruals


Direct customer and end-user warranties are provided on certain products. These warranties cover manufacturing defects that would prevent the product from performing in line with its intended and marketed use. The terms of thesesuch warranties vary by product line and generally provide for the repair or replacement of the defective product. Warranty claims data is collected and analyzed with a focus on the historical amount of claims, the products involved, the amount of time between the warranty claims and the products’ respective sales and the amount of current sales. Based on thesesuch analyses, warranty accruals are recorded as an increase to cost of sales and regularly reviewed for adequacy.


Stock-based Compensation


Griffon has issued stock-based compensation to certain employees, officers and directors in the form of stock options and restricted stock. For stock option grants made on or after October 1, 2005, expense is recognized over the awards’ expected vesting period based on their fair value as calculated using the Black-Scholes pricing model. The Black-Scholes pricing model uses estimated assumptions for a forfeiture rate, the expected life of the options and a volatility rate using historical data.

47

Compensation expense for restricted stock is recognized ratably over the required service period based on the fair value of the grant, calculated as the number of shares granted multiplied by the stock price on the date of grant, and for performance shares, the likelihood of achieving the performance criteria.


Allowances for Discount, Doubtful Account and Returns


Trade receivables are recorded at their stated amount, less allowances for discounts, doubtful accounts and returns. The allowances represent estimated uncollectible receivables associated with potential customer defaults on contractual obligations (usually due

40


to customers’ potential insolvency), discounts related to early payment of accounts receivables by customers and estimates for returns. The allowance for doubtful accounts includes amounts for certain customers where a risk of default has been specifically identified, as well as an amount for customer defaults, based on a formula, when it is determined the risk of some default is probable and estimable, but cannot yet be associated with specific customers. Allowance for discounts and returns are recorded as a reduction of revenue and the provision related to the allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded in SG&A expenses.


Acquisitions


Acquired businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting which requires, among other things, that most assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recognized at their fair values as of the acquisition date and that the fair value of acquired in-process research and development be recorded on the balance sheet. Related transaction costs are expensed as incurred. Any excess of the purchase price over the assigned values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.


Goodwill, Long-Lived Intangible and Tangible Assets, and Impairment


Griffon has significant intangible and tangible long-lived assets on its balance sheet whichthat includes goodwill and other intangible assets related to acquisitions. Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of net assets acquired in business combinations over the fair value of the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. As required under GAAP, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are reviewed for impairment annually, for Griffon as of September 30, or more frequently whenever events or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, using discounted future cash flows for each reporting unit. The testing of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment involves significant use of judgment and assumptions in the determination of a reporting unit’s fair market value. Based upon the results of the annual impairment review, it was determined that the fair value of each reporting unit substantially exceeded the carrying value of the assets, and no impairment existed as of September 30, 2013.

2014.


Long-lived amortizable intangible assets, such as customer relationships and software, and tangible assets, primarily Property, plant and equipment, are amortized over their expected useful lives, which involvesinvolve significant assumptions and estimates. Long-lived intangible and tangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing estimated future undiscounted cash flows to the carrying value of the asset when an impairment indicator, such as change in business, customer loss or obsolete technology, exists.


Fair value estimates are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable at the time, but such assumptions are subject to inherent uncertainty. Actual results may differ materially from those estimates. Any changes in key assumptions or management judgment with respect to a reporting unit or its prospects, which may result from a decline in Griffon’s stock price, a change in market conditions, market trends, interest rates or other factors outside of Griffon’s control, or significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, could result in a significantly different estimate of the fair value of Griffon’s reporting units, which could result in an impairment charge in the future.

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Restructuring Reserves


From time to time, Griffon will establish restructuring reserves at an operation. These reserves, for both termination and other exit costs, require the use of estimates. Though Griffon believes the estimates made are reasonable, they could differ materially from the actual costs.


Income Taxes


Griffon’s effective tax rate is based on income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available in the various jurisdictions in which Griffon operates. For interim financial reporting, the annual tax rate is estimated based on projected taxable income for the full year, and a quarterly income tax provision is recorded in accordance with the anticipated annual rate. As the year progresses, the annual tax rate is refined as new information becomes available, including year-to-date financial results. This process often results in changes to the effective tax rate throughout the year. Significant judgment is required in determining the effective tax rate and in evaluating tax positions.


Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets represent items to be used as a tax deduction or credit in future tax returns for which a tax benefit has been recorded in the income statement. The likelihood that the deferred tax asset balance will be recovered from future taxable income is assessed at least quarterly, and the valuation allowance, if any, is adjusted accordingly.


Tax benefits are recognized for an uncertain tax position when, in management’s judgment, it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by a taxing authority. For a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition

41


threshold, the tax benefit is measured as the largest amount that is judged to have a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority. The liability associated with unrecognized tax benefits is adjusted periodically due to changing circumstances, such as the progress of tax audits, case law developments and new or emerging legislation. Such adjustments are recognized in the period in which they are identified. The effective tax rate includes the net impact of changes in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and subsequent adjustments as considered appropriate by management. A number of years may elapse before a particular matter for which Griffon has recorded a liability related to an unrecognized tax benefit is audited and finally resolved. The number of years with open tax audits varies by jurisdiction. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular tax matter, Griffon believes its liability for unrecognized tax benefits is adequate. Favorable resolution of an unrecognized tax benefit could be recognized as a reduction in Griffon’s tax provision and effective tax rate in the period of resolution. Unfavorable settlement of an unrecognized tax benefit could increase the tax provision and effective tax rate and may require the use of cash in the period of resolution. The liability for unrecognized tax benefits is generally presented as noncurrent. However, if it is anticipated that a cash settlement will occur within one year, that portion of the liability is presented as current. Interest and penalties recognized on the liability for unrecognized tax benefits is recorded as income tax expense.


Pension Benefits


Griffon sponsors defined and supplemental benefit pension plans for certain active and retired employees. Annual amounts relating to these plans are recorded based on actuarial projections, which include various actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, assumed rates of return, compensation increases and turnover rates. The actuarial assumptions used to determine pension liabilities, and assets as well as pensionand expense are reviewed on an annual basis when modifications to assumptions are madeannually and modified based on current economic conditions and trends. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the nature of the plans’ investments and expectations for long-term rates of return. The discount rate used to measure obligations is based on a corporate bond spot-rate yield curve that matches projected future benefit payments, with the appropriate spot rate applicable to the timing of the projected future benefit payments. The assumptions utilizedAssumptions used in recordingdetermining Griffon’s obligations under the defined benefit pension plans are believed to be reasonable, based on experience and advice from independent actuaries; however, differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions may materially affect Griffon’s financial position or results of operations.

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The U.S. components

All of the defined benefit plans, which excludes the supplemental and post retirement healthcare and insurance benefit plans are frozen and have ceased accruing benefits.

Effective January 1, 2012, the Clopay Pension Plan merged with the Ames True Temper Inc. Pension Plan. The merged qualified defined benefit plans was named the Clopay Ames True Temper Pension Plan (“CATT Plan”).

The ATT supplemental executive retirement plan was frozen to new entrants and participants in the plan ceased accruing benefits in 2008.


Newly issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements

In February 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiring enhanced disclosures for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The guidance does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in the financial statements. This guidance is effective prospectively for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. As this new guidance is related to presentation only, the implementation of this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014 will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.


In July 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiring an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss or tax credit carryforward, except for instances when the carryforward is not available to settle any additional income taxes and an entity does not intend to use the deferred tax benefit for these purposes. In these circumstances, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning in 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

Recently issued effective accounting pronouncements


In June 2011,April 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiringchanging the presentationrequirements for reporting discontinued operations where a disposal of comprehensive income, thea component of an entity or group of components of net income,an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results when either classified as held for sale, or disposed of by sale or otherwise disposed. The amendment also requires enhanced disclosures about the components ofdiscontinued operation and disclosure information for other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income, or in two separate but consecutive statements. The new accounting rules eliminate the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity. The new accounting rules weresignificant dispositions. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning in 20132015 and didis not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations; early adoption permitted for disposals that have not been previously reported.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance on revenue from contracts with customers. The underlying principle is that an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance provides a five-step analysis of transactions to determine when and how revenue is recognized. Other major provisions include capitalization of certain contract costs, consideration of time value of money in the transaction price, and allowing estimates of variable consideration to be recognized before contingencies are resolved, in certain circumstances. The guidance also requires enhanced disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity's contracts with customers. This guidance permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method and is effective for the Company beginning in 2017; early adoption is not permitted. We have not yet selected a transition method and are currently evaluating the impact of the guidance on the Company's financial condition, results of operations and related disclosures.


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In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance on management's responsibility in evaluating whether there is substantial doubt about a company's ability to continue as a going concern and related footnote disclosures. Management will be required to evaluate, at each reporting period, whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about a company's ability to continue as a going concern within one year from the date the financial statements are issued. This guidance is effective prospectively for annual and interim reporting period beginning in 2017; implementation of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations and the Company presented comparable financial results.

operations.


Recently issued effective accounting pronouncements

In September 2011,February 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to performrequiring enhanced disclosures for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. It does not amend existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in the two-step quantitative impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite life intangibles.financial statements. This guidance iswas effective, prospectively, for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. As this guidance relates to presentation only, implementation in the Company beginning in 2013 and did not have an impactfirst quarter of fiscal 2014 had no effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

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The Company has implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect and that may impact its financial statements and does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.


Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk


Interest Rates


Griffon’s exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to variable interest rate debt and investments in cash and equivalents.


The revolving credit facility and certain other of Griffon’s credit facilities have a LIBOR-based variable interest rate. Due to the current and expected level of borrowings under these facilities, a 100 basis point change in LIBOR would not have a material impact on Griffon’s results of operations or liquidity.


Foreign Exchange


Griffon conducts business in various non-U.S. countries, primarily in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Turkey, China, Sweden and the United Kingdom and Mexico;Kingdom; therefore, changes in the value of the currencies of these countries affect the financial position and cash flows when translated into U.S. Dollars. Griffon has generally accepted the exposure to exchange rate movements relative to its non-U.S. operations. Griffon may, from time to time, hedge its currency risk exposures. A change of 10% or less in the value of all applicable foreign currencies would not have a material effect on Griffon’s financial position and cash flows.


Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The financial statements of Griffon and its subsidiaries and the report thereon of Grant Thornton LLP are included herein:


£
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.  
£Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 20132014 and 2012.  2013.  
£Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.  2012.  
£Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.  2012.  
£Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.  2012.  
£Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  
£Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Account.  
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43


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Griffon Corporation


We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Griffon Corporation (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income(loss), shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2013.2014. We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2013,2014, based on criteria established in the 1992Internal Control - IntegratedControl-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”)(COSO). Our audits of the basic financial statements included the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2).The. The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements, financial statement schedule and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting 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 audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.


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


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


In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Griffon Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 20132014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. In addition, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2013,2014, based on criteria established in the 1992Internal Control – IntegratedControl-Integrated Framework issued by COSO.


/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP


New York, New York


November 15, 2013

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12, 2014


44


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except per share data)

  At September  At September 
  30, 2013  30, 2012 
       
CURRENT ASSETS        
Cash and equivalents $178,130  $209,654 
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $6,136 and $5,433  256,215   239,857 
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments of $6,941 and $3,748  109,828   70,777 
Inventories, net  230,120   257,868 
Prepaid and other current assets  48,903   47,472 
Assets of discontinued operations  1,214   587 
Total Current Assets  824,410   826,215 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net  353,593   356,879 
GOODWILL  357,730   358,372 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net  221,391   230,473 
OTHER ASSETS  28,580   31,317 
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS  3,075   2,936 
Total Assets $1,788,779  $1,806,192 
CURRENT LIABILITIES        
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt $10,768  $17,703 
Accounts payable  163,610   141,704 
Accrued liabilities  106,743   110,337 
Liabilities of discontinued operations  3,288   3,639 
Total Current Liabilities  284,409   273,383 
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discount of $13,246 and $16,607  678,487   681,907 
OTHER LIABILITIES  170,675   193,107 
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS  4,744   3,643 
Total Liabilities  1,138,315   1,152,040 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - See Note 14        
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
Preferred stock, par value $0.25 per share, authorized 3,000 shares, no shares issued      
Common stock, par value $0.25 per share, authorized 85,000 shares, issued 77,616 shares and 76,509 shares  19,404   19,127 
Capital in excess of par value  494,412   482,009 
Retained earnings  434,363   436,421 
Treasury shares, at cost, 18,527 common shares and 15,621 common shares  (274,602)  (242,081)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (3,339)  (19,559)
Deferred compensation  (19,774)  (21,765)
Total Shareholders’ Equity  650,464   654,152 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $1,788,779  $1,806,192 




 At September 30, 2014 At September 30, 2013
CURRENT ASSETS 
  
Cash and equivalents$92,405
 $178,130
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $7,336 and $6,136258,436
 256,215
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments of $16,985 and $6,941109,930
 109,828
Inventories, net290,135
 230,120
Prepaid and other current assets62,569
 41,003
Assets of discontinued operations1,624
 1,214
Total Current Assets815,099
 816,510
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net370,565
 353,593
GOODWILL371,846
 354,459
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net233,623
 221,391
OTHER ASSETS27,102
 28,580
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS2,126
 3,075
Total Assets$1,820,361
 $1,777,608
CURRENT LIABILITIES 
  
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt$7,886
 $10,768
Accounts payable218,703
 163,610
Accrued liabilities101,292
 106,743
Liabilities of discontinued operations3,282
 3,288
Total Current Liabilities331,163
 284,409
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discount of $9,584 and $13,246805,101
 678,487
OTHER LIABILITIES148,240
 159,504
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS3,830
 4,744
Total Liabilities1,288,334
 1,127,144
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - See Note 14

 

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 
  
Preferred stock, par value $0.25 per share, authorized 3,000 shares, no shares issued
 
Common stock, par value $0.25 per share, authorized 85,000 shares, issued 78,484 shares and 77,616 shares19,621
 19,404
Capital in excess of par value506,090
 494,412
Retained earnings427,913
 434,363
Treasury shares, at cost, 25,335 common shares and 18,527 common shares(354,216) (274,602)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(30,064) (3,339)
Deferred compensation(37,317) (19,774)
Total Shareholders’ Equity532,027
 650,464
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity$1,820,361
 $1,777,608
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

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45


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands, except per share data)

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Revenue $1,871,327  $1,861,145  $1,830,802 
Cost of goods and services  1,453,742   1,442,340   1,437,341 
Gross profit  417,585   418,805   393,461 
             
Selling, general and administrative expenses  340,469   341,696   330,369 
Restructuring and other related charges  13,262   4,689   7,543 
Total operating expenses  353,731   346,385   337,912 
             
Income from operations  63,854   72,420   55,549 
             
Other income (expense)            
Interest expense  (52,520)  (52,007)  (47,846)
Interest income  353   292   398 
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        (26,164)
Other, net  2,646   1,236   3,714 
Total other income (expense)  (49,521)  (50,479)  (69,898)
             
Income (loss) before taxes  14,333   21,941   (14,349)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  7,543   4,930   (6,918)
Income (loss) from continuing operations $6,790  $17,011  $(7,431)
             
Discontinued operations:            
Loss from operations of discontinued businesses  (4,651)      
Benefit from income taxes  1,628       
Loss from discontinued operations  (3,023)      
Net income (loss) $3,767  $17,011  $(7,431)
             
Income (loss) from continuing operations $0.12  $0.30  $(0.13)
Loss from discontinued operations  (0.06)  0.00   0.00 
Basic earnings (loss) per common share $0.07  $0.30  $(0.13)
             
Weighted-average shares outstanding  54,428   55,914   58,919 
             
Income (loss) from continuing operations $0.12  $0.30  $(0.13)
Loss from discontinued operations  (0.05)  0.00   0.00 
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share $0.07  $0.30  $(0.13)
             
Weighted-average shares outstanding  56,563   57,329   58,919 
             
Net income (loss) $3,767  $17,011  $(7,431)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:            
Foreign currency translation adjustments  (3,090)  (6,754)  (11,232)
Pension amortization  19,310   (5,081)  (14,074)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes  16,220   (11,835)  (25,306)
Comprehensive income (loss) $19,987  $5,176  $(32,737)



 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Revenue$1,991,811
 $1,871,327
 $1,861,145
Cost of goods and services1,532,412
 1,453,742
 1,442,340
Gross profit459,399
 417,585
 418,805
Selling, general and administrative expenses375,099
 340,469
 341,696
Restructuring and other related charges6,136
 13,262
 4,689
Total operating expenses381,235
 353,731
 346,385
Income from operations78,164
 63,854
 72,420
Other income (expense) 
  
  
Interest expense(48,447) (52,520) (52,007)
Interest income303
 353
 292
Loss from debt extinguishment(38,890) 
 
Other, net3,154
 2,646
 1,236
Total other income (expense)(83,880) (49,521) (50,479)
Income (loss) before taxes(5,716) 14,333
 21,941
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(5,539) 7,543
 4,930
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(177) $6,790
 $17,011
Discontinued operations: 
  
  
Loss from operations of discontinued businesses
 (4,651) 
Benefit from income taxes
 1,628
 
Loss from discontinued operations
 (3,023) 
Net income (loss)$(177) $3,767
 $17,011
      
Income (loss) from continuing operations$0.00
 $0.12
 $0.30
Loss from discontinued operations0.00
 (0.06) 0.00
Basic earnings (loss) per common share$0.00
 $0.07
 $0.30
      
Weighted-average shares outstanding49,367
 54,428
 55,914
      
Income (loss) from continuing operations$0.00
 $0.12
 $0.30
Loss from discontinued operations0.00
 (0.05) 0.00
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share$0.00
 $0.07
 $0.30
      
Weighted-average shares outstanding49,367
 56,563
 57,329
      
Net income (loss)$(177) $3,767
 $17,011
      
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes: 
  
  
Foreign currency translation adjustments(23,933) (3,090) (6,754)
Pension and other post retirement plans(3,914) 19,310
 (5,081)
Gain on available-for-sale securities870
 
 
Gain on cash flow hedge252
 
 
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes(26,725) 16,220
 (11,835)
Comprehensive income (loss)$(26,902) $19,987
 $5,176
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.


54
46


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:            
Net income (loss) $3,767  $17,011  $(7,431)
             
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:            
             
Loss from discontinued operations  3,023       
Depreciation and amortization  70,748   66,264   60,712 
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold        15,152 
Stock-based compensation  12,495   10,439   8,956 
Asset impairment charges - restructuring  4,316       
Provision for losses on accounts receivable  1,801   1,212   1,225 
Amortization of deferred financing costs and debt discounts  6,232   6,023   6,733 
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        26,164 
Deferred income taxes  5,075   (2,627)  (2,749)
(Gain) loss on sale/disposal of assets  (498)  56   (251)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of assets and liabilities acquired:            
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable and contract costs and recognized income not yet billed  (58,026)  27,269   (30,593)
(Increase) decrease in inventories  26,887   9,011   (12,803)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid and other assets  6,678   (3,281)  9,065 
Decrease in accounts payable, accrued liabilities and income taxes payable  652   (46,368)  (42,604)
Other changes, net  2,533   5,121   3,809 
Net cash provided by operating activities  85,683   90,130   35,385 
             
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:            
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment  (64,441)  (68,851)  (87,617)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired     (22,432)  (855)
Change in funds restricted for capital projects        4,629 
Proceeds from sale of assets  1,573   309   1,510 
Net cash used in investing activities  (62,868)  (90,974)  (82,333)
             
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:            
Dividends paid  (5,825)  (4,743)   
Purchase of shares for treasury  (32,521)  (10,382)  (18,139)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt  303   4,000   674,251 
Payments of long-term debt  (16,867)  (18,546)  (498,572)
Change in short-term borrowings  2,950   (1,859)  3,538 
Financing costs  (833)  (97)  (21,653)
Purchase of ESOP shares        (19,973)
Exercise of stock options        2,306 
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net  150   834   7 
Other, net  394   100   345 
Net cash used in financing activities  (52,249)  (30,693)  122,110 
             
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:            
Net cash used in operating activities  (2,090)  (2,801)  (962)
Net cash used in discontinued operations  (2,090)  (2,801)  (962)
             
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents     963   (973)
             
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS  (31,524)  (33,375)  73,227 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  209,654   243,029   169,802 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $178,130  $209,654  $243,029 
             
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:            
Cash paid for interest $47,243  $49,533  $21,396 
Cash paid for taxes  15,665   8,713   10,219 



 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
Net income (loss)$(177) $3,767
 $17,011
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: 
  
  
Loss from discontinued operations
 3,023
 
Depreciation and amortization67,396
 70,748
 66,264
Stock-based compensation11,473
 12,495
 10,439
Asset impairment charges - restructuring191
 4,316
 
Provision for losses on accounts receivable359
 1,813
 1,469
Amortization of deferred financing costs and debt discounts6,427
 6,232
 6,023
Loss from debt extinguishment38,890
 
 
Deferred income taxes(5,131) 5,075
 (2,627)
(Gain) loss on sale/disposal of assets244
 (498) 56
Change in assets and liabilities, net of assets and liabilities acquired: 
  
  
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable and contract costs and recognized income not yet billed6,009
 (58,038) 27,012
(Increase) decrease in inventories(50,461) 26,887
 9,011
(Increase) decrease in prepaid and other assets(4,278) 6,678
 (3,281)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued liabilities and income taxes payable21,304
 652
 (46,368)
Other changes, net1,055
 2,533
 5,121
Net cash provided by operating activities93,301
 85,683
 90,130
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment(77,094) (64,441) (68,851)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired(62,306) 
 (22,432)
Purchase of securities(8,402) 
 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment552
 1,573
 309
Net cash used in investing activities(147,250) (62,868) (90,974)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
Proceeds from issuance of common stock584
 
 
Dividends paid(6,273) (5,825) (4,743)
Purchase of shares for treasury(79,614) (32,521) (10,382)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt691,943
 303
 4,000
Payments of long-term debt(603,094) (16,867) (18,546)
Change in short-term borrowings(749) 2,950
 (1,859)
Financing costs(11,298) (833) (97)
Purchase of ESOP shares(20,000) 
 
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net273
 150
 834
Other, net298
 394
 100
Net cash used in financing activities(27,930) (52,249) (30,693)
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS: 
  
  
Net cash used in operating activities(1,528) (2,090) (2,801)
Net cash used in discontinued operations(1,528) (2,090) (2,801)

47


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)


Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents(2,318) 
 963
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS(85,725) (31,524) (33,375)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD178,130
 209,654
 243,029
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD$92,405
 $178,130
 $209,654
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: 
  
  
Cash paid for interest$60,246
 $47,243
 $49,533
Cash paid for taxes9,626
 15,665
 8,713
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.

55

                    ACCUMULATED       
        CAPITAL IN           OTHER       
  COMMON STOCK  EXCESS OF  RETAINED  TREASURY SHARES  COMPREHENSIVE  DEFERRED    
(in thousands) SHARES  PAR VALUE  PAR VALUE  EARNINGS  SHARES  COST  INCOME (LOSS)  COMPENSATION  Total 
Balance at 9/30/2010  74,580  $18,645  $460,955  $431,584   12,466  $(213,560) $17,582  $(4,491) $710,715 
Net loss           (7,431)              (7,431)
Common stock issued for options exercised  339   85   2,425                  2,510 
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net        7                  7 
Amortization of deferred compensation                       668   668 
Common stock acquired              1,968   (18,139)        (18,139)
Equity awards granted, net  1,265   316   (588)                 (272)
ESOP purchase of common stock                       (19,973)  (19,973)
ESOP allocation of common stock        173                  173 
Stock-based compensation        8,956                  8,956 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax                    (25,306)     (25,306)
Balance at 9/30/2011  76,184  $19,046  $471,928  $424,153   14,434  $(231,699) $(7,724) $(23,796) $651,908 
                                     
Net income           17,011               17,011 
Dividend           (4,743)              (4,743)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net        834                  834 
Amortization of deferred compensation                       2,031   2,031 
Common stock acquired              1,187   (10,382)        (10,382)
Equity awards granted, net  325   81   (1,064)                 (983)
ESOP allocation of common stock        (128)                 (128)
Stock-based compensation        10,439                  10,439 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax                    (11,835)     (11,835)
Balance at 9/30/2012  76,509  $19,127  $482,009  $436,421   15,621  $(242,081) $(19,559) $(21,765) $654,152 
                                     
Net income           3,767               3,767 
Dividend           (5,825)              (5,825)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net        150                  150 
Amortization of deferred compensation                       1,991   1,991 
Common stock acquired              2,906   (32,521)        (32,521)
Equity awards granted, net  1,107   277   (472)                 (195)
ESOP allocation of common stock        230                  230 
Stock-based compensation        12,495                  12,495 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax                    16,220      16,220 
Balance at 9/30/2013  77,616  $19,404  $494,412  $434,363   18,527  $(274,602) $(3,339) $(19,774) $650,464 



48


GRIFFON CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands)


 COMMON STOCK 
CAPITAL IN
EXCESS OF
PAR VALUE
 
RETAINED
EARNINGS
 TREASURY SHARES 
ACCUMULATED OTHER
COMPREHENSIVE
INCOME (LOSS)
 
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION
 Total
(in thousands)SHARES PAR VALUE   SHARES COST   
Balance at 9/30/201176,184
 $19,046
 $471,928
 $424,153
 14,434
 $(231,699) $(7,724) $(23,796) $651,908
Net income
 
 
 17,011
 
 
 
 
 17,011
Dividends
 
 
 (4,743) 
 
 
 
 (4,743)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net
 
 834
 
 
 
 
 
 834
Amortization of deferred compensation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2,031
 2,031
Common stock acquired
 
 
 
 1,187
 (10,382) 
 
 (10,382)
Equity awards granted, net325
 81
 (1,064) 
 
 
 
 
 (983)
ESOP allocation of common stock
 
 (128) 
 
 
 
 
 (128)
Stock-based compensation
 
 10,439
 
 
 
 
 
 10,439
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 (11,835) 
 (11,835)
Balance at 9/30/201276,509
 $19,127
 $482,009
 $436,421
 15,621
 $(242,081) $(19,559) $(21,765) $654,152
Net income
 
 
 3,767
 
 
 
 
 3,767
Dividends
 
 
 (5,825) 
 
 
 
 (5,825)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net
 
 150
 
 
 
 
 
 150
Amortization of deferred compensation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1,991
 1,991
Common stock acquired
 
 
 
 2,906
 (32,521) 
 
 (32,521)
Equity awards granted, net1,107
 277
 (472) 
 
 
 
 
 (195)
ESOP allocation of common stock
 
 230
 
 
 
 
 
 230
Stock-based compensation
 
 12,495
 
 
 
 
 
 12,495
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 16,220
 
 16,220
Balance at 9/30/201377,616
 $19,404
 $494,412
 $434,363
 18,527
 $(274,602) $(3,339) $(19,774) $650,464
Net loss
 
 
 (177) 
 
 
 
 (177)
Dividends
 
 
 (6,273) 
 
 
 
 (6,273)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net
 
 273
 
 
 
 
 
 273
Amortization of deferred compensation
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2,457
 2,457
Common stock issued44
 11
 573
 
 
 
 
 
 584
Common stock acquired
 
 
 
 6,808
 (79,614) 
 
 (79,614)
Equity awards granted, net824
 206
 (358) 
 
 
 
 
 (152)
ESOP purchase of common stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (20,000) (20,000)
ESOP allocation of common stock
 
 (283) 
 
 
 
 
 (283)
Stock-based compensation
 
 11,473
 
 
 
 
 
 11,473
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 (26,725) 
 (26,725)
Balance at 9/30/201478,484
 $19,621
 $506,090
 $427,913
 25,335
 $(354,216) $(30,064) $(37,317) $532,027
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these statements.


56
49



GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

(Unless otherwise indicated, all references to years or year-end refer to Griffon’s fiscal period ending September 30)

30,)



NOTE 1 — DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Description of business


Griffon Corporation (the “Company” or “Griffon”) is a diversified management and holding company that conductsconducting business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. Griffon oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. Griffon provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connection with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. Griffon, to further diversify, also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital.


Headquartered in New York, N.Y., the Company was founded in 1959 and is incorporated in Delaware. Griffon is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the symbol GFF.


Griffon currently conducts its operations through three reportable segments:


Home & Building Products (“HBP”) consists of two companies, The AMES Companies, Inc. (“AMES®”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”):

·
Home & Building Products (“HBP”) consists of two companies, Ames True Temper, Inc (“ATT”) and Clopay Building Products (“CBP”):

-ATT, acquired by Griffon on September 30, 2010,AMES® is a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals.


-
CBP is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains.

·Telephonics Corporation (“Telephonics”) designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide.

·Clopay Plastic Products Company (“Plastics”) is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications. 


Telephonics Corporation (“Telephonics”) designs, develops and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide.

Clopay Plastic Products Company (“Plastics”) is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications. 

Consolidation


The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Griffon and all subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The results of operations of acquired businesses are included from the dates of acquisitions.


Earnings (Loss) per share


Due to rounding, the sum of earnings per share of Continuing operations and Discontinued operations may not equal earnings per share of Net income.

57

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Discontinued operations – Installation Services


In 2008, as a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, Griffon exited substantially all operating activities of its Installation Services segment which sold, installed and serviced garage doors and openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry and a range of related building products, primarily for the new residential housing market. Operating results of substantially all of this segment have been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all periods presented; the Installation Services segment is excluded from segment reporting.


At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon’s assets and liabilities for discontinued operations primarily related to income taxes and product liability, warranty and environmental reserves.

Reclassifications



50


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and adoption of new accounting guidance

non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



Reclassifications
Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.


Use of estimates


The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. These estimates may be adjusted due to changes in economic, industry or customer financial conditions, as well as changes in technology or demand. Significant estimates include allowances for doubtful accounts receivable and returns, net realizable value of inventories, restructuring reserves, valuation of goodwill and intangible assets, percentage of completion method of accounting, pension assumptions, useful lives associated with depreciation and amortization of intangible and fixed assets, warranty reserves, sales incentive accruals, stock based compensation assumptions, income taxes and tax valuation reserves, environmental reserves, legal reserves, insurance reserves, and the valuation of discontinued assets and liabilities of discontinued operations, acquisition assumptions used and the accompanying disclosures. These estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions Griffon may undertake in the future. Actual results may ultimately differ from these estimates.


Cash and equivalents


Griffon considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an initial maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents primarily consist of overnight commercial paper, highly-rated liquid money market funds backed by U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. Agency securities, as well as insured bank deposits. Griffon had cash in non-U.S. bank accounts of approximately $21,400$34,500 and $15,900$21,400 at September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, respectively. Substantially all U.S. cash and equivalents are covered by government insurance or backed by government securities.in excess of FDIC insured limits. Griffon regularly evaluates the financial stability of all institutions and funds that hold its cash and equivalents.


Fair value of financial instruments


The carrying values of cash and equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts and notes payable and revolving credit debt approximate fair value due to either the short-term nature of such instruments or the fact that the interest rate of the revolving credit debt is based upon current market rates.

58

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

The fair valuesvalue hierarchy, as outlined in the applicable accounting guidance, establishes a fair value hierarchy that requires the Company to maximize the use of Griffon’s 2018 senior notesobservable inputs and 2017 4% convertible notes approximated $583,000 and $112,600, respectively,minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the hierarchy is based on September 30, 2013. Fair values were based upon quoted market prices (levelthe lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The accounting guidance establishes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value, as follows:

Level 1 inputs).

Insurance contracts with a value of $3,789 and $4,183 and trading securities with a value of $1,194 and $697 at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively,inputs are measured and recorded at fair value based upon quoted prices in active markets for identical assets.


Level 2 inputs include inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of assets or liabilities.

Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions.
The fair values of Griffon’s 2022 senior notes and 2017 4% convertible notes approximated $570,000 and $110,188, respectively, on September 30, 2014. Fair values were based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).

Insurance contracts with a value of $3,490 at September 30, 2014 are measured and recorded at fair value based upon quoted prices in active markets for similar assets (level 2 inputs) and are included in Other current assets on the consolidated balance sheet.


Items Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis


At September 30, 2014, available-for-sale securities, measured at fair value based on quoted prices in active markets for the underlying assets (level 1 inputs), and trading securities, measured at fair value based on quoted prices in active markets for similar assets (level 2 inputs), with values of $9,770 ($8,400 cost basis) and $1,274 ($1,000 cost basis), respectively, are included in

51


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Prepaid and other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized gains and losses, net of deferred taxes, on available-for-sale securities are included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (‘‘AOCI’’). At September 30, 2013, the Company had no available-for-sale securities and the fair value of trading securities was $1,194. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on trading securities and realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are included in Other income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

In the normal course of business, Griffon’s operations are exposed to the effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. In order to manage these risks, Griffon may enter into various derivative contracts such as foreign currency exchange contracts, including forwards and options. During 2014 and 2013, Griffon entered into several such contracts in order to lock into a foreign currency rate for planned settlements of trade and inter-company liabilities payable in USD. At inception, these hedges were all deemed effective as cash flow hedges with gains and losses related to changes in fair value deferred and recorded in Other comprehensive income (loss) and Prepaid and other current assets until settlement. Upon settlement, gains and losses were recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as Other income. At September 30, 2014, Griffon had $4,975 of Australian dollar contracts at a weighted average rate of $1.14, which qualified for hedge accounting; there were no such contracts outstanding at September 30, 2013. AOCI included deferred gains of $386 ($252, net of tax) at September 30, 2014 and no contracts settled during the year ended September 30, 2014. A gain of $81 was recorded in Other Income in 2013 for the settled contacts and there were no unsettled contracts that qualify for hedge accounting as of September 30, 2013.

contacts.


At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon had $750$3,197 of Australian dollar contracts at a weighted average rate of $1.07.  The$1.14. These contracts, which protect Australia operations from currency fluctuations for U.S. dollar based purchases, do not qualify for hedge accounting and a fair value lossgain of $46$141 was recorded in Accrued liabilitiesOther assets and to Other income net for the outstanding contracts, based on similar contract values (level 2 inputs), for the year ended September 30, 2013,2014, respectively.  All contracts expire in 1520 to 90 days.


Pension plan assets with a fair value of $153,731$154,966 at September 30, 2013,2014, are measured and recorded at fair value based upon quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (level 1 inputs), and quoted market prices for similar assets (level 2 inputs) and derived from audited financial statements (level 3 inputs).


Non-U.S. currency translation


Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. subsidiaries, where the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, have been translated at year-end exchange rates and profit and loss accounts have been translated using weighted average exchange rates. Adjustments resulting from currency translation have been recorded in the equity section of the balance sheet in Accumulated other comprehensive lossAOCI as cumulative translation adjustments. Cumulative translation adjustments were $20,113a loss of $3,820 and $23,202gain of $20,113 at September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, respectively. Assets and liabilities of an entity that are denominated in currencies other than that entity’s functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency using period end exchange rates, or historical rates where applicable to certain balances. Gains and losses arising on remeasurements are recorded within the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as a component of Other income (expense).


Revenue recognition


Revenue is recognized when the following circumstances are satisfied: a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, b) delivery has occurred, title has transferred or services are rendered, c) price is fixed and determinable and d) collectability is reasonably assured. Goods are sold on terms whichthat transfer title and risk of loss at a specified location. Revenue recognition from product sales occurs when all factors are met, including transfer of title and risk of loss, which occurs either upon shipment or upon receipt by customers at the location specified in the terms of sale. Other than standard product warranty provisions, sales arrangements provide for no other significant post-shipment obligations. From time to time and for certain customers, rebates and other sales incentives, promotional allowances or discounts are offered, typically related to customer purchase volumes, all of which are fixed or determinable and are classified as a reduction of revenue and recorded at the time of sale. Griffon provides for sales returns allowances based upon historical returns experience.

59

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Telephonics earns a substantial portion of its revenue as either a prime or subcontractor from contract awards with the U.S. Government, as well as non-U.S. governments and other commercial customers. These formal contracts are typically long-term in nature, usually greater than one year. Revenue and profits from these long-term fixed price contracts are recognized under the percentage-of-completion method of accounting. Revenue and profits on fixed-price contracts that contain engineering as well as production requirements are recorded based on the ratio of total actual incurred costs to date to the total estimated costs for each contract (cost-to-cost method). Using the cost-to-cost method, revenue is recorded at amounts equal to the ratio of actual cumulative costs incurred divided by total estimated costs at completion, multiplied by the total estimated contract revenue, less the cumulative

52


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


revenue recognized in prior periods. The profit recorded on a contract using this method is equal to the current estimated total profit margin multiplied by the cumulative revenue recognized, less the amount of cumulative profit previously recorded for the contract in prior periods. As this method relies on the substantial use of estimates, these projections may be revised throughout the life of a contract. Components of this formula and ratio that may be estimated include gross profit margin and total costs at completion. The cost performance and estimates to complete on long-term contracts are reviewed, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis, as well as when information becomes available that would necessitate a review of the current estimate. Adjustments to estimates for a contract’s estimated costs at completion and estimated profit or loss often are required as experience is gained, and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may or may not change, or if contract modifications occur. The impact of such adjustments or changes to estimates is made on a cumulative basis in the period when such information has become known. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, income from operations included net favorable/(unfavorable) catch-up adjustments approximating $(400), $3,400 and 9,200, respectively. Gross profit is affected by a variety of factors, including the mix of products, systems and services, production efficiencies, price competition and general economic conditions.


Revenue and profits on cost-reimbursable type contracts are recognized as allowable costs, and are incurred on the contract at an amount equal to the allowable costs plus the estimated profit on those costs. The estimated profit on a cost-reimbursable contract may be fixed or variable based on the contractual fee arrangement. Incentive and award fees on these contracts are recorded as revenue when the criteria under which they are earned are reasonably assured of being met and can be estimated.


For contracts whose anticipated total costs exceed the total expected revenue, an estimated loss is recognized in the period when identifiable. A provision for the entire amount of the estimated loss is recorded on a cumulative basis.

The estimated remaining costs to complete loss contracts as of September 30, 2014 was $3,100 and is recorded as a reduction to gross margin on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). This loss had an immaterial impact to Griffon's Consolidated Financial Statements.


Amounts representing contract change orders or claims are included in revenue only when they can be reliably estimated and their realization is probable, and are determined on a percentage-of-completion basis measured by the cost-to-cost method.


From time to time, Telephonics may combine contracts if they are negotiated together, have specific requirements to combine, or are otherwise closely related. Contracts are segmented based on customer requirements.

60

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts and concentrations of credit risk


Accounts receivable is composed principally of trade accounts receivable that arise primarily from the sale of goods or services on account, and is stated at historical cost.A substantial portion of Griffon’s trade receivables are from customers of HBP, of which the largest customer is Home Depot, whose financial condition is dependent on the construction and related retail sectors of the economy. In addition, a significant portion of Griffon’s trade receivables are from one Plastics customer, P&G, whose financial condition is dependent on the consumer products and related sectors of the economy.As a percentage of consolidated accounts receivable, U.S. Government related programs were 19%16%, P&G was 12%7% and Home Depot was 10%9%. Griffon performs continuing evaluations of the financial condition of its customers, and although Griffon generally does not require collateral, letters of credit may be required from customers in certain circumstances.


Trade receivables are recorded at the stated amount, less allowance for doubtful accounts and, when appropriate, for customer program reserves and cash discounts. The allowance represents estimated uncollectible receivables associated with potential customer defaults on contractual obligations (usually due to customers’ potential insolvency). The allowance for doubtful accounts includes amounts for certain customers where a risk of default has been specifically identified, as well as an amount for customer defaults based on a formula when it is determined the risk of some default is probable and estimable, but cannot yet be associated with specific customers. The provision related to the allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded in Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A&A") expenses. The Company writes-off accounts receivable when they are deemed to be uncollectible.


Customer program reserves and cash discounts are netted against accounts receivable when it is customer practice to reduce invoices for these amounts. The amountamounts netted against accounts receivable in 2014 and 2013 were $9,295 and 2012 was $6,556, respectively.

All accounts receivable amounts are expected to be collected in less than one year.

The Company does not currently have customers or contracts that prescribe specific retainage provisions.


53


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and $8,653, respectively.

non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed


Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed consists of amounts accounted for under the percentage of completion method of accounting, recoverable costs and accrued profit that cannot yet be invoiced under the terms of certain long-term contracts. Amounts will be invoiced when applicable contract terms, such as the achievement of specified milestones or product delivery, are met.

At September 30, 2014 and 2013, approximately $8,400 and $11,000, respectively, of contract costs and recognized income not yet billed were expected to be collected after one year. As of September 30, 2014 and 2013, the unbilled receivable balance included $2,200 and $1,900, respectively, of reserves for contract risk.


Inventories


Inventories, stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out or average) or market, include material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs.


Griffon’s businesses typically do not require inventory that is susceptible to becoming obsolete or dated. In general, Telephonics sells products in connection with programs authorized and approved under contracts awarded by the U.S. Government or agencies thereof and in accordance with customer specifications. Plastics primarily produces fabricated materials used by customers in the production of their products and these materials are produced against orders from those customers. HBP produces doors and non-powered lawn and garden tools in response to orders from customers of retailers and dealers or based on expected orders, as applicable.


Property, plant and equipment


Property, plant and equipment includes the historical cost of land, buildings, equipment and significant improvements to existing plant and equipment.equipment or, in the case of acquisitions, a fair market value appraisal of such assets completed at the time of acquisition. Expenditures for maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are expensed as incurred. When property or equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation is removed from the respective accounts and the gain or loss is recognized.

61
No event or indicator of impairment occurred during the three years ended September 30, 2014, which would require additional impairment testing of property, plant and equipment.

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Depreciation expense, which includes amortization of assets under capital leases, was $59,488, $62,911 $58,216 and $52,844$58,216 for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, respectively, and was calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciation included in SG&A expenses was $10,815, $12,733 and $13,136 for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012. The remaining components of depreciation, attributable to manufacturing operations, are included in Cost of goods and services. Estimated useful lives for property, plant and equipment are as follows: buildings and building improvements, 25 to 40 years; machinery and equipment, 2 to 15 years and leasehold improvements, over the term of the lease or life of the improvement, whichever is shorter.


Capitalized interest costs included in Property, plant and equipment were $4,529, $4,030 $2,975 and $2,250$2,975 for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, respectively. The original cost of fully-depreciated property, plant and equipment remaining in use at September 30, 20132014 was approximately $216,000.

$253,272.


Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles


Goodwill is the excess of the acquisition cost of a business over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to an annual impairment test unless during an interim period, impairment indicators such as a significant change in the business climate exist.


Griffon performed its annual impairment testing of goodwill as of September 30, 2013.2014. The performance of the test involves a two-step process. The first step involves comparing the fair value of Griffon’s reporting units with the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill. Griffon generally determines the fair value of its reporting units using the income approach methodology of valuation that includes the present value of expected future cash flows. This method uses market assumptions specific to Griffon’s reporting units. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, Griffon performs the second step of the goodwill impairment test to determine the amount of impairment loss. The second step compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill.



54


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Griffon defines its reporting units as its three segments.

reportable segments: HBP, Telephonics and Plastics. HBP consists of two components, AMES® and CBP, which due to their similar economic characteristics, are aggregated into one reporting unit for goodwill testing.


Griffon used five5 year projections and a 3.0% terminal value to which discount rates between 9% and 11.25%10% were applied to calculate each unit’s fair value. To substantiate fair values derived from the income approach methodology of valuation, the implied fair value was reconciled to Griffon’s market capitalization, the results of which supported the implied fair values. Any changes in key assumptions or management judgment with respect to a reporting unit or its prospects, which may result from a decline in Griffon’s stock price, a change in market conditions, market trends, interest rates or other factors outside Griffon’s control, or significant underperformance relative to historical or project future operating results, could result in a significantly different estimate of the fair value of the reporting units, which could result in a future impairment charge.

charge (level 3 inputs).


Based upon the results of the annual impairment review, it was determined that the fair value of each reporting unit substantially exceeded the carrying value of the assets, as performed under step one, and no impairment existed.


Similar to goodwill, Griffon tests indefinite-lived intangible assets at least annually and when indicators of impairment exist. Griffon uses a discounted cash flow method to calculate and compare the fair value of the intangible to its book value. This method uses market assumptions specific to Griffon’s reporting units, which are reasonable and supportable. If the fair value is less than the book value of the indefinite-lived intangibles, an impairment charge would be recognized.

62

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data) Griffon. Griffon accrues for claim exposures that are probable of occurrence and can be reasonably estimated. Insurance is maintained to transfer risk beyond the level of self-retention and provides protection on both an individual claim and annual aggregate basis.

There was no impairment related to any goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets inat September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 or 2011.

2012.


Definite-lived long-lived assets


Amortizable intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. For financial reporting purposes, definite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives, generally eight to twenty-five years.Long-livedyears.Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Determination of recoverability is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition.


There were no indicators of impairment during the three years ending September 30, 2013.

2014.

Income taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the liability method. Deferred taxes reflect the tax consequences on future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts. The carrying value of Griffon’s deferred tax assets is dependent upon Griffon’s ability to generate sufficient future taxable income in certain tax jurisdictions. Should Griffon determine that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized, a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets would be established in the period such determination was made.

Griffon provides for uncertain tax positions and any related interest and penalties based upon Management’s assessment of whether a tax benefit is more likely than not of being sustained upon examination by tax authorities. At September 30, 20132014 Griffon believes that it has appropriately accounted for all unrecognized tax benefits. As of September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, Griffon has recorded unrecognized tax benefits in the amount of $7,906, $10,520 $11,876 and $12,910,$11,876, respectively. Accrued interest and penalties related to income tax matters are recorded in the provision for income taxes.

Research and development costs, shipping and handling costs and advertising costs

Research and development costs not recoverable under contractual arrangements are charged to SG&A expense as incurred and amounted to $23,400, $22,400 and $23,600 in 2014, 2013 and $23,900 in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.

Selling, general and administrative (“

SG&A”)&A expenses include shipping and handling costs of $42,400 in 2014, $39,600 in 2013 and $40,200 in 2012 and $41,600 in 2011 and advertising costs, which are expensed as incurred, of $24,000 in 2014, $23,000 in 2013 and $22,000 in 20122012.

55


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and $23,000non US currencies in 2011.

thousands, except per share data)



Risk, retention and insurance


Griffon’s property and casualty insurance programs contain various deductibles that, based on Griffon’s experience, are reasonable and customary for a company of its size and risk profile. Griffon generally maintains deductibles for claims and liabilities related primarily to workers’ compensation, general, product and automobile liability as well as property damage and business interruption losses resulting from certain events. Griffon does not consider any of the deductibles to represent a material risk to Griffin,Griffon. Griffon accrues for claim exposures that are probable of occurenceoccurrence and can be reasonably estimated. Insurance is maintained to transfer risk beyond the level of self-retention and provides protection on both an individual claim and annual aggregate basis.

63

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data) beginning in 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

In the U.S., Griffon currently self-assumes its general and product liability claims up to $350 per occurrence and its workers’ compensation and automobile liability claims up to $250 per occurrence. Third-party insurance provides primary level coverage in excess of these deductible amounts up to certain specified limits. In addition, Griffon has excess liability insurance from third-party insurers on both an aggregate and an individual occurrence basis substantially in excess of the limits of the primary coverage.

Griffon has local insurance coverage in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Turkey, China, Sweden, and Mexico. Griffon has worldwide excess coverage above these local programs.

Griffon Corporation and its U.S. subsidiaries also self insures health related claims to a maximum of $300 per participant, per year.

Pension benefits


Griffon sponsors defined and supplemental benefit pension plans for certain active and retired employees. Annual amounts relating to these plans are recorded based on actuarial projections, which include various actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, assumed rates of return, compensation increases and turnover rates. The actuarialActuarial assumptions used to determine pension liabilities, and assets as well as pensionand expense are reviewed on an annual basis when modifications to assumptions are madeannually and modified based on current economic conditions and trends. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the nature of the plans’plan's investments and expectations for long-term rates of return. The discount rate used to measure obligations is based on a corporate bond spot-rate yield curve that matches projected future benefit payments, with the appropriate spot rate applicable to the timing of the projected future benefit payments. The assumptions utilizedAssumptions used in recordingdetermining Griffon’s obligations under the defined benefit pension plans are believed to be reasonable, based on experience and advice from independent actuaries; however, differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions may materially affect Griffon’s financial position or results of operations.

The U.S. components


All of the defined benefit plans, which excludes the supplemental and post retirement healthcare and insurance benefit plans are frozen and have ceased accruing benefits.


Newly issued but not yet effective accounting pronouncements

In February 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiring enhanced disclosures for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. The guidance does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in the financial statements. This guidance is effective prospectively for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. As this new guidance is related to presentation only, the implementation of this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014 will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.


In July 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiring an unrecognized tax benefit to be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss or tax credit carryforward, except for instances when the carryforward is not available to settle any additional income taxes and an entity does not intend to use the deferred tax benefit for these purposes. In these circumstances, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning in 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.

64

In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance changing the requirements for reporting discontinued operations where a disposal of a component of an entity or group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results when either classified as held for sale, or disposed of by sale or otherwise disposed. The amendment also requires enhanced disclosures about the discontinued operation and disclosure information for other significant dispositions. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning in 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations; early adoption permitted for disposals that have not been previously reported.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance on revenue from contracts with customers. The underlying principle is that an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance provides a five-step analysis of transactions to determine when and how revenue is recognized. Other major provisions include capitalization of certain contract costs, consideration of time value of money in the transaction price, and allowing estimates of variable consideration to be recognized before contingencies are resolved, in certain circumstances. The guidance also requires enhanced disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity's contracts with customers. This guidance permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method and is effective for the Company beginning in 2017; early adoption is not permitted. We have not yet selected a transition method and are currently evaluating the impact of the guidance on the Company's financial condition, results of operations and related disclosures.

In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance on management's responsibility in evaluating whether there is substantial doubt about a company's ability to continue as a going concern and related footnote disclosures. Management will be required to evaluate, at each reporting period, whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about a company's ability to continue as a going concern within one year from the date the financial statements are issued. This guidance is effective prospectively for

56


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Recently issued effective accounting pronouncements

In June 2011, the FASB issued new accounting guidance requiring the presentationof comprehensive income, the components of net income,



annual and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income, or in two separate but consecutive statements. The new accounting rules eliminate the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in shareholders’ equity. The new accounting rules were effective for the Companyinterim reporting period beginning in 2013 and did2017; implementation of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations and the Company presented comparable financial results.

operations.


Recently issued effective accounting pronouncements

In September 2011,February 2013, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to performrequiring enhanced disclosures for items reclassified out of AOCI. It does not amend existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in the two-step quantitative impairment testing of goodwill and indefinite life intangibles.financial statements. This guidance iswas effective, prospectively, for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012, with early adoption permitted. As this guidance relates to presentation only, implementation in the Company beginning in 2013 and did not have an impactfirst quarter of fiscal 2014 had no effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.


The Company has implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect and that may impact its financial statements and does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.


NOTE 2 — ACQUISITIONS


Griffon accounts for acquisitions under the acquisition method, in which assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at fair value as of the date of acquisition using method substantially similar to the good impairment test methodology (level 3 inputs). The operating results of the acquired companies are included in Griffon’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. 

2014 Acquisitions

On May 21, 2014, AMES acquired the Australian Garden and Tools business of Illinois Tool Works, Inc. (“Cyclone”) for approximately $40,000, including a $4,000 working capital adjustment. Cyclone, which was integrated with AMES, offers a full range of quality garden and hand tool products sold under various leading brand names including Cyclone®, Nylex® and Trojan®, designed to meet the requirements of both the Do-it-Yourself and professional trade segments. Current year SG&A expenses include $2,363 of related acquisition costs.

On December 31, 2013, AMES acquired Northcote Pottery™ (“Northcote”), founded in 1897 and a leading brand in the Australian outdoor planter and decor market, for approximately $22,000. Northcote complements Southern Patio®, acquired in 2011, and adds to AMES’ existing lawn and garden operations in Australia. Current year SG&A expenses include $798 of related acquisition costs.

The accounts of the acquired companies, after adjustment to reflect fair market values , have been included in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition; in each instance, acquired inventory was not significant. Griffon is in the process of finalizing the initial purchase price allocation as of the date of these financial statements, primarily with respect to the finalization of tax accounts.
 CycloneNorthcoteTotal
Current Assets and Other, net of cash acquired$21,116
$7,398
$28,514
PP&E488
1,385
1,873
Goodwill11,322
11,254
22,576
Amortizable intangible assets11,608
6,098
17,706
Indefinite life intangible assets3,548
3,121
6,669
Total assets acquired$48,082
$29,256
$77,338
Total liabilities assumed(8,557)(7,475)$(16,032)
Net assets acquired$39,525
$21,781
$61,306

57


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


The amounts assigned to major intangible asset classifications, none of which are tax deductible, are as follows:
 CycloneNorthcoteTotalAmortization
Period (Years)
Goodwill$11,322
$11,254
$22,576
N/A
Trade names3,548
3,121
6,669
Indefinite
Customer relationships11,608
6,098
17,706
25
 $26,478
$20,473
$46,951
 

2012 Acquisition

On October 17, 2011, Griffon acquired the pots and planters business of Southern Sales & Marketing Group, Inc. (“SSMG”) for $22,432. The acquired business, which markets its products under the Southern PatioPatio® brand name, (“Southern Patio”), is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of landscape accessories. Southern Patio,Patio®, which, upon acquisition, was integrated with ATT,AMES, had revenue exceeding $40,000 in 2011.


The accounts of the acquired company, after adjustments to reflect fair market values assigned to assets purchased, from SSMG, have been included in the consolidated financial statements from date of acquisition; acquired inventory was not significant.

The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired as of the date of the acquisition and the amounts assigned to goodwill and intangible asset classifications:

Inventory$3,673
PP&E416
Goodwill4,655
Amortizable intangible assets11,077
Indefinite life intangible assets2,611
Total assets acquired$22,432

The amounts assigned to goodwill and major intangible asset classifications, all of which are tax deductible, for the Southern PatioPatio® acquisition are as follows:

65

   
Amortization
Period (Years)
Goodwill$4,655
 N/A
Trade names2,611
 Indefinite
Customer relationships11,077
 25
 $18,343
  
NOTE 3 — INVENTORIES
The following table details the components of inventory:
 At September 30,
2014
 At September 30,
2013
Raw materials and supplies$75,560
 $65,560
Work in process67,866
 63,930
Finished goods146,709
 100,630
Total$290,135
 $230,120

58


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

     Amortization 
     Period (Years) 
Goodwill $4,655   N/A 
Tradenames  2,611   Indefinite 
Customer relationships  11,077   25 
  $18,343     

NOTE 3 — INVENTORIES

The following table details the components of inventory:

  At September 30,  At September 30, 
  2013  2012 
Raw materials and supplies $65,560  $63,596 
Work in process  63,930   67,077 
Finished goods  100,630   127,195 
Total $230,120  $257,868 



NOTE 4 — PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The following table details the components of property, plant and equipment, net:

  At September 30,  At September 30, 
  2013  2012 
Land, building and building improvements $130,905  $125,330 
Machinery and equipment  661,094   622,983 
Leasehold improvements  35,884   34,890 
   827,883   783,203 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization  (474,290)  (426,324)
Total $353,593  $356,879 

 At September 30,
2014
 At September 30,
2013
Land, building and building improvements$127,714
 $130,905
Machinery and equipment720,417
 661,094
Leasehold improvements42,852
 35,884
 890,983
 827,883
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(520,418) (474,290)
Total$370,565
 $353,593


NOTE 5 — GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES

The following table provides changes in carrying value of goodwill by segment through the year ended September 30, 2013:

  At September 30, 2011  Goodwill from
2012
acquisitions
  Other adjustments including currency translations  At September 30, 2012  Other adjustments including currency translations  At September 30, 2013 
Home & Building Products $265,147  $4,655  $  $269,802  $  $269,802 
Telephonics  18,545         18,545      18,545 
Plastics  74,196      (4,171)  70,025   (642)  69,383 
Total $357,888  $4,655  $(4,171) $358,372  $(642) $357,730 

2014:

 At September 30,
2012
 Other adjustments including currency translations At September 30,
2013
 Goodwill from 2014 acquisitions Other adjustments including currency translations At September 30, 2014
Home & Building Products$266,531
 $
 $266,531
 $22,576
 $(711) $288,396
Telephonics18,545
 
 18,545
 
 
 18,545
Plastics70,025
 (642) 69,383
 
 (4,478) 64,905
Total$355,101
 $(642) $354,459
 $22,576
 $(5,189) $371,846
The following table provides the gross carrying value and accumulated amortization for each major class of intangible asset:

66

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

  At September 30, 2013     At September 30, 2012 
  Gross Carrying Amount  Accumulated Amortization  Average
Life
(Years)
  Gross Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated Amortization 
                
Customer relationships $166,985  $29,049   25  $167,603  $21,799 
Unpatented technology  6,804   2,916   12.5   6,751   2,334 
Total amortizable intangible assets  173,789   31,965       174,354   24,133 
Trademarks  79,567          80,252    
Total intangible assets $253,356  $31,965      $254,606  $24,133 

 At September 30, 2014   At September 30, 2013
 Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization 
Average
Life
(Years)
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 Accumulated Amortization
Customer relationships$180,282
 $35,280
 25 $166,985
 $29,049
Unpatented technology6,500
 3,313
 12.5 6,804
 2,916
Total amortizable intangible assets186,782
 38,593
   173,789
 31,965
Trademarks85,434
 
   79,567
 
Total intangible assets$272,216
 $38,593
   $253,356
 $31,965
Amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization was $7,908, $7,837 $8,048 and $7,867$8,048 for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, respectively. Amortization expense for each of the next five years and thereafter, based on current intangible balances and classifications, is estimated as follows: 2014 - $7,513; 2015 - $7,357;$7,979; 2016 - $7,244;$7,867; 2017 - $7,164 and$7,788; 2018 - $7,092;$7,717 and 2019 - $7,576; thereafter - $105,454.

$109,261.


NOTE 6 — DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

In 2008, as a result of the downturn in the residential housing market, Griffon exited substantially all operating activities of its Installation Services segment which sold, installed and serviced garage doors and openers, fireplaces, floor coverings, cabinetry
and a range of related building products, primarily for the new residential housing market. OperatingIn 2008, Griffon sold eleven units, closed one unit and merged two units into CBP. Griffon substantially concluded its remaining disposal activities in 2009.


59


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Installation Services operating results of substantially all of this segment have been reported as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for all periods presented; the Installation Services segment is excluded from segment reporting.

In 2008, Griffon’s Board of Directors approved a plan to exit substantially all operating activities of the Installation Services segment. In 2008, Griffon sold eleven units, closed one unit and merged two units into CBP.

Griffon substantially concluded its remaining disposal activities in 2009. There was no reported revenue in 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.

2012.

In 2013, the Company recorded a $4,651 charge to discontinued operations increasing environmental and casualty insurance reserves. A portion of this charge relates to ongoing and potential future homeowner association claims related to the former Installation Services business; claims experience has been greater than anticipated when reserves were initially established in 2008. The adjustment to environmental reserves relates to changes in status of and approach to cleanup requirements for businesses that were discontinued several years ago.

At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon’s assets and liabilities for discontinued operations primarily related to income taxes and product liability, warranty and environmental reserves.

The following amounts related primarily to the Installation Services segment have been segregated from Griffon’s continuing operations and are reported as assets and liabilities of discontinued operations in the consolidated balance sheets:

67

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

  At September 30,
2013
  At September 30,
2012
 
Assets of discontinued operations:        
Prepaid and other current assets $1,214  $587 
Other long-term assets  3,075   2,936 
Total assets of discontinued operations $4,289  $3,523 
         
Liabilities of discontinued operations:        
Accrued liabilities, current $3,288  $3,639 
Other long-term liabilities  4,744   3,643 
Total liabilities of discontinued operations $8,032  $7,282 

68

GRIFFON CORPORATION

 At September 30,
2014
 At September 30,
2013
Assets of discontinued operations: 
  
Prepaid and other current assets$1,624
 $1,214
Other long-term assets2,126
 3,075
Total assets of discontinued operations$3,750
 $4,289
    
Liabilities of discontinued operations: 
  
Accrued liabilities, current$3,282
 $3,288
Other long-term liabilities3,830
 4,744
Total liabilities of discontinued operations$7,112
 $8,032

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

NOTE 7 — ACCRUED LIABILITIES


The following table details the components of accrued liabilities:

  

At September 30,

2013

  

At September 30,

2012

 
Compensation $44,771  $42,637 
Interest  20,616   20,588 
Warranties and rebates  10,245   10,589 
Insurance  7,511   8,373 
Rent, utilities and freight  2,224   3,649 
Income and other taxes  5,045   4,072 
Royalties  343   2,071 
Marketing and advertising  1,985   1,513 
Deferred income taxes     129 
Restructuring  3,857   3,640 
Other  10,146   13,076 
Total $106,743  $110,337 

 At September 30,
2014
 At September 30,
2013
Compensation$57,860
 $44,771
Interest3,400
 20,616
Warranties and rebates6,950
 10,245
Insurance9,010
 7,678
Rent, utilities and freight1,653
 2,224
Income and other taxes6,446
 6,020
Royalties347
 343
Marketing and advertising1,650
 1,985
Restructuring5,228
 3,857
Other8,748
 9,004
Total$101,292
 $106,743

NOTE 8 – RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER RELATEDCHARGES


During 2014, Telephonics recognized $4,244 in restructuring costs in connection with the closure of its Swedish facility and restructuring of operations, a voluntary early retirement plan and a reduction in force aimed at improving efficiency by combining functions and responsibilities, resulting in the elimination of 80 positions.

In January 2013, ATTAMES announced its intention to close certain of its manufacturing facilities and consolidate affected operations primarily into its Camp Hill and Carlisle, PA locations.locations. The intended actions, to be completed by the end of calendar 2014, will

60


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


improve manufacturing and distribution efficiencies, allow for in-sourcing of certain production currently performed by third party suppliers, and improve material flow and absorption of fixed costs.

ATT


AMES anticipates incurring pre-tax restructuring and related exit costs approximating $8,000, comprised of cash charges of $4,000 and non-cash, asset-related charges of $4,000; the cash charges will include $3,000$2,500 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel-related costs and $1,000$1,500 for facility exit costs. ATTcosts. AMES expects $20,000 in capital expenditures in connection with this initiative and, to date, has incurred $6,553$7,941 and $11,937$17,728 in restructuring costs and capital expenditures, respectively.


In 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, HBP recognized $1,892, $7,739 and $874, and $4,497, respectively, inof restructuring and other related exit costs.costs. In 2014 and 2013, restructuring and other related charges primarily related to one-time termination benefits, facility costs, other personnel costs and asset impairment charges related to the ATT and BPCAMES' plant consolidation initiatives.initiative and, in 2013, CBP's consolidation of its Auburn, Washington facility into its Russia, Ohio facility. In 2012, and 2011, ATTAMES restructuring and other related exit costs primarily related to termination benefits for operating personnel due to the closing of the Bernie, MO facility and other administrative personnel. Over the three years,year period, HBP headcount was reduced by 144.

During 2013, BPC completed the consolidation206 as a result of its Auburn, Washington facility into its Russia, Ohio facility.

In June 2009, BPC undertook to consolidate its manufacturing facilities. These actions were completed in 2011. CBP incurred total pre-tax exit and restructuring costs approximating $9,031, substantially all of which were cash charges; charges include $1,160 for one-time termination benefits and other personnel costs, $210 for excess facilities and related costs, and $7,661 for other exit costs, primarily in connection with production realignment, and had $10,365 of capital expenditures. The restructuring costs were $3,611 in 2011 and $4,180 in 2010.

69
these actions.

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

During 2013, Plastics Europe undertook to exit low margin businesses and eliminate approximately 80 positions, resulting in a restructuring cash charge of $4,773. These actions were essentially complete at September 30, 2013.


During 2013 and 2012, Telephonics recognized $750 inand $3,815, respectively, of restructuring costscharges in connection with the termination of a facility lease. The facility was vacated as a result of the headcount reductionsvoluntary early retirement plan offerings and other costs related to changes in organizational structure undertaken by Telephonics in the past two years. In 2012 and 2011, Telephonics recognized $3,815 and $3,046 of restructuringfacilities; such charges were primarily related to two separate voluntary early retirement plan and other restructuring costs,personnel-related, reducing headcount by 185 over the two year period.

employees.


A summary of the restructuring and other related charges included in the line item“Restructuring “Restructuring and other related charges” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations recognized for 2011, 2012, 2013 and 20132014 were as follows:

  Workforce
Reduction
  Facilities &
Exit Costs
  Other Related
Costs
  Non-cash
Facility and
Other
  Total 
Amounts incurred in the year ended:                    
September 30, 2011 $3,789  $1,809  $1,945  $  $7,543 
September 30, 2012  4,204   379   106      4,689 
September 30, 2013  5,649   1,668   1,629   4,316   13,262 

 
Workforce
Reduction
 
Facilities &
Exit Costs
 
Other Related
Costs
 
Non-cash
Facility and
Other
 Total
Amounts incurred in the year ended:         
September 30, 2012$4,204
 $379
 $106
 $
 $4,689
September 30, 20135,649
 1,668
 1,629
 4,316
 13,262
September 30, 20145,382
 548
 206
 
 6,136

The activity in the restructuring accrual recorded in Accrued liabilities consisted of the following:

  Workforce
Reduction
  Facilities &
Exit Costs
  Other Related
Costs
  Total 
             
Accrued liability at September 30, 2011 $2,657  $  $  $2,657 
Charges  4,204   379   106   4,689 
Payments  (3,361)  (239)  (106)  (3,706)
Accrued liability at September 30, 2012 $3,500  $140  $  $3,640 
Charges  5,649   1,668   1,629   8,946 
Payments  (6,092)  (1,415)  (1,222)  (8,729)
Accrued liability at September 30, 2013 $3,057  $393  $407  $3,857 
 
Workforce
Reduction
 
Facilities &
Exit Costs
 
Other Related
Costs
 Total
Accrued liability at September 30, 2012$3,500
 $140
 $
 $3,640
Charges5,649
 1,668
 1,629
 8,946
Payments(6,092) (1,415) (1,222) (8,729)
Accrued liability at September 30, 2013$3,057
 $393
 $407
 $3,857
Charges5,382
 548
 206
 6,136
Payments(3,211) (941) (613) (4,765)
Accrued liability at September 30, 2014$5,228
 $
 $
 $5,228

NOTE 9 –WARRANTY LIABILITY


Telephonics offers warranties against product defects for periods generally ranging from one to two years, depending on the specific product and terms of the customer purchase agreement. Typical warranties require Telephonics to repair or replace the defective products during the warranty period at no cost to the customer.customer. At the time revenue is recognized, Griffon records a liability for warranty costs, estimated based on historical experience, and periodically assesses its warranty obligations and adjusts the liability as necessary. ATTAMES offers an express limited warranty for a period of ninety days on all products unless otherwise stated on the product or packaging from the date of original purchase.

Changes in Griffon’s warranty liability, included in Accrued liabilities, were as follows:


70
61


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

  Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012 
Balance, beginning of period $8,856  $7,963 
Warranties issued and changes in estimated pre-existing warranties  2,331   6,088 
Actual warranty costs incurred  (4,538)  (5,195)
Balance, end of period $6,649  $8,856 




Changes in Griffon’s warranty liability, included in Accrued liabilities, were as follows:
 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013
Balance, beginning of period$6,649
 $8,856
Warranties issued and changes in estimated pre-existing warranties2,379
 2,331
Actual warranty costs incurred(4,094) (4,538)
Balance, end of period$4,934
 $6,649

NOTE 10 — NOTES PAYABLE, CAPITALIZED LEASESAND LONG-TERM DEBT


The present value of the net minimum payments on capitalized leases as of September 30, 20132014 was follows:

  At September 30,
2013
 
Total minimum lease payments $11,972 
Less amount representing interest payments  (2,128)
Present value of net minimum lease payments  9,844 
Current portion  (1,106)
Capitalized lease obligation, less current portion $8,738 


 At September 30,
2014
Total minimum lease payments$11,430
Less amount representing interest payments(1,739)
Present value of net minimum lease payments9,691
Current portion(1,446)
Capitalized lease obligation, less current portion$8,245

Minimum payments under capital leases for the next five years are as follows: $1,579 in 2014, $1,550$1,905 in 2015, $1,511$1,878 in 2016, $1,437$1,646 in 2017, $1,425$1,514 in 2018, $1,424 in 2019 and $4,470$3,063 thereafter.


Included in the consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2014 under Property, plant and equipment, are costs and accumulated depreciation subject to capitalized leases of $16,446 and $6,755, respectively, and included in Other assets are deferred interest charges of $181.Included in the consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2013, under Property, plant and equipment are costs and accumulated depreciation subject to capitalized leases of $15,304 and $5,460, respectively, and included in Other assets are deferred interest charges of $207$207..Included in the consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2012 under property, plant and equipment are costs and accumulated depreciation subject to capitalized leases of $15,342 and $4,414, respectively, and included in other assets are deferred interest charges of $232.TheThe capitalized leases carry interest rates from 5% to 10% and mature from 20142015 through 2022.Amortization2022.Amortization expense was $1,579, $1,605, and $1,598 in 2014, 2013 and $1,663 in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.


In October 2006, a subsidiary of Griffon entered into a capital lease totaling $14,290 for real estate it occupies in Troy, Ohio. Approximately $10,000 was used to acquire the building and the remaining amount was used for improvements. The lease matures in 2022, bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.0%, is secured by a mortgage on the real estate and is guaranteed by Griffon.

71

Debt at September 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following:

62


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Debt at



   At September 30, 2014
   
Outstanding
Balance
 
Original
Issuer
Discount
 
Balance
Sheet
 
Capitalized
Fees &
Expenses
 
Coupon
Interest Rate
Senior note due 2022(a) $600,000
 $
 $600,000
 $9,553
 5.25%
Revolver due 2019(b) 25,000
 
 25,000
 2,009
 n/a
Convert. debt due 2017(c) 100,000
 (9,584) 90,416
 1,034
 4.00%
Real estate mortgages(d) 16,388
 
 16,388
 576
 n/a
ESOP Loans(e) 38,946
 
 38,946
 262
 n/a
Capital lease - real estate(f) 8,551
 
 8,551
 181
 5.00%
Non U.S. lines of credit(f) 3,306
 
 3,306
 
 n/a
Non U.S. term loans(g) 28,470
 
 28,470
 161
 n/a
Other long term debt(g) 1,910
 
 1,910
 24
 n/a
Totals  822,571
 (9,584) 812,987
 $13,800
  
less: Current portion  (7,886) 
 (7,886)  
  
Long-term debt  $814,685
 $(9,584) $805,101
  
  
   At September 30, 2013
   
Outstanding
Balance
 
Original
Issuer
Discount
 
Balance
Sheet
 
Capitalized
Fees &
Expenses
 
Coupon
Interest Rate
Senior notes due 2018(a) $550,000
 $
 $550,000
 $7,328
 7.10%
Revolver due 2019(a) 
 
 
 2,425
 n/a
Convert. debt due 2017(b) 100,000
 (13,246) 86,754
 1,478
 4.00%
Real estate mortgages(c) 13,212
 
 13,212
 185
 n/a
ESOP Loans(d) 21,098
 
 21,098
 24
 n/a
Capital lease - real estate(e) 9,529
 
 9,529
 207
 5.00%
Non U.S. lines of credit(f) 4,606
 
 4,606
 
 n/a
Non U.S. term loans(f) 3,115
 
 3,115
 27
 n/a
Other long term debt(g) 941
 
 941
 
  
Totals  702,501
 (13,246) 689,255
 $11,674
  
less: Current portion  (10,768) 
 (10,768)  
  
Long-term debt  $691,733
 $(13,246) $678,487
  
  

Interest expense consists of the following for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:

    At September 30, 2013 
    Outstanding
Balance
  Original
Issuer
Discount
  Balance
Sheet
  Capitalized
Fees &
Expenses
  Coupon
Interest Rate
 
Senior notes due 2018 (a) $550,000  $  $550,000  $7,328   7.100%
Revolver due 2018 (a)           2,425   n/a 
Convert. debt due 2017 (b)  100,000   (13,246)  86,754   1,478   4.000%
Real estate mortgages (c)  13,212      13,212   185   n/a 
ESOP Loans (d)  21,098      21,098   24   n/a 
Capital lease - real estate (e)  9,529      9,529   207   5.000%
Term loan due 2013 (f)  2,704      2,704   23   n/a 
Revolver due 2013 (f)              n/a 
Foreign lines of credit (g)  4,606      4,606      n/a 
Foreign term loan (g)  411      411   4   n/a 
Other long term debt (h)  941      941      n/a 
Totals    702,501   (13,246)  689,255  $11,674     
less: Current portion    (10,768)     (10,768)        
Long-term debt   $691,733  $(13,246) $678,487         

    At September 30, 2012 
    Outstanding
Balance
  Original
Issuer
Discount
  Balance
Sheet
  Capitalized
Fees &
Expenses
  Coupon
Interest Rate
 
Senior notes due 2018 (a) $550,000  $  $550,000  $8,862   7.125%
Revolver due 2016 (a)           2,175   n/a 
Convert. debt due 2017 (b)  100,000   (16,607)  83,393   1,921   4.000%
Real estate mortgages (c)  14,063      14,063   271   n/a 
ESOP Loans (d)  22,723      22,723   32   n/a 
Capital lease - real estate (e)  10,455      10,455   232   5.000%
Term loan due 2013 (f)  12,873      12,873   107   n/a 
Revolver due 2013 (f)              n/a 
Foreign lines of credit (g)  2,064      2,064      n/a 
Foreign term loan (g)  2,693      2,693   19   n/a 
Other long term debt (h)  1,346      1,346        
Totals    716,217   (16,607)  699,610  $13,619     
less: Current portion    (17,703)     (17,703)        
Long-term debt   $698,514  $(16,607) $681,907         

2012.

72
63


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Interest expense consists of the following for the years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011.

    

Year Ended September 30, 2013

 
    Effective
Interest Rate
  Cash Interest  Amort. Debt
Discount
  Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
  Total Interest
Expense
 
Senior notes due 2018 (a)  7.4% $39,188  $  $1,626  $40,814 
Revolver due 2018 (a)  n/a   785      582   1,367 
Convert. debt due 2017 (b)  9.1%  4,000   3,361   443   7,804 
Real estate mortgages (c)  4.9%  538      86   624 
ESOP Loans (d)  2.9%  628      8   636 
Capital lease - real estate (e)  5.3%  504      25   529 
Term loan due 2013 (f)  3.9%  271      87   358 
Revolver due 2013 (f)  0.5%  68         68 
Foreign lines of credit (g)  12.9%  520         520 
Foreign term loan (g)  9.8%  216      14   230 
Other long term debt (h)      553         553 
Capitalized interest        (983)        (983)
Totals       $46,288  $3,361  $2,871  $52,520 

    Year Ended September 30, 2012 
    Effective
Interest Rate
  Cash Interest  Amort. Debt
Discount
  Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
  Total Interest
Expense
 
Senior notes due 2018 (a)  7.4% $39,188  $  $1,623  $40,811 
Revolver due 2016 (a)  n/a   881      622   1,503 
Convert. debt due 2017 (b)  9.2%  4,000   3,086   443   7,529 
Real estate mortgages (c)  4.0%  575      86   661 
ESOP Loans (d)  3.0%  707      6   713 
Capital lease - real estate (e)  5.3%  551      25   576 
Term loan due 2013 (f)  5.0%  831      87   918 
Foreign lines of credit (g)  14.3%  228         228 
Foreign term loan (g)  10.5%  238      11   249 
Other long term debt (h)      680      34   714 
Capitalized interest        (1,895)        (1,895)
Totals       $45,984  $3,086  $2,937  $52,007 

73


   Year Ended September 30, 2014
   
Effective
Interest Rate
 Cash Interest 
Amort. Debt
Discount
 
Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
 
Total Interest
Expense
Senior notes due 2018(a) 7.4% $15,930
 $
 $667
 $16,597
Senior notes due 2022(a) 5.25% 18,550
 
 759
 19,309
Revolver due 2018(a) n/a
 1,094
 
 570
 1,664
Convert. debt due 2017(b) 9.1% 4,000
 3,662
 443
 8,105
Real estate mortgages(c) 3.9% 500
 
 144
 644
ESOP Loans(d) 2.8% 747
 
 54
 801
Capital lease - real estate(e) 5.3% 456
 
 25
 481
Non U.S. lines of credit(g) n/a
 919
 
 27
 946
Non U.S. term loans(g) n/a
 847
 
 36
 883
Other long term debt(h) n/a
 (13) 
 40
 27
Capitalized interest   
 (1,010) 
 
 (1,010)
Totals   
 $42,020
 $3,662
 $2,765
 $48,447
   Year Ended September 30, 2013
   
Effective
Interest Rate
 Cash Interest 
Amort. Debt
Discount
 
Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
 
Total Interest
Expense
Senior notes due 2018(a) 7.4% $39,188
 $
 $1,626
 $40,814
Revolver due 2016(a) n/a
 785
 
 582
 1,367
Convert. debt due 2017(b) 9.1% 4,000
 3,361
 443
 7,804
Real estate mortgages(c) 4.9% 538
 
 86
 624
ESOP Loans(d) 2.9% 628
 
 8
 636
Capital lease - real estate(e) 5.3% 504
 
 25
 529
Term loan due 2013(f) 3.9% 271
 
 87
 358
Revolver due 2013(f) 0.5% 68
 
 
 68
Non U.S. lines of credit(g) n/a
 520
 
 
 520
Non U.S. term loans(g) n/a
 216
 
 14
 230
Other long term debt(h)   553
 
 
 553
Capitalized interest   
 (983) 
 
 (983)
Totals   
 $46,288
 $3,361
 $2,871
 $52,520


64


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

    Year Ended September 30, 2011 
    Effective
Interest Rate
  Cash Interest  Amort. Debt
Discount
  Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
  Total Interest
Expense
 
Senior notes due 2018 (a)  7.4% $21,118  $  $881  $21,999 
Revolver due 2016 (a)  n/a         332   332 
Convert. debt due 2017 (b)  9.0%  3,944   2,832   443   7,219 
Real estate mortgages (c)  5.6%  761      86   847 
ESOP Loans (d)  2.7%  345      67   412 
Capital lease - real estate (e)  5.3%  602      26   628 
Term loan due 2013 (f)  n/a   338      71   409 
Revolver due 2013 (f)  1.2%  160      79   239 
Foreign lines of credit (g)  3.0%  91         91 
Foreign term loan (g)  n/a             
Term loan due 2016 (i)  9.5%  13,405   572   838   14,815 
Asset based loan (i)  6.2%  1,076   58   341   1,475 
Other long term debt (h)      214      107   321 
Capitalized interest        (941)        (941)
Totals       $41,113  $3,462  $3,271  $47,846 



   Year Ended September 30, 2012
   
Effective
Interest Rate
 Cash Interest 
Amort. Debt
Discount
 
Amort.
Deferred Cost
& Other Fees
 
Total Interest
Expense
Senior notes due 2018(a) 7.4% $39,188
 $
 $1,623
 $40,811
Revolver due 2016(a) n/a
 881
 
 622
 1,503
Convert. debt due 2017(b) 9.2% 4,000
 3,086
 443
 7,529
Real estate mortgages(c) 4.0% 575
 
 86
 661
ESOP Loans(d) 3.0% 707
 
 6
 713
Capital lease - real estate(e) 5.3% 551
 
 25
 576
Term loan due 2013(f) 5% 831
 
 87
 918
Non U.S. lines of credit(g) n/a
 228
 
 
 228
Non U.S. term loans(g) n/a
 238
 
 11
 249
Other long term debt(h)  
 680
 
 34
 714
Capitalized interest   
 (1,895) 
 
 (1,895)
Totals   
 $45,984
 $3,086
 $2,937
 $52,007
Minimum payments under debt agreements for the next five years are as follows: $10,768 in 2014, $6,488$7,886 in 2015, $17,863$33,332 in 2016, $112,048$4,531 in 2017, $551,207$104,442 in 2018, $57,402 in 2019 and $4,127$614,978 thereafter.

(a)On March 17, 2011,February 27, 2014, in an unregistered offering through a private placement under Rule 144A, Griffon issued, at par, $550,000$600,000 of 7.125%5.25% Senior Notes due in 2018 (2022 (“Senior Notes”); interest is payable semi-annually. On August 9, 2011, Griffon exchanged allsemi-annually on March 1 and September 1, starting September 1, 2014. Proceeds from the Senior Notes were used to redeem $550,000 of 7.125% senior notes due 2018, to pay a call and tender offer premium of $31,530 and to make interest payments of $16,716, with the balance used to pay a portion of the related transaction fees and expenses. In connection with the issuance of the Senior Notes, for substantially identical Senior Notes registeredall obligations under the Securities Act$550,000 of 1933 via an exchange offer.7.125% senior notes due in 2018 were discharged.

Proceeds from the Senior Notes were used to pay down outstanding borrowings under a senior secured term loan facility and two senior secured revolving credit facilities of certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.


The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Griffon guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries, and subject to certain covenants, limitations and restrictions.

On March 28, 2013,June 18, 2014, Griffon exchanged all of the Senior Notes for substantially identical Senior Notes registered under the Securities Act of 1933 via an exchange offer. The fair value of Senior Notes approximated $570,000 on September 30, 2014 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).


In connection with these transactions, Griffon capitalized $10,313 of underwriting fees and other expenses incurred related to the issuance and exchange of the Senior Notes, which will amortize over the term of such notes. Griffon recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt on the 7.125% senior notes aggregating $38,890, comprised of the $31,530 tender offer premium, the write-off of $6,574 of remaining deferred financing fees and $786 of prepaid interest on defeased notes.
On February 14, 2014, Griffon amended and increased the amount available under its $225,000 Revolving Credit Facility ((“Credit Agreement”) from $200,000 to $225,000 and extendedextend its maturity from March 18, 20162018 to March 28, 2018 (except that if the Company’s 7-1/8 Senior Notes due 2018 are still outstanding on October 1, 2017, the Facility will mature on October 1, 2017).2019, and to amend certain financial maintenance and negative covenants to improve Griffon's financial and operating flexibility. The facility includes a letter of credit sub-facility with a limit of $60,000, a multi-currency sub-facility of $50,000 and a swingline sub-facility with a limit of $30,000. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement may be repaid and re-borrowed at any time, subject to final maturity of the facility or the occurrence of a default or event of default under the Credit Agreement. Interest is payable on borrowings at either a LIBOR or base rate benchmark rate, in each case without a floor, plus an applicable margin, which adjusts based on financial performance. The currentCurrent margins are 1.00%1.25% for base rate loans and 2.00%2.25% for LIBOR loans. The Credit Agreement has certain financial maintenance tests including a maximum total leverage ratio, a maximum senior secured leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio, as well as customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. The Credit Agreement also includes certain restrictions, such as limitationsnegative covenants place limits on the incurrence ofGriffon's ability to, among other things, incur indebtedness, andincur liens and the making ofmake restricted payments and investments. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Griffon’s material domestic subsidiaries and are secured, on a first priority basis, by substantially all domestic assets of the Company and the guarantors and a pledge of not greater than two-thirds65% of the equity interest in each of Griffon’s material, first-tier foreign subsidiaries.

subsidiaries (except that a lien on the assets of Griffon’s material domestic subsidiaries

74
65


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



securing a limited amount of the debt under the credit agreement relating to Griffon's Employee Stock Ownership Plan ranks pari passu with the lien granted on such assets under the Credit Agreement; see footnote (d) below). At September 30, 2013,2014, there were $25,457$18,929 of standby letters of credit outstanding under the Credit Agreement; $199,543Agreement and $25,000 in outstanding borrowings; $181,071 was available subject to certain covenants, for borrowing at that date.


(b)On December 21, 2009, Griffon issued $100,000 principal of 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2017 (the“2017 “2017 Notes”). The current conversion rate of the 2017 Notes is 67.849568.4571 shares of Griffon’s common stock per $1,000$1 principal amount of notes, corresponding to a conversion price of $14.74$14.61 per share. When a cash dividend is declared that would result in an adjustment to the conversion ratio of less than 1%, any adjustment to the conversion ratio is deferred until the first to occur of (i) actual conversion; (ii) the 42nd trading day prior to maturity of the notes; and (iii) such time as the cumulative adjustment equals or exceeds 1%. As of September 30, 2013,2014, aggregate dividends since the last conversion price adjustment of $0.075$0.06 per share would have resulted in an adjustment to the conversion ratio of approximately 0.66%0.52%. At both September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, the 2017 Notes had a capital in excess of par component, net of tax, of $15,720. The fair value of the 2017 Notes approximated $110,188 on September 30, 2014 based upon quoted market prices (level 1 inputs).


(c)On December 20, 2010,October 21, 2013, Griffon entered intorefinanced two second lien real estate mortgages to secure new loans totaling $11,834.$17,175. The loans mature in February 2016,October 2018, are collateralized by the related properties and are guaranteed by Griffon. The loans bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 3% with the option to swap to a fixed rate. On October 21, 2013, Griffon refinanced these real estate mortgages with total principal of $17,175, maturing in October 2018 and bearing interest at LIBOR plus 2.75%. At September 30, 2014, $16,388 was outstanding.

Griffon has other real estate mortgages, collateralized by real property, which bear interest at 6.3% and mature in 2016.

(d)Griffon’sIn December 2013, Griffon’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) entered into an agreement that refinanced the two existing ESOP loans into one new Term Loan in the amount of $21,098 (the "Agreement"). The Agreement also provided for a loan agreement in August 2010 to borrow $20,000 over a one-year period. The proceeds were usedLine Note with $10,000 available to purchase 1,874,737 shares of Griffon common stock in the open market for $19,973.market. In July 2014, Griffon's ESOP entered into an amendment of the existing Agreement which provided an additional $10,000 Line Note available to purchase shares in the open market. During 2014, the Line Notes were combined with the Term Loan to form one new Term Loan. The loanTerm Loan bears interest at a) LIBOR plus 2.5%2.38% or b) the lender’s prime rate, at Griffon’s option. In November 2011, Griffon exercised an option to convert the outstanding loan to a five-year term loan;The Term Loan requires quarterly principal is payable in quarterly installmentspayments of $250, beginning December 2011,$506, with a balloon payment of $15,223approximately $30,137 due at maturity (November 2016).on December 31, 2018. During 2014, 1,591,117 shares of Griffon common stock, for a total of $20,000, or $12.57 per share, were purchased with proceeds from the Line Notes. At September 30, 2014, $38,946 was outstanding under the Term Loan. The loanTerm Loan is secured by shares purchased with the proceeds of the loan and repaymentwith a lien on a specific amount of Griffon assets (which lien ranks pari passu with the lien granted on such assets under the Credit Agreement) and is guaranteed by Griffon. At September 30, 2013, $17,973 was outstanding.

In addition, the ESOP is party to a loan agreement which requires quarterly principal payments of $156 and interest through the extended expiration date of December 2013, at which time the $3,125 balance of the loan, and any outstanding interest, will be payable. Griffon has the intent and ability to refinance the December 2013 balance and has classified the balance in Long-Term Debt. The primary purpose of this loan was to purchase 547,605 shares of Griffon’s common stock in October 2008. The loan is secured by shares purchased with the proceeds of the loan and repayment is guaranteed by Griffon. The loan bears interest at rates based upon the prime rate or LIBOR. At September 30, 2013, $3,125 was outstanding and classified as long-term debt as the Company has the intent and ability to refinance in 2014.


(e)In October 2006, CBP entered into a capital lease totaling $14,290 for real estate in Troy, Ohio.Ohio. The lease matures in 2022, bears interest at a fixed rate of 5.0%, is secured by a mortgage on the real estate and is guaranteed by Griffon.


(f)In November 2010, Clopay Europe GMBH (“Clopay Europe”) entered into a €10,000 revolving credit facility and a €20,000 term loan. The facility accrues interest at EURIBOR plus 2.45% per annumterm loan was paid off in December 2013 and the term loan accrues interestrevolver had no borrowings outstanding at EURIBOR plus 2.20% per annum.September 30, 2014. The revolving facility matures in November 2013,2014, but is renewable upon mutual agreement with the bank. In July 2011, the full €20,000 was drawn on the term loan, with a portion of the proceeds used to repay borrowings under theThe revolving credit facility. The term loan is payable in ten equal quarterly installments which began in September 2011, with maturity in December 2013. Under the term loan,facility accrues interest at EURIBOR plus 2.20% per annum. Clopay Europe is required to maintain a certain minimum equity to assets ratio and keep leverage below a certain level, defined as the ratio of total debt to EBITDA.
75

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollarsClopay do Brasil maintains lines of credit of approximately $5,200. Interest on borrowings accrues at a rate of Brazilian CDI plus 6.0% (17.00% at September 30, 2014). At September 30, 2014 there was approximately $3,306 borrowed under the lines. Clopay Plastic Products Company, Inc. guarantees the loan and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

(g)In February 2012, Clopay do Brazil, a subsidiary of Plastics, borrowed $4,000 at a rate of 104.5% of Brazilian CDI (9.10% at September 30, 2013). The loan was used to refinance existing loans, is collateralized by accounts receivable and a 50% guaranty by Plastics and is to be repaid in four equal, semi-annual installments of principal plus accrued interest beginning in August 2012. Clopay do Brazil also maintains lines of credit of approximately $4,950. Interest on borrowings accrue at a rate of Brazilian CDI plus 6.0% (15.23% at September 30, 2013). At September 30, 2013 there was approximately $4,600 borrowed under the lines.

lines.


In November 2012, Garant G.P. (“Garant”) entered into a CAD $15,000 revolving credit facility. The facility accrues interest at LIBOR (USD) or the Bankers Acceptance Rate (CDN) plus 1.3% per annum (1.48%(1.53% LIBOR USD and 2.46%2.52% Bankers Acceptance Rate CDN as of September 30, 2013)2014). The revolving facility matures in November 2015. Garant is required to maintain a certain minimum equity. At September 30, 2013,2014, there were no borrowings under the revolving credit facility with CAD $15,000 available for borrowing

borrowing.

(g)In December 2013 and May 2014, Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd entered into two unsecured term loans in the outstanding amounts of AUD $12,500 and AUD $20,000, respectively. The AUD $12,500 term loan requires quarterly interest payments with principal due upon maturity in December 2016. The AUD $20,000 term loan requires quarterly principal payments of $625 beginning in August 2015 with a balloon payment due upon maturity in May 2017. The loans accrue interest at Bank Bill Swap Bid Rate “BBSY” plus 2.8% per annum (5.5% at September 30, 2014 for each loan). As of September 30, 2014, Griffon had an outstanding combined balance of $28,470 on the term loans.

66


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



Subsidiaries of Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd also maintain two lines of credit of AUD $3,000 and AUD $5,000 which accrue interest at BBSY plus 2.25% per annum (4.95% at September 30, 2014) and 2.50% per annum (5.20% at September 30, 2014), respectively. At September 30, 2014, there were no outstanding borrowings under the lines. Griffon Corporation guarantees the term loans and the AUD $3,000 line of credit; the assets of a subsidiary of Northcote Holdings Pty Ltd secures the AUD $5,000 line of credit.

(h)At September 30, 2012, Griffon had $532 of 4% convertible subordinated notes due 2023 (“2023 Notes”) outstanding. On April 15, 2013, the 2023 Notes were redeemed at par plus accrued interest. Other long termlong-term debt also includes capital leases.

(i)In connection with the ATT acquisition, Clopay Ames True Temper Holding Corp. (“Clopay Ames”), a subsidiary of Griffon, entered into a $375,000 secured term Loan (“Term Loan”) and a $125,000 asset based lending agreement (“ABL”).

On November 30, 2010, Clopay Ames, as required under the Term Loan agreement, entered into an interest rate swap on a notional amount of $200,000 of the Term Loan. The agreement fixed the LIBOR component of the Term Loan interest rate at 2.085% for the notional amount of the swap.

On March 17, 2011, the Term Loan and swap were terminated, and on March 18, 2011, the ABL was terminated, in connection with the issuance of the Senior Notes and Credit Agreement.


At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon and its subsidiaries were in compliance with the terms and covenants of its credit and loan agreements.

In 2011, in connection with the termination of a previously existing term loan, asset-backed credit facility and cash flow facility, Griffon recorded a $26,164 loss on extinguishment of debt consisting of $21,617 of deferred financing charges and original issuer discounts, a call premium of $3,703 on the term loan, and $844 of swap and other breakage costs.


NOTE 11 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Griffon offers defined contribution plans to most of its U.S. employees. In addition to employee contributions to the plans, Griffon makes contributions based upon various percentages of compensation and/or employee contributions, which were $8,207 in 2014, $6,950 in 2013 and $7,300 in 2012 and $7,500 in 2011.

76
2012.

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

The Company also provides healthcare and life insurance benefits for certain groups of retirees through several plans. For certain employees, the benefits are at fixed amounts per retiree and are partially contributory by the retiree. The post-retirement benefit obligation was $1,972$1,990 and $2,262$1,972 as of September 30, 20132014 and 2012.2013. The accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for these plans was $161$(38) and ($79)$161 as of September 30, for2014 and 2013, and 2012, respectively, and the 20132014 and 20122013 benefit expense was $65$59 and $76,$65, respectively. It is the Company’s practice to fund these benefits as incurred.

Griffon also has qualified and non-qualified defined benefit plans covering certain employees with benefits based on years of service and employee compensation. Over time, these amounts will be recognized as part of net periodic pension costs in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Griffon is responsible for overseeing the management of the investments of the qualified defined benefit plan and uses the service of an investment manager to manage these assets based on agreed upon risk profiles set by Griffon management.profiles. The primary objective of the qualified defined benefit plan is to secure participant retirement benefits. As such, the key objective in this plan’s financial management is to promote stability and, to the extent appropriate, growth in the funded status. Financial objectives are established in conjunction with a review of current and projected plan financial requirements. The fair valuevalues of a majority of the plan assets were determined by the plans’ trustee using quoted market prices for identical instruments (level 1 inputs) as of September 30, 20132014 and 2012.2013. The fair value of various other investments werewas determined by the plan’s trustee using direct observable market corroborated inputs, including quoted market prices for similar assets (level 2 inputs). The fair value of investments with significant unobservable inputs was supported by audited financial statements (levelThere were no pension assets measured using level 3 inputs).

inputs.


Effective January 1, 2012, the Clopay Pension Plan merged with the Ames True Temper Inc. Pension Plan. The merged qualified defined benefit plan was named the Clopay Ames True Temper Pension Plan (the “CATT“Clopay AMES Plan”).


The Clopay portion of the CATTClopay AMES Plan has been frozen to new entrants since December 2000. Certain employees who were part of the plan prior to December 2000 continued to accrue a service benefit through December 2010, at which time all plan participants stopped accruing service benefits.


The ATTAMES portion of the CATTClopay AMES Plan has been frozen to all new entrants since November 2009 and stopped accruing benefits in December 2009.


The ATTAMES supplemental executive retirement plan was frozen to new entrants and participants in the plan stopped accruing benefits in 2008.


In 2014, the company contributed €1,300 (U.S. $1,776), which equaled the net balance sheet liability, in settlement of all remaining obligations for a non-U.S. pension liability. There were no gains or losses recorded for this settlement.


67


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


In 2013, SG&A expenses included a $2,142 non-cash, pension settlement loss resulting from the lump-sum buyout of certain participant’s balances in the Company’s defined benefit plan. The buyouts, funded by the pension plan, reduced the Company’s net pension liability at September 30, 2013 by $3,472 and increased Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) by $3,649.

$3,649 at that date.


Griffon uses judgment to estimateestablish the assumptions used in determining the future liability of the plan, as well as the investment returns on the assets invested for the plan.plan assets. The expected return on assets assumption used for pension expense was developed through analysis of historical market returns, current market conditions and the past experience of plan asset investments. The long-term rate of return assumption represents the expected average rate of earnings on the funds invested, or to be invested, to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligations. The assumption is based on several factors including historical market index returns, the anticipated long-term asset allocation of plan assets and the historical return. The discount rate assumption is determined by developing a yield curve based on high quality bonds with maturities matching the plans’ expected benefit payment stream. The plans’ expected cash flows are then discounted by the resulting year-by-year spot rates. A 10% change in the discount rate, average wage increase or return on assets would not have a material effect on the financial statements of Griffon.

77

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Net periodic costs (benefits) were as follows:

  Defined Benefits for the Years Ended 
September 30,
  Supplemental Benefits for the Years 
Ended September 30,
 
  2013  2012  2011  2013  2012  2011 
Net periodic (benefits) costs:                        
Service cost $165  $238  $377  $35  $36  $34 
Interest cost  7,977   9,191   9,552   1,344   1,692   1,759 
Expected return on plan assets  (11,870)  (11,896)  (11,501)         
Recognition of settlement  2,143                
                         
Amortization of:                        
Prior service costs  6   6   8   14   171   328 
Actuarial loss  1,795   1,735   1,144   1,288   1,137   1,141 
Total net periodic (benefits) costs $216  $(726) $(420) $2,681  $3,036  $3,262 

 
Defined Benefits for the Years Ended 
September 30,
 
Supplemental Benefits for the Years 
Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2014 2013 2012
Net periodic (benefits) costs: 
  
  
  
  
  
Service cost$22
 $165
 $238
 $
 $35
 $36
Interest cost8,205
 7,977
 9,191
 1,497
 1,344
 1,692
Expected return on plan assets(11,309) (11,869) (11,896) 
 
 
Recognition of settlement
 2,142
 
 
 
 
Amortization of: 
  
  
  
  
  
Prior service costs1
 6
 6
 14
 14
 171
Actuarial loss885
 1,795
 1,735
 1,034
 1,288
 1,137
Total net periodic (benefits) costs$(2,196) $216
 $(726)��$2,545
 $2,681
 $3,036
The tax benefits in 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012 for the amortization of pension costs in Other comprehensive income (loss) were $677, $1,086 and $1,067, and $917, respectively.

The estimated net actuarial loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive incomeAOCI into Net periodic pension cost during 20142015 are $1,954$2,165 and $15,$17, respectively.

The weighted-average assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefits) costs were as follows:

  Defined Benefits for the Years Ended 
September 30,
  Supplemental Benefits for the Years 
Ended September 30,
 
  2013  2012  2011  2013  2012  2011 
Discount rate  3.67%  4.44%  4.89%  3.40%  4.30%  4.26%
Average wage increase  0.11%  0.11%  0.72%  4.87%  4.89%  4.89%
Expected return on assets  7.80%  7.71%  7.72%         
78

 
Defined Benefits for the Years Ended 
September 30,
 
Supplemental Benefits for the Years 
Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012 2014 2013 2012
Discount rate4.49% 3.67% 4.44% 4.09% 3.40% 4.30%
Average wage increase0.15% 0.11% 0.11% % 4.87% 4.89%
Expected return on assets8.00% 7.80% 7.71% 
 
 


68


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



Plan assets and benefit obligation of the defined and supplemental benefit plans were as follows:

  Defined Benefits at
September 30,
  Supplemental Benefits at
September 30,
 
  2013  2012  2013  2012 
Change in benefit obligation:                
Benefit obligation at beginning of fiscal year $232,939  $212,660  $41,473  $41,285 
Benefits earned during the year  165   238   35   36 
Interest cost  7,977   9,191   1,344   1,692 
Plan participant contributions  15   16       
Benefits paid  (10,632)  (10,369)  (4,051)  (3,936)
Benefits paid - settlement  (11,548)         
Effect of foreign currency  462   (413)      
Actuarial (gain) loss  (19,945)  21,616   (127)  2,396 
Actuarial gain - settlement  (3,472)         
Benefit obligation at end of fiscal year  195,961   232,939   38,674   41,473 
                 
Change in plan assets:                
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of fiscal year  160,823   137,678       
Actual return on plan assets  12,537   25,190       
Plan participant contributions  15   16       
Company contributions  2,203   8,638   4,051   3,936 
Effect of foreign currency  333   (330)      
Benefits paid  (10,632)  (10,369)  (4,051)  (3,936)
Benefits paid - settlement  (11,548)         
Fair value of plan assets at end of fiscal year  153,731   160,823       
Projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets $(42,230) $(72,116) $(38,674) $(41,473)
                 
Amounts recognized in the statement of financial position consist of:                
Accrued liabilities $  $  $(4,031) $(3,897)
Other liabilities (long-term)  (42,230)  (72,116)  (34,643)  (37,576)
Total Liabilities  (42,230)  (72,116)  (38,674)  (41,473)
                 
Net actuarial losses  16,679   44,656   19,335   20,750 
Prior service cost  4   10   99   113 
Deferred taxes  (5,839)  (15,633)  (6,802)  (7,302)
Total Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax  10,844   29,033   12,632   13,561 
Net amount recognized at September 30, $(31,386) $(43,083) $(26,042) $(27,912)
                 
Accumulated benefit obligations $195,590  $232,574  $38,674  $41,473 
                 
Information for plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:                
ABO $195,590  $232,574  $38,674  $41,473 
PBO  195,961   232,939   38,674   41,473 
Fair value of plan assets  153,731   160,823       

79

 
Defined Benefits at
September 30,
 
Supplemental Benefits at
September 30,
 2014 2013 2014 2013
Change in benefit obligation: 
  
  
  
Benefit obligation at beginning of fiscal year$195,961
 $232,939
 $38,674
 $41,473
Benefits earned during the year22
 165
 
 35
Interest cost8,205
 7,977
 1,497
 1,344
Plan participant contributions3
 15
 
 
Benefits paid(10,359) (10,632) (4,083) (4,051)
Benefits paid - settlement
 (11,548) 
 
Plan settlement(9,780) 
 
 
Effect of foreign currency37
 462
 
 
Actuarial (gain) loss10,238
 (19,945) 2,119
 (127)
Actuarial gain - settlement
 (3,472) 
 
Benefit obligation at end of fiscal year194,327
 195,961
 38,207
 38,674
Change in plan assets: 
  
  
  
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of fiscal year153,731
 160,823
 
 
Actual return on plan assets12,830
 12,537
 
 
Plan participant contributions3
 15
 
 
Company contributions7,433
 2,203
 4,083
 4,051
Effect of foreign currency26
 333
 
 
Benefits paid(10,359) (10,632) (4,083) (4,051)
Benefits paid - settlement
 (11,548) 
 
Plan settlement(8,698) 
    
Fair value of plan assets at end of fiscal year154,966
 153,731
 
 
Projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets$(39,361) $(42,230) $(38,207) $(38,674)
Amounts recognized in the statement of financial position consist of: 
  
  
  
Accrued liabilities$
 $
 $(4,058) $(4,031)
Other liabilities (long-term)(39,361) (42,230) (34,149) (34,643)
Total Liabilities(39,361) (42,230) (38,207) (38,674)
Net actuarial losses23,433
 16,679
 20,420
 19,335
Prior service cost2
 4
 85
 99
Deferred taxes(8,202) (5,839) (7,177) (6,802)
Total Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax15,233
 10,844
 13,328
 12,632
Net amount recognized at September 30,$(24,128) $(31,386) $(24,879) $(26,042)
Accumulated benefit obligations$194,327
 $195,590
 $38,207
 $38,674
Information for plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets: 
  
  
  
ABO$194,327
 $195,590
 $38,207
 $38,674
PBO194,327
 195,961
 38,207
 38,674
Fair value of plan assets154,966
 153,731
 
 

69


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



The weighted-average assumptions used in determining the benefit obligations were as follows:

  Defined Benefits at 
September 30,
  Supplemental Benefits at 
September 30,
 
  2013  2012  2013  2012 
Weighted average discount rate  4.49%  3.67%  4.09%  3.40%
Weighted average wage increase  0.15%  0.11%  0.00%  4.87%

 
Defined Benefits at 
September 30,
 
Supplemental Benefits at 
September 30,
 2014 2013 2014 2013
Weighted average discount rate3.98% 4.49% 3.60% 4.09%
Weighted average wage increase% 0.15% % %
The actual and weighted-average asset allocation for qualified benefit plans were as follows:

  At September 30,    
  2013  2012  Target 
Equity securities  55.8%  66.0%  63.0%
Fixed income  41.3%  29.0%  37.0%
Other  2.9%  5.0%  0.0%
Total  100.0%  100.0%  100.0%

 At September 30,  
 2014 2013 Target
Equity securities56.4% 55.8% 63.0%
Fixed income38.1% 41.3% 37.0%
Other5.5% 2.9% %
Total100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Estimated future benefit payments to retirees, which reflect expected future service, are as follows:

For the fiscal years ending September 30,  Defined
Benefits
  Supplemental Benefits 
 2014  $10,794  $4,085 
 2015   10,866   4,010 
 2016   11,049   3,954 
 2017   11,192   3,895 
 2018   11,322   3,453 
 2019 through 2023   59,464   14,632 

For the years ending September 30,
Defined
Benefits
 Supplemental Benefits
2015$10,551
 $4,058
201610,734
 4,000
201710,830
 3,939
201810,964
 3,564
201911,115
 3,391
2020 through 202458,177
 13,137

Griffon expects to contribute $6,942$3,784 to the Defined Benefit plans in 2014,2015, in addition to the $4,085$4,058 in payments related to the Supplemental Benefits that will primarily be funded from the general assets of Griffon.


The CATTClopay AMES Plan is covered by the Pension Protection Act of 2006. The Adjusted Funding Target Attainment Percent for the plan as of January 1, 20132014 was 89.8%96.7%. Since the plan was in excess of the 80% funding threshold there were no plan restrictions. The expected level of 20142015 catch up contributions is $4,028.

$4,228.


The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for plan assets measured at fair value:


Short-term investment funds – The fair value is determined using the Net Asset Value (“NAV”) provided by the administrator of the fund. The NAV is based on the value of the underlying assets owned by the fund, minus its liabilities, and then divided by the number of shares outstanding. The NAV is a quoted price in a market that is not active and is primarily classified as Level 2. These investments can be liquidated on demand.

80

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Government and agency securities – When quoted market prices are available in an active market, the investments are classified as Level 1. When quoted market prices are not available in an active market, the investments are classified as Level 2.


Equity securities – The fair values reflect the closing price reported on a major market where the individual mutual fund securities are traded.traded in equity securities. These investments are classified within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.


Debt securities – The fair values are based on a compilation of primarily observable market information or a broker quote in a non-active market.market where the individual mutual fund securities are invested in debt securities. These investments are primarily classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.



70


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Commingled funds – The fair values are determined using NAV provided by the administrator of the fund. The NAV is based on the value of the underlying assets owned by the trust/entity, minus its liabilities, and then divided by the number of shares outstanding. These investments are generally classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy and can be liquidated on demand.


Interest in limited partnerships and hedge funds - One limited partnership investment is a private equity fund and the fair value is determined by the fund managers based on the estimated value of the various holdings of the fund portfolio. One of the commingled mutual funds is based on the value of the underlying assets owned by the fund, minus its liabilities, and then divided by the number of shares outstanding; these asset values are estimated by underlying managers of the assets in which the fund invests. These investments are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.


The following table presents the fair values of Griffon’s pension and post-retirement plan assets by asset category:

At September 30, 2013 Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
  Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
  Total 
Cash and equivalents $  $  $  $ 
Short-term investment funds     2,949      2,949 
Government agency securities  3,006         3,006 
Debt instruments  30,856         30,856 
Equity securities  47,690         47,690 
Commingled funds     66,130      66,130 
Limited partnerships and hedge fund investments     3,101      3,101 
Total $81,552  $72,180  $  $153,732 

The activity for the level 3 assets was as follows:

Beginning Balance At September 30, 2012 $3,016 
Transfers out of Level 3  (3,016)
Ending Balance At September 30, 2013 $ 

Transfers were due to the availability of observable inputs in the current year.

81

GRIFFON CORPORATION

At September 30, 2014
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
Cash and equivalents$2,912
 $
 $
 $2,912
Short-term investment funds
 
 
 
Government agency securities
 
 
 
Debt instruments29,447
 
 
 29,447
Equity securities45,870
 
 
 45,870
Commingled funds
 72,722
 
 72,722
Limited partnerships and hedge fund investments
 4,015
 
 4,015
Total$78,229
 $76,737
 $
 $154,966
At September 30, 2013
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
Cash and equivalents$
 $
 $
 $
Short-term investment funds
 2,948
 
 2,948
Government agency securities3,006
 
 
 3,006
Debt instruments30,856
 
 
 30,856
Equity securities47,690
 
 
 47,690
Commingled funds
 66,130
 
 66,130
Insurance contracts
 
 
 
Limited partnerships and hedge fund investments
 3,101
 
 3,101
Total$81,552
 $72,179
 $
 $153,731

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

At September 30, 2012 Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)
  Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
  Total 
Cash and equivalents $29  $  $  $29 
Short-term investment funds     5,231      5,231 
Government agency securities     2,899      2,899 
Debt instruments     30,616      30,616 
Equity securities  62,713         62,713 
Commingled funds     56,329      56,329 
Insurance contracts            
Limited partnerships and hedge fund investments        3,016   3,016 
Total $62,742  $95,075  $3,016  $160,833 

Griffon has an ESOP that covers substantially all domestic employees. All U.S. employees of Griffon, who are not members of a collective bargaining unit, automatically become eligible to participate in the plan on the October 1st following completion of one year of service. Griffon’s securitiesSecurities are allocated to participants’ individual accounts based on the proportion of each participant’s aggregate compensation (not to exceed $255$260 for the plan year ended September 30, 2013)2014), to the total of all participants’ compensation. Shares of the ESOP which have been allocated to employee accounts are charged to expense based on the fair value of the shares transferred and are treated as outstanding in determining earnings per share. Dividends paid on shares held by the ESOP are used to offset debt service on ESOP Loans. Dividends paid on shares held in participant accounts are utilized to allocate shares from the aggregate number of shares to be released, equal in value to those dividends, based on the closing price of Griffon common stock on the dividend payment date. Compensation expense under the ESOP was $2,447 in 2014, $2,015 in 2013 and $1,796 in 2012 and $841 in 2011.2012. The cost of the shares held by the ESOP and not yet allocated to employees is reported as a reduction of Shareholders’ Equity. The fair value of the unallocated ESOP shares as of September 30, 20132014 and 20122013 based on the closing stock price of Griffon’s stock was $24,257$37,372 and $21,993,$24,257, respectively. The ESOP shares were as follows:

  At September 30, 
  2013  2012 
Allocated shares  2,309,812   2,335,040 
Unallocated shares  1,934,338   2,135,287 
   4,244,150   4,470,327 


71


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



 At September 30,
 2014 2013
Allocated shares2,406,941
 2,309,812
Unallocated shares3,281,095
 1,934,338
 5,688,036
 4,244,150
NOTE 12 – INCOME TAXES


Income taxes have been based on the following components of Income before taxes and discontinued operations:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
          
Domestic $16,083  $27,910  $(17,869)
Non-U.S.  (1,750)  (5,969)  3,520 
  $14,333  $21,941  $(14,349)
82

GRIFFON CORPORATION

 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Domestic$(14,682) $16,083
 $27,910
Non-U.S.8,966
 (1,750) (5,969)
 $(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Provision (benefit) for income taxes on income from continuing operations was comprised of the following:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Current $2,468  $7,557  $(4,169)
Deferred  5,075   (2,627)  (2,749)
Total $7,543  $4,930  $(6,918)
             
U.S. Federal $5,807  $3,400  $(8,988)
State and local  2,915   (1,301)  91 
Non-U.S.  (1,179)  2,831   1,979 
Total provision $7,543  $4,930  $(6,918)

 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Current$(408) $2,468
 $7,557
Deferred(5,131) 5,075
 (2,627)
Total$(5,539) $7,543
 $4,930
U.S. Federal$(6,486) $5,807
 $3,400
State and local(291) 2,915
 (1,301)
Non-U.S.1,238
 (1,179) 2,831
Total provision$(5,539) $7,543
 $4,930

Griffon’s Income tax provision (benefit) included benefits of ($4,429) in 2014, ($3,209) in 2013, and ($3,356) in 2012 and ($733) in 2011 reflecting the reversal of previously recorded tax liabilities primarily due to the resolution of various tax audits and due to the closing of certain statutes for prior years’ tax returns.


Differences between the effective income tax rate applied to Income from continuing operations and U.S. Federal income statutory rate were as follows:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
          
U.S. Federal income tax provision (benefit) rate  35.0%  35.0%  (35.0)%
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit  2.8   3.6   (1.9)
Non-U.S. taxes  5.3   7.0   5.3 
Change in tax contingency reserves  (10.9)  (6.7)  2.2 
Executive compensation limits  10.0   7.1   13.1 
Repatriation of foreign earnings  (8.3)  (12.3)   
Valuation allowance on foreign tax credits  10.1   (2.4)  (27.2)
Non-deductible meals and entertainment  1.6   1.2   2.0 
Research credits  (7.4)  (0.7)  (5.4)
Deferred tax impact of state rate change  15.0   (11.0)   
Other  (0.6)  1.6   (1.3)
Effective tax provision (benefit) rate  52.6%  22.5%  (48.2)%


 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
U.S. Federal income tax provision (benefit) rate(35.0)% 35.0 % 35.0 %
State and local taxes, net of Federal benefit17.5 % 2.8 % 3.6 %
Non-U.S. taxes(35.8)% 5.3 % 7.0 %
Change in tax contingency reserves(36.0)% (10.9)% (6.7)%
Repatriation of foreign earnings4.7 % (8.3)% (12.3)%
U.S. Valuation allowance4.5 % 10.1 % (2.4)%
Non-deductible/non-taxable items, net(3.4)% 11.6 % 8.4 %
Research credits(3.9)% (7.4)% (0.7)%
Deferred tax impact of state rate change(4.5)% 15.0 % (11.0)%
Other(5.0)% (0.6)% 1.6 %
Effective tax provision (benefit) rate(96.9)% 52.6 % 22.5 %

72


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



The tax effect of temporary differences that give rise to future deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

83

GRIFFON CORPORATION

 At September 30,
 2014 2013
Deferred tax assets: 
  
Bad debt reserves$2,639
 $2,202
Inventory reserves7,578
 9,295
Deferred compensation (equity compensation and defined benefit plans)35,683
 32,645
Compensation benefits4,662
 3,059
Insurance reserve3,336
 3,360
Restructuring reserve911
 699
Warranty reserve2,286
 3,320
Net operating loss32,512
 26,644
Tax credits6,378
 7,311
Other reserves and accruals4,164
 2,924
 100,149
 91,459
Valuation allowance(15,649) (13,421)
Total deferred tax assets84,500
 78,038
Deferred tax liabilities: 
  
Deferred income(11,091) (13,124)
Goodwill and intangibles(72,086) (70,216)
Property, plant and equipment(34,302) (36,469)
Interest(3,582) (5,154)
Other(927) (5,164)
Total deferred tax liabilities(121,988) (130,127)
Net deferred tax liabilities$(37,488) $(52,089)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

  At September 30, 
  2013  2012 
       
Deferred tax assets:        
Bad debt reserves $2,202  $2,071 
Inventory reserves  9,295   12,589 
Deferred compensation (equity compensation and defined benefit plans)  32,645   42,773 
Compensation benefits  3,059   2,706 
Insurance reserve  3,360   3,924 
Restructuring reserve  699   489 
Warranty reserve  3,320   3,587 
Net operating loss  26,644   25,708 
Tax credits  7,311   5,622 
Other reserves and accruals  2,924   651 
   91,459   100,120 
Valuation allowance  (13,421)  (10,541)
Total deferred tax assets  78,038   89,579 
         
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Deferred income  (13,124)  (14,051)
Goodwill and intangibles  (70,216)  (70,463)
Property, plant and equipment  (36,469)  (33,673)
Interest  (5,154)  (6,542)
Other  (5,164)  (1,323)
Total deferred tax liabilities  (130,127)  (126,052)
Net deferred tax liabilities $(52,089) $(36,473)

The change in the valuation allowance relates to the U.S., foreign tax credits and the valuation allowance for certain state, local and foreign tax attributes.

84

GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

The components of the net deferred tax liability, by balance sheet account, were as follows:

  At September 30, 
  2013  2012 
       
Prepaid and other current assets $9,118  $16,059 
Other assets  3,205   2,956 
Current liabilities     (129)
Other liabilities  (66,422)  (55,882)
Assets of discontinued operations  2,010   523 
Net deferred liability assets $(52,089) $(36,473)


 At September 30,
 2014 2013
Prepaid and other current assets$13,982
 $9,118
Other assets872
 3,205
Current liabilities(2) 
Other liabilities(53,798) (66,422)
Assets of discontinued operations1,458
 2,010
Net deferred liability$(37,488) $(52,089)

At both September 30, 20132014 and at September 30, 2012,2013, Griffon has not recorded deferred income taxes on the undistributed earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries because of management’s ability and intent to indefinitely reinvest such earnings outside the U.S. At September 30, 2013,2014, Griffon’s share of the undistributed earnings of the non-U.S. subsidiaries amounted to approximately $74,923.$90,716. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of deferred tax liability related to investments in these foreign subsidiaries.


At September 30, 2011 deferred income taxes were recorded on pre-acquisition undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries for the ATT group of entities. The deferred income taxes were recorded as these earnings were historically not indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S. At September 30, 2012 the pre-acquisition unremitted foreign earnings of ATT group were distributed as a dividend to the U.S. Parent Corp. recognizing the previously recorded deferred tax liability.

At September 30,2014 and 2013, and 2012, Griffon had loss carryforwards for non-U.S. tax purposes of $83,564$78,692 and $75,400,$83,564, respectively. The non-U.S. loss carryforwards are available for carryforward indefinitely.



73


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


At September 30, 2014 and 2013, Griffon had Statestate and local loss carryforwards at September 30, 2013of $7,905 and 2012 of $6,057, and $6,303, respectively, which expire in varying amounts through 2033.

2034.


At September 30, 2014, Griffon had foreignfederal loss carryforwards of $11,036, which are available for carryforward through 2034. At September 30, 2013, Griffon had no federal loss carryforwards.

At September 30, 2014 and 2013, Griffon had federal tax credit carryforwards of $5,151$6,087 and $3,361 at September 30, 2013 and 2012,$5,151, respectively, which are available for use throughexpire beginning in 2017.


Griffon files U.S. Federal, state and local tax returns, as well as applicable returns in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Sweden, Mexico, Ireland and other non-U.S. jurisdiction tax returns.jurisdictions. Griffon’s U.S. Federal income tax returns are no longer subject to income tax examination for years before 2008,2010, the German income tax returns are no longer subject to income tax examination for years through 2010 and major U.S. state and other non-U.S. jurisdictions are no longer subject to income tax examinations for years before 2003.2004. Various U.S. state and non-U.S. statutory tax audits are currently underway.

85

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

The following is a roll forward of the unrecognized tax benefits:

Balance at September 30, 2011 $12,910 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year  1,840 
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years  (822)
Lapse of Statutes  (617)
Settlements  (1,435)
Balance at September 30, 2012  11,876 
     
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year  1,343 
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years  111 
Lapse of Statutes  (974)
Settlements  (1,836)
Balance at September 30, 2013 $10,520 

Balance at September 30, 2012$11,876
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year1,343
Additions based on tax positions related to prior years111
Lapse of Statutes(974)
Settlements(1,836)
Balance at September 30, 201310,520
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year848
Additions based on tax positions related to prior years531
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years(2,549)
Lapse of Statutes(1,204)
Settlements(240)
Balance at September 30, 2014$7,906

If recognized, the amount of potential tax benefits that would impact Griffon’sGriffon’s effective tax rate is $7,248.$4,634. Griffon recognizes potential accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. At September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, the combined amount of accrued interest and penalties related to tax positions taken or to be taken on Griffon’s tax returns and recorded as part of the reserves for uncertain tax positions was $754 and $1,672, and $2,141, respectively.Griffon cannot reasonably estimate the extent to which existing liabilities for uncertain tax positions may increase or decrease within the next twelve months as a result of the progression of ongoing tax audits or other events. Griffon believes that it has adequately provided for all open tax years by tax jurisdiction.


NOTE 13 – STOCKHOLDERSSTOCKHOLDERS’EQUITY AND EQUITY COMPENSATION

No cash dividends on Common Stock were declared or paid during the three years ended September 30, 2011.


On November 17, 2011, the Company began declaring quarterly dividends. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company declared and paid dividends totaling $0.12 per share, $0.10 per share and $0.08 per share, respectively. The Company currently intends to pay dividends each quarter; however, the payment of dividends is determined by the Board of Directors at its discretion based on various factors, and no assurance can be provided as to the payment of future dividends.

Compensation expense for restricted stock is recognized ratably over the required service period based on the fair value of the grant, calculated as the number of shares granted multiplied by the stock price on date of grant, and for performance shares, the likelihood of achieving the performance criteria.Compensation cost related to stock-based awards with graded vesting is recognized using the straight-line attribution method.


In February 2011, shareholders approved the Griffon Corporation 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (“Incentive Plan”) under which awards of performance shares, performance units, stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, deferred shares and other stock-based awards may be granted. On January 30, 2014, shareholders approved an amendment and restatement of the Incentive Plan (as amended, the “Incentive Plan”), which, among other things, added 1,200,000 shares to the Incentive Plan. Options granted under the Incentive Plan may be either “incentive stock options” or nonqualified stock options, generally expire ten years after the date of grant and are granted at an exercise price of not less than 100% of the fair market value at the date of grant. The maximum number of shares of common stock available for award under the Incentive Plan is 3,000,0004,200,000 (600,000 of which may be issued as incentive stock options) plus any shares underlying awards outstanding on the effective date of the Incentive

74


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Plan under the 2006 Incentive Plan that are subsequently cancelled or forfeited. As of September 30, 2013, 672,3322014, 984,297 shares were available for grant.

86

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Incentive Plan that are subsequently cancelled or forfeited. As of September 30, 2013, 672,332 shares were available for grant.

All grants outstanding under the Griffon Corporation 2001 Stock Option Plan, 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and Outside Director Stock Award Plan will continue under their terms; no additional awards will be granted under such plans.


Compensation expense for restricted stock is recognized ratably over the required service period based on the fair value of the grant, calculated as the number of shares granted multiplied by the stock price on date of grant, and for performance shares, the likelihood of achieving the performance criteria. Compensation cost related to stock-based awards with graded vesting, generally over a period of three to four years, is recognized using the straight-line attribution method and recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses. The following table summarizes the Company’s compensation expense relating to all stock-based incentive plans:
 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Pre-tax compensation expense$11,473
 $12,495
 $10,439
Tax benefit(3,224) (3,068) (2,547)
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax$8,249
 $9,427
 $7,892

All stock options were fully vested at September 30, 2012. A summary of stock option activity for the yearsyear ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 20112014 is as follows:

  Options 
  Shares  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
  Aggregated
Intrinsic
Value
  Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term (Years)
 
                 
Outstanding at September 30, 2010  1,544,221  $15.42         
Granted               
Exercised  (333,125)  7.74   1,848     
Forfeited/expired  (41,435)  18.34         
Outstanding at September 30, 2011  1,169,661   17.50   1,667   3.7 
Exercisable at September 30, 2011  1,169,661   17.50   1,667   3.7 
                 
Outstanding at September 30, 2011  1,169,661   17.50         
Granted               
Exercised               
Forfeited/expired  (239,900)  12.74         
Outstanding at September 30, 2012  929,761   18.73      3.4 
Exercisable at September 30, 2012  929,761   18.73   1,667   3.4 
                 
Outstanding at September 30, 2012  929,761   18.73         
Granted               
Exercised               
Forfeited/Expired  (215,526)  14.01         
Outstanding at September 30, 2013  714,235   20.15      3.2 
                 
Exercisable at September 30, 2013 through:                
September 30, 2014  130,750   19.84       0.6 
September 30, 2015  149,035   18.60       1.6 
September 30, 2016  71,450   25.65       2.6 
September 30, 2017  13,000   14.78       3.8 
September 30, 2018               
September 30, 2019  350,000   20.00       5.0 
Total Exercisable  714,235  $20.15       3.2 
87

 Options
 Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term (Years)
 Aggregated
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding and Exercisable at September 30, 2013714,235
 20.15
    
Forfeited/Expired(131,750) 19.80
    
Outstanding and Exercisable at September 30, 2014582,485
 20.23
 2.8 $

 Options Outstanding & Exercisable
Range of
Exercises Prices
Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term (Years)
$14.7812,000
 $14.78
 2.8
$17.23111,035
 17.23
 0.6
19.49 to $22.41393,000
 20.25
 3.7
$26.0666,450
 26.06
 1.5
Totals582,485
  
  


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GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

   Options Outstanding & Exercisable 
Range of
Exercises Prices
  Shares  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
  Aggregated
Intrinsic
Value
  Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term (Years)
 
                   
$14.78   14,000  $14.78  $   3.6 
$17.23   133,535   17.23      1.5 
$19.49 to $22.41   496,000   20.24      3.8 
$26.06   70,700   26.06      2.4 
 Totals   714,235      $     

All stock options were fully vested at September 30, 2011. The fair value of options vested during the year ended September 30, 2011 was $270.



A summary of restricted stock activity, inclusive of restricted stock units, for the yearsyear ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 20112014, is as follows:

  Shares  Weighted Average
Grant Price
  Aggregated Intrinsic
Value*
  Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term (Years)
 
                 
Outstanding at September 30, 2010  2,231,524  $9.71  $6,281   2.5 
Granted  1,415,700   12.68   17,946     
Fully Vested  (407,268)  10.67   5,209     
Forfeited  (130,009)  11.75   1,527     
Outstanding at September 30, 2011  3,109,947   10.85   493   2.8 
Granted  439,500   9.33   4,101     
Fully Vested  (41,045)  11.35   428     
Forfeited  (65,400)  11.13   728     
Outstanding at September 30, 2012  3,443,002   10.38   2,828   1.5 
Granted  1,225,285   11.03   13,517     
Fully Vested  (1,146,493)  8.42   13,270     
Forfeited  (93,126)  10.35   978     
Outstanding at September 30, 2013  3,428,668   11.27   4,827   1.6 

*Aggregated intrinsic

 Shares 
Weighted Average
Grant- Date Fair Value
Unvested at September 30, 20133,428,668
 11.27
Granted1,123,416
 12.96
Vested(1,111,385) 11.79
Forfeited(233,381) 22.94
Unvested at September 30, 20143,207,318
 11.63

The fair value at the date the shares were outstanding, granted, vested or forfeited, as applicable.

During 2013, Griffon granted 1,225,285of restricted stock awards with vesting periods up to four years, 1,146,892 of which are also subject to certain performance conditions. Duringvested during the year ended September 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012 Griffon granted 439,500 restricted stock awards with vesting periods of three years, 268,000 of which are also subject to certain performance conditions.

was $14,058, $13,270 and $428, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value during the year ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $12.96, $11.03, and $9.33, respectively.


Unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested shares of restricted stock was $15,275$15,945 at September 30, 20132014 and will be recognized over a weighted average vesting period of 1.41.6 years.

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GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

At September 30, 2013,2014, a total of approximately 4,815,2354,774,100 shares of Griffon’s authorized Common Stock were reserved for issuance in connection with stock compensation plans.

For the years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, stock based compensation expense totaled $12,495, $10,439 and $8,956, respectively. Tax benefits related to stock based compensation expense were $3,068, $2,547 and $2,598 for the years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.


In each of August 2011 Griffon’sand May 2014, Griffon’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of Griffon’s outstanding common stock; this was in addition to the 1,366,000 shares of common stock authorized for repurchase under an existing buyback program.stock. Under theboth repurchase programs, the Company may from time to time, purchase shares of its common stock, depending upon market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, including pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan. During 2011, Griffon purchased 1,531,379 shares of common stock, for a total of $12,367, or $8.08 per share, exhausting the shares under the original program; $48,690 remained under the $50,000 authorization.Share repurchases are recorded at cost. During 2012, Griffon purchased 1,187,066 shares of common stock under the planAugust 2011 program, for a total of $10,379, or $8.74 per share; $38,312 remained under the $50,000 authorization.share. During 2013, Griffon purchased 2,369,786 shares of common stock under the planAugust 2011 program for a total of $26,285, or $11.09 per share; asshare. During 2014, Griffon purchased 1,906,631 shares of common stock under both repurchase programs, for a total of $23,167 or $12.15 per share. Since August 2011, Griffon has repurchased 6,994,862 shares of common stock, for a total of $72,197 or $10.32 per share under Board authorized share repurchase programs (which repurchases included exhausting the remaining availability under a Board authorized repurchase program that was in existence prior to 2011). At September 30, 2013, $12,027 remained2014, the August 2011 Board authorized repurchase plan was completed and $38,860 remains under the $50,000 authorization. Share repurchases are recorded at cost.

Griffon's May 2014 Board authorized program.


In addition to the repurchases under the $50,000 program,Board authorized programs, during 2013, 536,1832014, 466,131 shares, with a market value of $6,236,$5,887, or $11.63$12.63 per share, were withheld to settle employee taxes due upon the vesting of restricted stock.


On December 10, 2013, Griffon repurchased 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct, L.L.C. (“GS Direct”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. The repurchase was effected in a private transaction at a per share price of $11.25, an approximate 9.2% discount to the stock’s closing price on November 12, 2013, the day before announcement of the transaction. The transaction was exclusive of the Company´s August 2011, $50,000 authorized share repurchase program. After closing the transaction, GS Direct continued to hold approximately 5.56 million shares (approximately 10% of the shares outstanding at such time) of Griffon’s common stock. Subject to certain exceptions, if GS Direct intends to sell its remaining shares of Griffon common stock at any time prior to December 31, 2015, it will first negotiate in good faith to sell such shares to the Company.

During 2014, Griffon’s Board of Directors authorized the ESOP to purchase up to $20,000 of Griffon’s outstanding common stock, depending upon market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions, including pursuant to a 10b5-1 plan. During 2014, the ESOP purchased 1,591,117 shares of common stock, for a total of $20,000 or $12.57 per share.

In connection with the Northcote acquisition, Griffon entered into certain retention arrangements with Northcote management. Under these arrangements, on January 10, 2014, Griffon issued 44,476 shares of common stock to Northcote management for an aggregate purchase price of $584 or $13.13 per share, and for each share of common stock purchased, Northcote management received one restricted stock unit (included in the detail in the prior paragraph), that vests in three equal installments over three years, subject to the attainment of specified performance criteria.

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GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


NOTE 14 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES


Operating leases

Griffon rents real property and equipment under operating leases expiring at various dates. Most of the real property leases have escalation clauses related to increases in real property taxes. Rent expense for all operating leases totaled approximately $27,784, $22,265 and $30,598 in 2014, 2013 and $34,600 in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.respectively. Aggregate future minimum lease payments for operating leases at September 30, 20132014 are $21,762 in 2014, $18,173$25,609 in 2015, $14,461$21,208 in 2016, $10,474$15,811 in 2017, $9,444$13,378 in 2018, $10,955 in 2019 and $15,006$10,435 thereafter.


Legal and environmental


Department of Environmental Conservation of New York State ((“DEC”), with ISC Properties, Inc. Lightron Corporation (“Lightron”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Griffon, once conducted operations at a location in Peekskill in the Town of Cortlandt, New York (the “Peekskill Site”) owned by ISC Properties, Inc. (“ISC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Griffon. ISC sold the Peekskill Site in November 1982.

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GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Subsequently, Griffon was advised by the DEC that random sampling at the Peekskill Site and in a creek near the Peekskill Site indicated concentrations of solvents and other chemicals common to Lightron’s prior plating operations. ISC then entered into a consent order with the DEC in 1996 (the “Consent Order”) to perform a remedial investigation and prepare a feasibility study. After completing the initial remedial investigation pursuant to the Consent Order, ISC was required by the DEC, and did conduct accordingly over the next several years, supplemental remedial investigations, including soil vapor investigations, under the Consent Order.


In April 2009, the DEC advised ISC’sISC’s representatives that both the DEC and the New York State Department of Health had reviewed and accepted an August 2007 Remedial Investigation Report and an Additional Data Collection Summary Report dated January 30, 2009. With the acceptance of these reports, ISC completed the remedial investigation required under the Consent Order and was authorized, accordingly, by the DEC to conduct the Feasibility Study required by the Consent Order. Pursuant to the requirements of the Consent Order and its obligations thereunder, ISC, without acknowledging any responsibility to perform any remediation at the Site, submitted to the DEC in August 2009, a draft feasibility study which recommended for the soil, groundwater and sediment medias, remediation alternatives having a current net capital cost value, in the aggregate, of approximately $5,000. In February 2011, DEC advised ISC it has accepted and approved the feasibility study. Accordingly, ISC has no further obligations under the consent order.


Upon acceptance of the feasibility study, DEC issued aProposed Remedial Action Plan (“PRAP”) that sets forth the proposed remedy for the site. The PRAP accepted the recommendation contained in the feasibility study for remediation of the soil and groundwater medias, but selected a different remediation alternative for the sediment medium. The approximate cost and the current net capital cost value of the remedy proposed by DEC in the PRAP is approximately $10,000. After receiving public comments on the PRAP, the DEC issued a Record of Decision (“ROD”) that set forth the specific remedies selected and responded to public comments. The remedies selected by the DEC in the ROD are the same remedies as those set forth in the PRAP.


It is now expected that DEC will enter into negotiations with potentiallypotentially responsible parties to request they undertake performance of the remedies selected in the ROD, and if such parties do not agree to implement such remedies, then the State may use State Superfund money to remediate the Peekskill site and seek recovery of costs from such parties. Griffon does not acknowledge any responsibility to perform any remediation at the Peekskill Site.


Improper Advertisement Claim involving Union Tools® Products.Since December2004,December 2004, a customer of ATTAMES has been named in various litigation matters relating to certain Union Tools products. The plaintiffs in those litigation matters have asserted causes of action against the customer of ATTAMES for improper advertisement to end consumers. The allegations suggest that advertisements led the consumers to believe that Union Tools’ hand tools were wholly manufactured within boundaries of the United States. The complaints assert various causes of action against the customer of ATTAMES under federal and state law, including common law fraud. At some point, likely once the litigation against the customer of ATTAMES ends, the customer may seek indemnity (including recovery of its legal fees and costs) against ATTAMES for an unspecified amount. Presently, ATTAMES cannot estimate the amount of loss, if any, if the customer were to seek legal recourse against ATT.AMES.


Department of Environmental Conservation of New York State, regarding Frankfort, NY site.During fiscal 2009, an underground fuel tank with surrounding soil contamination was discovered at the Frankfort, N.Y. site, which is the result of historical facility operations prior to ATT’sAMES’ ownership. While ATTAMES was actively working with the DEC and the New York State Department of

77


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


Health to define remediation requirements relative to the underground fuel tank, the DEC took the position that ATTAMES was responsible to remediate other types of contamination on the site. After negotiations with the DEC, on August 15, 2011, ATTAMES executed an Order on Consent with the DEC. The Order is without admission or finding of liability or acknowledgementacknowledgment that there has been a release of hazardous substances at the site. Importantly, the Order does not waive any rights that ATTAMES has under a 1991 Consent Judgment entered into between the DEC and a predecessor of ATTAMES relating to the site. The Order requires that ATTAMES identify Areasareas of Concernconcern at the site, and formulate a strategy to investigate and remedy both on and off site conditions in compliance with applicable environmental law. At the conclusion of the remedy phase of the remediation to the satisfaction of the DEC, the DEC will issue a Certificate of Completion. On August 1, 2012, a fire occurred during the course of demolition of certain structures at the Frankfort, NY site, requiring cleanup and additional remediation under the oversight of the DEC. Demolition of the structures on the propertyDEC, which work has been substantially completed. AMES has performed significant additional investigative and remedial activities in the last few years under work plans approved by the DEC and has submitted a remedial investigative report to the DEC, which the DEC accepted in draft form. AMES recently submitted an addendum to the remedial investigation report to the DEC. The DEC has inspected the progressnot yet provided comments, which are expected shortly. Following DEC approval of the work and is satisfied with the results thus far. On February 12, 2013, the DEC issued comments to theinvestigation report, AMES will submit a Final Remedial Investigation Work Plan previously submitted by ATT in October 2011, and in response, ATT issued a Revised Remedial Investigation Work Plan. Completion of the remedial investigation is dependent on timing of the DEC approval; no additional comments have been provided by the DEC to date. On October 21, 2013 ATT filed its revised Remedial Investigation Report with the DEC.

90
Report.

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

U.S. Government investigations and claims


Defense contracts and subcontracts, including Griffon’sGriffon’s contracts and subcontracts, are subject to audit and review by various agencies and instrumentalities of the United States government, including among others, the Defense Contract Audit Agency (“DCAA”), the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (“DCIS”), and the Department of Justice ("DOJ") which has responsibility for asserting claims on behalf of the U.S. government. In addition to ongoing audits, pursuant to an administrative subpoena Griffon is currently providing information to the U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General.General and the DOJ. No claim has been asserted against Griffon in connection with this matter, and Griffon is unaware of any material financial exposure in connection with the Inspector General’s inquiry.


In general, departments and agencies of the U.S. Government have the authority to investigate various transactions and operationsoperations of Griffon, and the results of such investigations may lead to administrative, civil or criminal proceedings, the ultimate outcome of which could be fines, penalties, repayments or compensatory or treble damages. U.S. Government regulations provide that certain findings against a contractor may lead to suspension or debarment from future U.S. Government contracts or the loss of export privileges for a company or an operating division or subdivision. Suspension or debarment could have material adverse effect on Telephonics because of its reliance on government contracts.


General legal


Griffon is subject to various laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and is a party to legal proceedingsproceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Management believes, based on facts presently known to it, that the resolution of the matters above and such other matters will not have a material adverse effect on Griffon’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

91

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

NOTE 15 – EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE


Basic and diluted EPS for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012 were determined using the following information (in thousands):

  2013  2012  2011 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic  54,428   55,914   58,919 
Incremental shares from stock based compensation  2,135   1,415    
             
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted  56,563   57,329   58,919 
             
Anti-dilutive options excluded from diluted EPS computation  714   930   1,170 
Anti-dilutive restricted stock excluded from diluted EPS computation        1,235 


 2014 2013 2012
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic49,367
 54,428
 55,914
Incremental shares from stock based compensation
 2,135
 1,415
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted49,367
 56,563
 57,329
Anti-dilutive options excluded from diluted EPS computation582
 714
 930
Anti-dilutive restricted stock excluded from diluted EPS computation1,642
 
 
Griffon has the intent and ability to settle theprincipal amount of the 2017 Notes in cash, as such,and accordingly, the potential issuance of shares related to the principal amount of the 2017 Notes does not affect diluted shares. Shares of the ESOP which have been allocated to employee accounts are treated as outstanding in determining earnings per share.

NOTE 16 – RELATED PARTIES

An affiliate of GS Direct acted as placement agent for the sale of the 2017 notes in December 2009; provided financial advice to Griffon in connection with the ATT acquisition in2010; acted as co-lead arranger, co-bookrunner and co-syndication agent in connection with a former term Loan in 2010; acted as dealer manager for the tender of two prior issuances of ATT bonds in 2010; and acted as a co-manager with respect to the sale of the 7.125% senior notes due 2018 in March 2011. Fees and expenses paid in 2011 were approximately $825.

92


78


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



NOTE 16 – RELATED PARTIES

Goldman, Sachs & Co. acted as a co-manager and as an initial purchaser in connection with the Senior Notes offering and received a fee of $825.

On December 10, 2013, Griffon repurchased 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct. The repurchase was effected in a private transaction at a per share price of $11.25, an approximate 9.2% discount to the stock’s closing price on November 12, 2013, the day before announcement of the transaction. After closing the transaction, GS Direct continued to hold approximately 5.56 million shares (approximately 10% of the shares outstanding at such time) of Griffon’s common stock. Subject to certain exceptions, if GS Direct intends to sell its remaining shares of Griffon common stock at any time prior to December 31, 2015, it will first negotiate in good faith to sell such shares to the Company.


NOTE 17 — QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)


Quarterly results of operations for the years ended September 30, 20132014 and 20122013 were as follows:

Quarter ended Revenue  Gross Profit  Net Income
(loss)
  Per Share -
Basic
  Per Share -
Diluted
 
                     
2013                    
December 31, 2012 $423,749  $97,670  $558  $0.01  $0.01 
March 31, 2013  488,743   105,497   (819)  (0.02)  (0.02)
June 30, 2013  509,826   108,311   3,603   0.07   0.06 
September 30, 2013  449,009   106,107   425   0.01   0.01 
                     
  $1,871,327  $417,585  $3,767  $0.07  $0.07 
                     
2012                    
December 31, 2011 $451,032  $102,708  $2,488  $0.04  $0.04 
March 31, 2012  482,431   102,801   2,027   0.04   0.04 
June 30, 2012  480,246   115,645   9,048   0.16   0.16 
September 30, 2012  447,436   97,651   3,448   0.06   0.06 
                     
  $1,861,145  $418,805  $17,011  $0.30  $0.30 

Quarter endedRevenue Gross Profit 
Net Income
(loss)
 
Per Share -
Basic
 
Per Share -
Diluted
2014 
  
  
  
  
December 31, 2012$453,458
 $105,503
 $3,236
 $0.06
 $0.06
March 31, 2013507,687
 109,987
 (25,825) (0.53) (0.53)
June 30, 2013505,039
 118,307
 14,464
 0.30
 0.29
September 30, 2014525,627
 125,602
 7,948
 0.16
 0.16
 $1,991,811
 $459,399
 $(177) $0.00
 $0.00
2013 
  
  
  
  
December 31, 2011$423,749
 $97,670
 $558
 $0.01
 $0.01
March 31, 2012488,743
 105,497
 (819) (0.02) (0.02)
June 30, 2012509,826
 108,311
 3,603
 0.07
 0.06
September 30, 2013449,009
 106,107
 425
 0.01
 0.01
 $1,871,327
 $417,585
 $3,767
 $0.07
 $0.07
 

Notes to Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited):

·Earnings (loss) per share are computed independently for each quarter and year presented; as such the sum of the quarters may not be equal to the full year amounts.
·2013 Net income, and the related per share earnings, included, net of tax, restructuring and other related charges of $721, $5,788, $994 and $763 for the first, second, third and fourth quarters, respectively, and $8,266 for the year; and loss on pension settlement of $1,392 for the first quarter and for the year.
·2012 Net income, and the related per share earnings, included, net of tax, restructuring and other related charges of $1,167 and $1,881 for the first and fourth quarters, respectively, and $3,048 for the year; and acquisition related costs of $116 and $194 for the first and fourth quarters, respectively, and $310 for the year.
93
Earnings (loss) per share are computed independently for each quarter and year presented; as such the sum of the quarters may not be equal to the full year amounts.

2014 Net loss, and the related per share earnings, included, net of tax, restructuring and other related charges of $522, $429, $222 and $2,631 for the first, second, third and fourth quarters, respectively, and $3,804 for the year; and acquisition related costs of $495, $992 and $473 for the first, third and fourth quarters, respectively, and $1,960 for the year; and a loss on debt extinguishment of $24,964, net of tax for the second quarter and for the year.
2013 Net income, and the related per share earnings, included, net of tax, restructuring and other related charges of $721, $5,788, $994 and $763 for the first, second, third and fourth quarters, respectively, and $8,266 for the year; and loss on pension settlement of $1,392 for the first quarter and for the year.

NOTE 18 — REPORTABLE SEGMENTS

Griffon’s reportable segments are as follows:

HBP is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains, as well as a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals.

Telephonics develops, designs and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide.


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GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

NOTE 18 — REPORTABLE SEGMENTS

Griffon’s reportable segments are as follows:

·HBP is a leading manufacturer and marketer of residential, commercial and industrial garage doors to professional installing dealers and major home center retail chains, as well as a global provider of non-powered landscaping products that make work easier for homeowners and professionals.

·Telephonics develops, designs and manufactures high-technology integrated information, communication and sensor system solutions to military and commercial markets worldwide.

·Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.



Plastics is an international leader in the development and production of embossed, laminated and printed specialty plastic films used in a variety of hygienic, health-care and industrial applications.

Griffon evaluates performance and allocates resources based on operating results before interest income or expense, income taxes and certain nonrecurring items of income or expense.

94

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollarsand non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

Information on Griffon’s reportable segments is as follows:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
REVENUE 2013  2012  2011 
Home & Building Products:            
ATT $419,549  $433,866  $434,789 
CBP  435,416   422,674   404,947 
Home & Building Products  854,965   856,540   839,736 
Telephonics  453,351   441,503   455,353 
Plastics  563,011   563,102   535,713 
Total consolidated net sales $1,871,327  $1,861,145  $1,830,802 

 For the Years Ended September 30, 
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES 2013  2012  2011 
Segment operating profit:         
Home & Building Products $26,130  $37,082  $28,228 
Telephonics  55,076   49,232   40,595 
Plastics  16,589   13,688   13,308 
Total segment operating profit  97,795   100,002   82,131 
Net interest expense  (52,167)  (51,715)  (47,448)
Unallocated amounts  (29,153)  (26,346)  (22,868)
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        (26,164)
Loss on pension settlement  (2,142)      
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations $14,333  $21,941  $(14,349)

 For the Years Ended September 30,
REVENUE2014 2013 2012
Home & Building Products: 
  
  
AMES$503,687
 $419,549
 $433,866
CBP475,756
 435,416
 422,674
Home & Building Products979,443
 854,965
 856,540
Telephonics419,005
 453,351
 441,503
Plastics593,363
 563,011
 563,102
Total consolidated net sales$1,991,811
 $1,871,327
 $1,861,145
 For the Years Ended September 30,
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES2014 2013 2012
Segment operating profit:     
Home & Building Products$40,538
 $26,130
 $37,082
Telephonics45,293
 55,076
 49,232
Plastics28,881
 16,589
 13,688
Total segment operating profit114,712
 97,795
 100,002
Net interest expense(48,144) (52,167) (51,715)
Unallocated amounts(33,394) (29,153) (26,346)
Loss from debt extinguishment(38,890) 
 
Loss on pension settlement
 (2,142) 
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations$(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941

Griffon evaluates performance and allocates resources based on each segmentssegments’ operating results before interest income and expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, unallocated amounts (mainly corporate overhead), restructuring charges, acquisition-related expenses including the impact of the fair value of inventory acquired as part of a business combination, and gains (losses) from pension settlement and debt extinguishment, as applicable (“Segment adjusted EBITDA”, a non-GAAP measure). Griffon believes this information is useful to investors for the same reason.



80


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


The following table provides a reconciliation of Segment adjusted EBITDA to Income (loss) before taxes and discontinued operations:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
  2013  2012  2011 
Segment adjusted EBITDA:            
Home & Building Products $70,064  $70,467  $77,119 
Telephonics  63,199   60,565   50,875 
Plastics  48,100   40,000   37,639 
Total Segment adjusted EBITDA  181,363   171,032   165,633 
Net interest expense  (52,167)  (51,715)  (47,448)
Segment depreciation and amortization  (70,306)  (65,864)  (60,361)
Unallocated amounts  (29,153)  (26,346)  (22,868)
Loss from debt extinguishment, net        (26,164)
Restructuring charges  (13,262)  (4,689)  (7,543)
Fair value write-up of acquired inventory sold        (15,152)
Acquisition costs     (477)  (446)
Loss on pension settlement  (2,142)      
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations $14,333  $21,941  $(14,349)
95

 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Segment adjusted EBITDA: 
  
  
Home & Building Products$77,171
 $70,064
 $70,467
Telephonics57,525
 63,199
 60,565
Plastics56,291
 48,100
 40,000
Total Segment adjusted EBITDA190,987
 181,363
 171,032
Net interest expense(48,144) (52,167) (51,715)
Segment depreciation and amortization(66,978) (70,306) (65,864)
Unallocated amounts(33,394) (29,153) (26,346)
Loss from debt extinguishment(38,890) 
 
Restructuring charges(6,136) (13,262) (4,689)
Acquisition costs(3,161) 
 (477)
Loss on pension settlement
 (2,142) 
Income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations$(5,716) $14,333
 $21,941
 For the Years Ended September 30,
DEPRECIATION and AMORTIZATION2014 2013 2012
Segment:     
Home & Building Products31,580
 $36,195
 $32,034
Telephonics7,988
 7,373
 7,518
Plastics27,410
 26,738
 26,312
Total segment depreciation and amortization66,978
 70,306
 65,864
Corporate418
 442
 400
Total consolidated depreciation and amortization67,396
 $70,748
 $66,264
      
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 
  
  
Segment: 
  
  
Home & Building Products$33,779
 $30,695
 $24,648
Telephonics20,963
 11,112
 11,979
Plastics21,032
 22,509
 32,069
Total segment75,774
 64,316
 68,696
Corporate1,320
 125
 155
Total consolidated capital expenditures$77,094
 $64,441
 $68,851
ASSETSAt September 30, 2014 At September 30, 2013 At September 30, 2012
Segment assets: 
  
  
Home & Building Products$1,030,005
 $897,215
 $940,495
Telephonics319,327
 296,919
 255,420
Plastics389,464
 422,730
 430,395
Total segment assets1,738,796
 1,616,864
 1,626,310
Corporate77,814
 156,455
 173,088
Total continuing assets1,816,610
 1,773,319
 1,799,398
Assets of discontinued operations3,751
 4,289
 3,523
Consolidated total$1,820,361
 $1,777,608
 $1,802,921

81


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

 For the Years Ended September 30, 
DEPRECIATION and AMORTIZATION 2013  2012  2011 
Segment:         
Home & Building Products $36,195  $32,034  $28,796 
Telephonics  7,373   7,518   7,234 
Plastics  26,738   26,312   24,331 
Total segment depreciation and amortization  70,306   65,864   60,361 
Corporate  442   400   351 
Total consolidated depreciation and amortization $70,748  $66,264  $60,712 
             
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES            
Segment:            
Home & Building Products $30,695  $24,648  $28,083 
Telephonics  11,112   11,979   8,291 
Plastics  22,509   32,069   50,824 
Total segment  64,316   68,696   87,198 
Corporate  125   155   419 
Total consolidated capital expenditures $64,441  $68,851  $87,617 
             
ASSETS At September
30, 2013
  At September
30, 2012
  At September
30, 2011
 
Segment assets:            
Home & Building Products $908,386  $943,766  $972,714 
Telephonics  296,919   255,420   288,968 
Plastics  422,730   430,395   450,452 
Total segment assets  1,628,035   1,629,581   1,712,134 
Corporate  156,455   173,088   148,064 
Total continuing assets  1,784,490   1,802,669   1,860,198 
Assets of discontinued operations  4,289   3,523   5,056 
Consolidated total $1,788,779  $1,806,192  $1,865,254 




Segment information by geographic region was as follows:

  For the Years Ended September 30, 
REVENUE BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA 2013  2012  2011 
United States $1,319,740  $1,317,911  $1,265,977 
Europe  255,733   255,323   262,518 
Canada  114,984   120,457   125,330 
South America  103,840   93,243   96,340 
All other countries  77,030   74,211   80,637 
Consolidated revenue $1,871,327  $1,861,145  $1,830,802 
             
LONG-LIVED ASSETS BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA At September
30, 2013
  At September
30, 2012
  At September
30, 2011
 
United States $421,604  $422,647  $394,313 
Germany  82,314   84,480   94,800 
Canada  46,792   50,894   50,093 
All other countries  24,274   29,331   34,033 
Consolidated property, plant and equipment, net $574,984  $587,352  $573,239 

 For the Years Ended September 30,
REVENUE BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA - DESTINATION2014 2013 2012
United States$1,386,575
 $1,319,740
 $1,317,911
Europe254,460
 255,733
 255,323
Canada134,637
 114,984
 120,457
South America105,691
 103,840
 93,243
All other countries110,448
 77,030
 74,211
Consolidated revenue$1,991,811
 $1,871,327
 $1,861,145
      
 For the Years Ended September 30,
LONG-LIVED ASSETS BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA2014 2013 2012
United States$439,737
 $421,604
 $422,647
Germany74,457
 82,314
 84,480
Canada42,374
 46,792
 50,894
All other countries47,620
 24,274
 29,331
Consolidated property, plant and equipment, net$604,188
 $574,984
 $587,352

As a percentage of consolidated revenue, HBP sales to the Home Depot were approximatelyapproximated 12% in 2014, 11% in 2013 and 12% in both 2012 and 2011;2012; Plastics sales to P&G were approximatelyapproximated 14% in both 2014 and 2013, and 13% in 20122012; and 14% in 2011; and Telephonics’ aggregate sales to the United States Government and its agencies aggregated approximatelyapproximated 15% in 2014 and 19% in both 2013 2012 and 2011.

96
2012.

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

NOTE 19 – OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)


Other income (expense) included $220, ($166), ($1,414) and $626$(1,414) for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011,2012, respectively, of currency exchange gains (losses) in connection with the translation of receivables and payables denominated in currencies other than the functional currencies of Griffon and its subsidiaries, as well as $110, $565 $12 and $392,$12, respectively, of investment income (loss).

97

NOTE 20 - OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
The amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) were as follows:

 Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 Pre-taxTaxNet of tax Pre-taxTaxNet of tax Pre-taxTaxNet of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments$(23,933)$
$(23,933) $(3,090)$
$(3,090) $(6,754)$
$(6,754)
Pension and other defined benefit plans(6,061)2,147
(3,914) 32,431
(13,121)19,310
 (7,817)2,736
(5,081)
Cash flow hedge386
(134)252
 


 


Available-for-sale securities1,370
(500)870
 


 


Total other comprehensive income (loss)$(28,238)$1,513
$(26,725) $29,341
$(13,121)$16,220
 $(14,571)$2,736
$(11,835)

82


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




The components of Accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:
 At September 30,
 2014 2013
Foreign currency translation adjustments$(3,820) $20,113
Pension and other defined benefit plans(27,366) (23,452)
Cash flow hedge252
 
Available-for-sale securities870
 
 $(30,064) $(3,339)

Total comprehensive income (loss) were as follows:
 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Net income (loss)$(177) $3,767
 $17,011
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes(26,725) 16,220
 (11,835)
Comprehensive income (loss)$(26,902) $19,987
 $5,176

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to income (loss) were as follows:
 For the Years Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
Pension amortization$1,934
 $3,103
 $3,049
Pension settlement
 2,142
 
Total before tax1,934
 5,245
 3,049
Tax(677) (1,540) (1,067)
Net of tax$1,257
 $3,705
 $1,982


NOTE 2021 – CONSOLIDATING GUARANTOR AND NON-GUARANTOR FINANCIAL INFORMATION


Griffon’s Senior Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior secured basis by the domestic assets of Clopay Building Products Company, Inc., Clopay Plastic Products Company, Inc., Telephonics Corporation, The AMES Companies, Inc., AMES Southern, Inc., and Clopay Ames True Temper Inc.Holding, Corp., and ATT Southern, Inc.all of which are indirectly 100% owned by Griffon. In accordance with Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, presented below are condensed consolidating financial information as of September 30, 20132014 and 2012,2013, and for the years ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.2012. The financial information may not necessarily be indicative of results of operations or financial position had the guarantor companies or non-guarantor companies operated as independent entities. The guarantor companies and the non-guarantor companies include the consolidated financial results of their wholly-ownedwholly owned subsidiaries accounted for under the equity method.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS

At September 30, 2013

  Parent
Company
  Guarantor
Companies
  Non-Guarantor
Companies
  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
CURRENT ASSETS                    
Cash and equivalents $68,994  $25,343  $83,793  $  $178,130 
Accounts receivable, net of allowances     213,506   76,241   (33,532)  256,215 
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments     109,683   145      109,828 
Inventories, net     173,406   56,723   (9)  230,120 
Prepaid and other current assets  (712)  21,854   17,330   10,431   48,903 
Assets of discontinued operations        1,214      1,214 
Total Current Assets  68,282   543,792   235,446   (23,110)  824,410 
                     
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net  972   248,973   103,648      353,593 
GOODWILL     288,146   69,584      357,730 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net     160,349   61,042      221,391 
INTERCOMPANY RECEIVABLE  547,903   911,632   573,269   (2,032,804)   
EQUITY INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES  2,217,864   533,742   2,718,956   (5,470,562)   
OTHER ASSETS  45,968   50,423   7,423   (75,234)  28,580 
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS        3,075      3,075 
Total Assets $2,880,989  $2,737,057  $3,772,443  $(7,601,710) $1,788,779 
                     
CURRENT LIABILITIES                    
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt $1,000  $1,079  $8,689  $  $10,768 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  41,121   182,765   70,427   (23,960)  270,353 
Liabilities of discontinued operations        3,288      3,288 
Total Current Liabilities  42,121   183,844   82,404   (23,960)  284,409 
                     
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discounts  656,852   9,006   12,629      678,487 
INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES  20,607   796,741   1,188,017   (2,005,365)   
OTHER LIABILITIES  65,455   153,970   25,578   (74,328)  170,675 
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS        4,744      4,744 
Total Liabilities  785,035   1,143,561   1,313,372   (2,103,653)  1,138,315 
                     
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  2,095,954   1,593,496   2,459,071   (5,498,057)  650,464 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $2,880,989  $2,737,057  $3,772,443  $(7,601,710) $1,788,779 
98

The indenture relating to the Senior Notes (the “Indenture”) contains terms providing that, under certain limited circumstances, a guarantor will be released from its obligations to guarantee the Senior Notes.  These circumstances include (i) a sale of at least a majority of the stock, or all or substantially all the assets, of the subsidiary guarantor as permitted by the Indenture; (ii) a public equity offering of a subsidiary guarantor that qualifies as a “Minority Business” as defined in the Indenture (generally, a business the EBITDA of which constitutes less than 50% of the segment adjusted EBITDA of the Company for the most recently ended four fiscal quarters), and that meets certain other specified conditions as set forth in the Indenture; (iii) the designation of a guarantor as an “unrestricted subsidiary” as defined in the Indenture, in compliance with the terms of the Indenture; (iv) Griffon exercising its right to defease the Senior Notes, or to otherwise discharge its obligations under the Indenture, in each case in accordance with the terms of the Indenture; and (v) upon obtaining the requisite consent of the holders of the Senior Notes.

83


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS
At September 30, 2012

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
CURRENT ASSETS                    
Cash and equivalents $125,093  $34,782  $49,779  $  $209,654 
Accounts receivable, net of allowances     187,487   81,274   (28,904)  239,857 
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments     69,216   1,561      70,777 
Inventories, net     194,618   63,203   47   257,868 
Prepaid and other current assets  (851)  23,929   21,968   2,426   47,472 
Assets of discontinued operations        587      587 
Total Current Assets  124,242   510,032   218,372   (26,431)  826,215 
                     
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net  1,224   244,261   111,394      356,879 
GOODWILL     288,147   70,225      358,372 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net     164,633   65,840      230,473 
INTERCOMPANY RECEIVABLE  508,984   648,347   542,025   (1,699,356)   
EQUITY INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES  2,143,427   528,411   2,650,078   (5,321,916)   
OTHER ASSETS  49,718   60,609   8,188   (87,198)  31,317 
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS        2,936      2,936 
Total Assets $2,827,595  $2,444,440  $3,669,058  $(7,134,901) $1,806,192 
                     
CURRENT LIABILITIES                    
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt $1,625  $1,032  $15,046  $  $17,703 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  44,649   167,230   66,640   (26,478)  252,041 
Liabilities of discontinued operations        3,639      3,639 
Total Current Liabilities  46,274   168,262   85,325   (26,478)  273,383 
                     
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discounts  655,023   9,782   17,102      681,907 
INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES     558,905   1,149,748   (1,708,653)   
OTHER LIABILITIES  68,827   183,989   27,489   (87,198)  193,107 
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS        3,643      3,643 
Total Liabilities  770,124   920,938   1,283,307   (1,822,329)  1,152,040 
                     
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  2,057,471   1,523,502   2,385,751   (5,312,572)  654,152 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $2,827,595  $2,444,440  $3,669,058  $(7,134,901) $1,806,192 
99
2014

 
Parent
Company
 
Guarantor
Companies
 
Non-Guarantor
Companies
 Elimination Consolidation
CURRENT ASSETS 
  
  
  
  
Cash and equivalents$6,813
 $31,522
 $54,070
 $
 $92,405
Accounts receivable, net of allowances
 213,922
 77,218
 (32,704) 258,436
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments
 109,804
 126
 
 109,930
Inventories, net
 219,326
 70,537
 272
 290,135
Prepaid and other current assets4,366
 26,319
 17,101
 14,783
 62,569
Assets of discontinued operations
 
 1,624
 
 1,624
Total Current Assets11,179
 600,893
 220,676
 (17,649) 815,099
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net1,327
 270,519
 98,643
 76
 370,565
GOODWILL
 284,875
 86,971
 
 371,846
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net
 156,772
 76,851
 
 233,623
INTERCOMPANY RECEIVABLE540,080
 892,433
 213,733
 (1,646,246) 
EQUITY INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES780,600
 662,403
 1,782,406
 (3,225,409) 
OTHER ASSETS41,680
 53,896
 6,739
 (75,213) 27,102
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
 2,126
 
 2,126
Total Assets$1,374,866
 $2,921,791
 $2,488,145
 $(4,964,441) $1,820,361
          
CURRENT LIABILITIES 
  
  
  
  
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt$2,202
 $1,144
 $4,540
 $
 $7,886
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities25,703
 227,419
 87,684
 (20,811) 319,995
Liabilities of discontinued operations
 
 3,282
 
 3,282
Total Current Liabilities27,905
 228,563
 95,506
 (20,811) 331,163
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discounts752,160
 7,806
 45,135
 
 805,101
INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES21,573
 815,094
 762,192
 (1,598,859) 
OTHER LIABILITIES41,201
 151,674
 26,949
 (71,584) 148,240
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
 3,830
 
 3,830
Total Liabilities842,839
 1,203,137
 933,612
 (1,691,254) 1,288,334
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY532,027
 1,718,654
 1,554,533
 (3,273,187) 532,027
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity$1,374,866
 $2,921,791
 $2,488,145
 $(4,964,441) $1,820,361

84


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

For the Year EndedBALANCE SHEETS

At September 30, 2013

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
Revenue $  $1,459,705  $463,767  $(52,145) $1,871,327 
Cost of goods and services     1,107,440   392,588   (46,286)  1,453,742 
Gross profit     352,265   71,179   (5,859)  417,585 
                     
Selling, general and administrative expenses  24,248   269,654   52,819   (6,252)  340,469 
Restructuring and other related charges     9,236   4,026      13,262 
Total operating expenses  24,248   278,890   56,845   (6,252)  353,731 
                     
Income (loss) from operations  (24,248)  73,375   14,334   393   63,854 
                     
Other income (expense)                    
Interest income (expense), net  (14,381)  (27,660)  (10,126)     (52,167)
Other, net  569   9,656   (5,731)  (1,848)  2,646 
Total other income (expense)  (13,812)  (18,004)  (15,857)  (1,848)  (49,521)
                     
Income (loss) before taxes  (38,060)  55,371   (1,523)  (1,455)  14,333 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  (14,888)  20,603   1,781   47   7,543 
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries  (23,172)  34,768   (3,304)  (1,502)  6,790 
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries  28,441   35   34,768   (63,244)   
Income (loss) from continuing operations $5,269  $34,803  $31,464  $(64,746) $6,790 
Loss from operations of discontinued businesses        (4,651)     (4,651)
Benefit from income taxes        1,628      1,628 
Loss from discontinued operations        (3,023)     (3,023)
Net income (loss) $5,269  $34,803  $28,441  $(64,746) $3,767 
                     
Net Income (loss) $5,269  $34,803  $28,441  $(64,746) $3,767 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes  886   (22,398)  37,732      16,220 
Comprehensive income (loss) $6,155  $12,405  $66,173  $(64,746) $19,987 
100

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
CURRENT ASSETS 
  
  
  
  
Cash and equivalents$68,994
 $25,343
 $83,793
 $
 $178,130
Accounts receivable, net of allowances
 213,506
 76,241
 (33,532) 256,215
Contract costs and recognized income not yet billed, net of progress payments
 109,683
 145
 
 109,828
Inventories, net
 173,406
 56,723
 (9) 230,120
Prepaid and other current assets(712) 13,954
 17,330
 10,431
 41,003
Assets of discontinued operations
 
 1,214
 
 1,214
Total Current Assets68,282
 535,892
 235,446
 (23,110) 816,510
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net972
 248,973
 103,648
 
 353,593
GOODWILL
 284,875
 69,584
 
 354,459
INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net
 160,349
 61,042
 
 221,391
INTERCOMPANY RECEIVABLE547,903
 911,632
 573,269
 (2,032,804) 
EQUITY INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES772,374
 533,742
 2,718,956
 (4,025,072) 
OTHER ASSETS45,968
 50,423
 7,423
 (75,234) 28,580
ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
 3,075
 
 3,075
Total Assets$1,435,499
 $2,725,886
 $3,772,443
 $(6,156,220) $1,777,608
CURRENT LIABILITIES 
  
  
  
  
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt$1,000
 $1,079
 $8,689
 $
 $10,768
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities41,121
 183,665
 70,427
 (24,860) 270,353
Liabilities of discontinued operations
 
 3,288
 
 3,288
Total Current Liabilities42,121
 184,744
 82,404
 (24,860) 284,409
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of debt discounts656,852
 9,006
 12,629
 
 678,487
INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES20,607
 796,741
 1,188,017
 (2,005,365) 
OTHER LIABILITIES65,455
 142,799
 25,578
 (74,328) 159,504
LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
 4,744
 
 4,744
Total Liabilities785,035
 1,133,290
 1,313,372
 (2,104,553) 1,127,144
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY650,464
 1,592,596
 2,459,071
 (4,051,667) 650,464
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity$1,435,499
 $2,725,886
 $3,772,443
 $(6,156,220) $1,777,608


85


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

For the Year Ended September 30, 2012

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
Revenue $  $1,414,910  $499,860  $(53,625) $1,861,145 
Cost of goods and services     1,060,183   428,760   (46,603)  1,442,340 
Gross profit     354,727   71,100   (7,022)  418,805 
                     
Selling, general and administrative expenses  18,982   267,677   62,564   (7,527)  341,696 
Restructuring and other related charges     4,674   15      4,689 
Total operating expenses  18,982   272,351   62,579   (7,527)  346,385 
                     
Income (loss) from operations  (18,982)  82,376   8,521   505   72,420 
                     
Other income (expense)                    
Interest income (expense), net  (14,541)  (25,183)  (11,991)     (51,715)
Other, net  13   10,826   (7,756)  (1,847)  1,236 
Total other income (expense)  (14,528)  (14,357)  (19,747)  (1,847)  (50,479)
                     
Income (loss) before taxes  (33,510)  68,019   (11,226)  (1,342)  21,941 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  (20,363)  25,366   (73)     4,930 
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries  (13,147)  42,653   (11,153)  (1,342)  17,011 
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries  31,500   (11,007)  42,653   (63,146)   
Net income (loss) $18,353  $31,646  $31,500  $(64,488) $17,011 
                     
Net Income (loss) $18,353  $31,646  $31,500  $(64,488) $17,011 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes  (619)  19,777   (30,993)     (11,835)
Comprehensive income (loss) $17,734  $51,423  $507  $(64,488) $5,176 
101
2014

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
Revenue$
 $1,526,678
 $519,349
 $(54,216) $1,991,811
Cost of goods and services
 1,156,268
 424,568
 (48,424) 1,532,412
Gross profit
 370,410
 94,781
 (5,792) 459,399
          
Selling, general and administrative expenses24,248
 281,930
 75,551
 (6,466) 375,099
Restructuring and other related charges
 4,234
 1,902
 
 6,136
Total operating expenses24,248
 286,164
 77,453
 (6,466) 381,235
          
Income (loss) from operations(24,084) 84,246
 17,328
 674
 78,164
          
Other income (expense) 
  
  
  
  
Interest income (expense), net(10,079) (28,630) (9,435) 
 (48,144)
Extinguishment of debt(38,890) 
 
 
 (38,890)
Other, net111
 7,945
 (4,228) (674) 3,154
Total other income (expense)(48,858) (20,685) (13,663) (674) (83,880)
          
Income (loss) before taxes(72,942) 63,561
 3,665
 
 (5,716)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(32,044) 26,480
 25
 
 (5,539)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries(40,898) 37,081
 3,640
 
 (177)
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries40,721
 3,531
 37,081
 (81,333) 
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(177) $40,612
 $40,721
 $(81,333) $(177)
Loss from operations of discontinued businesses
 
 
 
 
Benefit from income taxes
 
 
 
 
Loss from discontinued operations
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)$(177) $40,612
 $40,721
 $(81,333) $(177)
          
Comprehensive income (loss)$372
 $28,355
 $25,704
 $(81,333) $(26,902)


86


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

For the Year Ended September 30, 2011

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
Revenue $  $1,379,535  $489,342  $(38,075) $1,830,802 
Cost of goods and services     1,055,520   421,261   (39,440)  1,437,341 
Gross profit     324,015   68,081   1,365   393,461 
                     
Selling, general and administrative expenses  16,292   256,880   57,538   (341)  330,369 
Restructuring and other related charges  364   7,018   161      7,543 
Total operating expenses  16,656   263,898   57,699   (341)  337,912 
                     
Income (loss) from operations  (16,656)  60,117   10,382   1,706   55,549 
                     
Other income (expense)                    
Interest income (expense), net  (12,607)  (26,414)  (8,427)     (47,448)
Loss from debt extinguishment, net     (397)  (25,767)     (26,164)
Other, net  (648)  6,882   (1,338)  (1,182)  3,714 
Total other income (expense)  (13,255)  (19,929)  (35,532)  (1,182)  (69,898)
                     
Income (loss) before taxes  (29,911)  40,188   (25,150)  524   (14,349)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes  (14,943)  17,977   (9,952)     (6,918)
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries  (14,968)  22,211   (15,198)  524   (7,431)
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries  7,013   1,139   22,211   (30,363)   
Net income (loss) $(7,955) $23,350  $7,013  $(29,839) $(7,431)
                     
Net Income (loss) $(7,955) $23,350  $7,013  $(29,839) $(7,431)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes  866   (36,069)  (27,615)  37,512   (25,306)
Comprehensive income (loss) $(7,089) $(12,719) $(20,602) $7,673  $(32,737)
102
2013

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
Revenue$
 $1,459,705
 $463,767
 $(52,145) $1,871,327
Cost of goods and services
 1,107,440
 392,588
 (46,286) 1,453,742
Gross profit
 352,265
 71,179
 (5,859) 417,585
Selling, general and administrative expenses24,248
 269,654
 52,819
 (6,252) 340,469
Restructuring and other related charges
 9,236
 4,026
 
 13,262
Total operating expenses24,248
 278,890
 56,845
 (6,252) 353,731
Income (loss) from operations(24,248) 73,375
 14,334
 393
 63,854
Other income (expense) 
  
  
  
  
Interest income (expense), net(14,381) (27,660) (10,126) 
 (52,167)
Other, net569
 9,656
 (7,233) (346) 2,646
Total other income (expense)(13,812) (18,004) (17,359) (346) (49,521)
Income (loss) before taxes(38,060) 55,371
 (3,025) 47
 14,333
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(14,888) 20,603
 1,781
 47
 7,543
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries(23,172) 34,768
 (4,806) 
 6,790
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries26,939
 (1,467) 34,768
 (60,240) 
Income (loss) from continuing operations3,767
 33,301
 29,962
 (60,240) 6,790
Loss from operations of discontinued businesses
 
 (4,651) 
 (4,651)
Benefit from income taxes
 
 1,628
 
 1,628
Loss from discontinued operations
 
 (3,023) 
 (3,023)
Net Income (loss)$3,767
 $33,301
 $26,939
 $(60,240) $3,767
Comprehensive income (loss)$4,653
 $10,903
 $64,671
 $(60,240) $19,987


87


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

For the Year Ended September 30, 2013

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                    
Net income (loss) $5,269  $34,803  $28,441  $(64,746) $3,767 
                     
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  (25,184)  83,177   27,690      85,683 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                    
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment  (123)  (56,617)  (7,701)     (64,441)
Intercompany distributions  10,000   (10,000)         
Proceeds from sale of assets     1,404   169      1,573 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities  9,877   (65,213)  (7,532)     (62,868)
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                    
Purchase of shares for treasury  (32,521)           (32,521)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt     303         303 
Payments of long-term debt  (2,157)  (1,032)  (13,678)     (16,867)
Change in short-term borrowings        2,950      2,950 
Financing costs  (833)           (833)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net  150            150 
Dividend  (5,825)           (5,825)
Other, net  394   (26,674)  26,674      394 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (40,792)  (27,403)  15,946      (52,249)
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:                    
Net cash used in discontinued operations        (2,090)     (2,090)
                     
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents               
                     
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS  (56,099)  (9,439)  34,014      (31,524)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  125,093   34,782   49,779      209,654 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $68,994  $25,343  $83,793  $  $178,130 
103
2012

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
Revenue$
 $1,414,910
 $499,860
 $(53,625) $1,861,145
Cost of goods and services
 1,060,183
 428,760
 (46,603) 1,442,340
Gross profit
 354,727
 71,100
 (7,022) 418,805
Selling, general and administrative expenses18,982
 267,677
 62,564
 (7,527) 341,696
Restructuring and other related charges
 4,674
 15
 
 4,689
Total operating expenses18,982
 272,351
 62,579
 (7,527) 346,385
Income (loss) from operations(18,982) 82,376
 8,521
 505
 72,420
Other income (expense) 
  
  
  
  
Interest income (expense), net(14,541) (25,183) (11,991) 
 (51,715)
Other, net13
 9,484
 (7,756) (505) 1,236
Total other income (expense)(14,528) (15,699) (19,747) (505) (50,479)
Income (loss) before taxes(33,510) 66,677
 (11,226) 
 21,941
Provision (benefit) for income taxes(20,363) 25,366
 (73) 
 4,930
Income (loss) before equity in net income of subsidiaries(13,147) 41,311
 (11,153) 
 17,011
Equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries30,158
 (11,007) 41,311
 (60,462) 
Net income (loss)$17,011
 $30,304
 $30,158
 $(60,462) $17,011
Comprehensive income (loss)$16,392
 $50,081
 $(835) $(60,462) $5,176


88


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the Year Ended September 30, 2012

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                    
Net income (loss) $18,353  $31,646  $31,500  $(64,488) $17,011 
                     
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  (24,315)  93,349   21,096      90,130 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                    
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment  (155)  (63,388)  (5,308)     (68,851)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired     (22,432)        (22,432)
Intercompany distributions  10,000   (10,000)         
Proceeds from sale of assets     200   109      309 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities  9,845   (95,620)  (5,199)     (90,974)
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                    
Purchase of shares for treasury  (10,382)           (10,382)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt  (23,000)  491,372   27,000   (491,372)  4,000 
Payments of long-term debt  (1,625)  (4,351)  (12,570)     (18,546)
Change in short-term borrowings        (1,859)     (1,859)
Financing costs  (65)     (32)     (97)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net  834            834 
Dividend  (4,743)  (219,516)  219,516      (4,743)
Other, net  96   (245,616)  (245,752)  491,372   100 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (38,885)  21,889   (13,697)     (30,693)
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:                    
Net cash used in discontinued operations        (2,801)     (2,801)
                     
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents        963      963 
                     
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS  (53,355)  19,618   362      (33,375)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  178,448   15,164   49,417      243,029 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $125,093  $34,782  $49,779  $  $209,654 
104
2014

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Net income (loss)$(177) $40,612
 $40,721
 $(81,333) $(177)
Net cash provided by operating activities(3,902) 17,168
 80,035
 
 93,301
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:         
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment(700) (64,320) (12,074) 
 (77,094)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired
 2,675
 (64,981) 
 (62,306)
Intercompany distributions10,000
 (10,000) 
 
 
Purchase of securities(8,402) 
 
 
 (8,402)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
 360
 192
 
 552
Net cash used in investing activities898
 (71,285) (76,863) 
 (147,250)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:         
Proceeds from issuance of common stock584
 
 
 
 584
Purchase of shares for treasury(79,614) 
 
 
 (79,614)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt659,568
 (102) 32,477
 
 691,943
Payments of long-term debt(598,250) (1,135) (3,709) 
 (603,094)
Change in short-term borrowings
 
 (749) 
 (749)
Financing costs(10,763) 
 (535) 
 (11,298)
Purchase of ESOP shares(20,000) 
 
 
 (20,000)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net273
 
 
 
 273
Dividend(11,273) 5,000
 
 
 (6,273)
Other, net298
 56,533
 (56,533) 
 298
Net cash used in financing activities(59,177) 60,296
 (29,049) 
 (27,930)
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:         
Net cash used in discontinued operations
 
 (1,528) 
 (1,528)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents
 
 (2,318) 
 (2,318)
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS(62,181) 6,179
 (29,723) 
 (85,725)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD68,994
 25,343
 83,793
 
 178,130
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD$6,813
 $31,522
 $54,070
 $
 $92,405


89


GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)




CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the Year Ended September 30, 2011

  Parent Company  Guarantor Companies  Non-Guarantor Companies  Elimination  Consolidation 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:                    
Net income (loss) $(7,955) $23,350  $7,013  $(29,839) $(7,431)
                     
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities  43,407   38,657   (46,679)     35,385 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:                    
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment  (418)  (55,455)  (31,744)     (87,617)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired     (1,066)  211      (855)
Intercompany distributions  10,000   (10,000)         
Funds restricted for capital projects     4,629         4,629 
Proceeds from sale of assets     68   1,442      1,510 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities  9,582   (61,824)  (30,091)     (82,333)
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:                    
Purchase of shares for treasury  (18,139)           (18,139)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt  569,973      104,278      674,251 
Payments of long-term debt  (625)  (31,138)  (466,809)     (498,572)
Change in short-term borrowings        3,538      3,538 
Intercompany debt  (468,372)     468,372       
Financing costs  (14,663)     (6,990)     (21,653)
Purchase of ESOP shares  (19,973)           (19,973)
Exercise of stock options  2,306            2,306 
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net  7            7 
Other, net  345   12,356   (12,356)     345 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  50,859   (18,782)  90,033      122,110 
                     
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:                    
Net cash used in discontinued operations        (962)     (962)
                     
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents        (973)     (973)
                     
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS  103,848   (41,949)  11,328      73,227 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  74,600   57,113   38,089      169,802 
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $178,448  $15,164  $49,417  $  $243,029 
2013

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Net income (loss)$3,767
 $33,301
 $26,939
 $(60,240) $3,767
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities(25,184) 83,177
 27,690
 
 85,683
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment(123) (56,617) (7,701) 
 (64,441)
Intercompany distributions10,000
 (10,000) 
 
 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
 1,404
 169
 
 1,573
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities9,877
 (65,213) (7,532) 
 (62,868)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Purchase of shares for treasury(32,521) 
 
 
 (32,521)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
 303
 
 
 303
Payments of long-term debt(2,157) (1,032) (13,678) 
 (16,867)
Change in short-term borrowings
 
 2,950
 
 2,950
Financing costs(833) 
 
 
 (833)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net150
 
 
 
 150
Dividend(5,825) 
 
 
 (5,825)
Other, net394
 (26,674) 26,674
 
 394
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(40,792) (27,403) 15,946
 
 (52,249)
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS: 
  
  
  
  
Net cash used in discontinued operations
 
 (2,090) 
 (2,090)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents
 
 
 
 
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS(56,099) (9,439) 34,014
 
 (31,524)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD125,093
 34,782
 49,779
 
 209,654
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD$68,994
 $25,343
 $83,793
 $
 $178,130





90


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Year Ended September 30, 2012

 Parent Company Guarantor Companies Non-Guarantor Companies Elimination Consolidation
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Net income (loss)$17,011
 $30,304
 $30,158
 $(60,462) $17,011
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities(24,315) 93,349
 21,096
 
 90,130
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment(155) (63,388) (5,308) 
 (68,851)
Acquired business, net of cash acquired
 (22,432) 
 
 (22,432)
Intercompany distributions10,000
 (10,000) 
 
 
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
 200
 109
 
 309
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities9,845
 (95,620) (5,199) 
 (90,974)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: 
  
  
  
  
Purchase of shares for treasury(10,382) 
 
 
 (10,382)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt(23,000) 491,372
 27,000
 (491,372) 4,000
Payments of long-term debt(1,625) (4,351) (12,570) 
 (18,546)
Change in short-term borrowings
 
 (1,859) 
 (1,859)
Financing costs(65) 
 (32) 
 (97)
Tax effect from exercise/vesting of equity awards, net834
 
 
 
 834
Dividend(4,743) (219,516) 219,516
 
 (4,743)
Other, net96
 (245,616) (245,752) 491,372
 100
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(38,885) 21,889
 (13,697) 
 (30,693)
CASH FLOWS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS: 
  
  
  
  
Net cash used in discontinued operations
 
 (2,801) 
 (2,801)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents
 
 963
 
 963
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS(53,355) 19,618
 362
 
 (33,375)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD178,448
 15,164
 49,417
 
 243,029
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD$125,093
 $34,782
 $49,779
 $
 $209,654


91


GRIFFON CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)
(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)



NOTE 2122 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS


On November 13, 2013, Griffon announced that it will repurchase 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct, L.L.C. (“GS Direct”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. The repurchase will be effected in a private transaction at a per share price of $11.25, an approximate 9.2% discount to the stock’s closing price on November 12, 2013. The transaction is exclusive of the Company´s current $50,000 authorized share repurchase program, of which $12,027 remained as of September 30, 2013. After closing of the transaction, GS Direct will continue to hold approximately 5.56 million shares (approximately 10%) of Griffon’s common stock. GS Direct has also agreed that, subject to certain exceptions, if it intends to sell its remaining shares of Griffon common stock at any time prior to December 31, 2014, it will first negotiate with the Company in good faith to sell the shares to the Company. Griffon will fund the purchase with cash on hand and the transaction will be completed in December.

105

GRIFFON CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(US dollars and non US currencies in thousands, except per share data)

On November 13, 2013, Griffon declared a $0.03$0.04 per share dividend payable on December 24, 201323, 2014 to shareholders of record as of December 5, 2013.3, 2014. Griffon currently intends to pay dividends each quarter; however, the payment of dividends is determined by the Board of Directors, at its discretion, based on various factors, and no assurance can be provided as to the payment of future dividends.



*****

106


92



SCHEDULE II


GRIFFON CORPORATION

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER
For the Years Ended September 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 AND 2011

(in thousands)

Description Balance at
Beginning of
 Year
  Recorded to
 Cost and
Expense
  Accounts
Written Off,
net
  Other  Balance at
End of Year
 
                     
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013                
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts                    
Bad debts $4,146  $2,939  $(3,948) $9  $3,146 
Sales returns and allowances  1,287   1,859   (146)  (10)  2,990 
�� $5,433  $4,798  $(4,094) $(1) $6,136 
                     
Inventory valuation $18,787  $5,788  $(8,490) $(357) $15,728 
                     
Deferred tax valuation allowance $10,541  $2,880  $  $  $13,421 
                     
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012                
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts                    
Bad debts $4,610  $2,009  $(2,284) $(189) $4,146 
Sales returns and allowances  1,462   2,018   (2,160)  (33)  1,287 
  $6,072  $4,027  $(4,444) $(222) $5,433 
                     
Inventory valuation $19,557  $3,487  $(3,995) $(262) $18,787 
                     
Deferred tax valuation allowance $9,481  $1,060  $  $  $10,541 
                     
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011                
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts                    
Bad debts $5,091  $1,121  $(1,405) $(197) $4,610 
Sales returns and allowances  1,490   2,741   (2,748)  (21)  1,462 
  $6,581  $3,862  $(4,153) $(218) $6,072 
                     
Inventory valuation $16,720  $8,651  $(5,631) $(183) $19,557 
                     
Deferred tax valuation allowance $13,977  $(4,496) $  $  $9,481 
                     
Note: This Schedule II is for continuing operations only.                

Description
Balance at
Beginning of
 Year
 
Recorded to
 Cost and
Expense
 
Accounts
Written Off,
net
 Other 
Balance at
End of Year
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2014   
  
  
  
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts 
  
  
  
  
Bad debts$4,080
 $359
 $(784) $(28) $3,627
Sales returns and allowances2,056
 3,655
 (1,985) (17) 3,709
 $6,136
 $4,014
 $(2,769) $(45) $7,336
          
Inventory valuation$15,728
 $13,613
 $(12,627) $(101) $16,613
          
Deferred tax valuation allowance$13,421
 $(666) $
 $
 $12,755
          
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2013   
  
  
  
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts 
  
  
  
  
Bad debts$4,146
 $1,813
 $(1,888) $9
 $4,080
Sales returns and allowances1,287
 1,860
 (1,080) (11) 2,056
 $5,433
 $3,673
 $(2,968) $(2) $6,136
          
Inventory valuation$18,787
 $5,788
 $(8,490) $(357) $15,728
          
Deferred tax valuation allowance$10,541
 $2,880
 $
 $
 $13,421
          
FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012   
  
  
  
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts 
  
  
  
  
Bad debts$4,610
 $1,469
 $(1,744) $(189) $4,146
Sales returns and allowances1,462
 2,018
 (2,160) (33) 1,287
 $6,072
 $3,487
 $(3,904) $(222) $5,433
          
Inventory valuation$19,557
 $3,487
 $(3,995) $(262) $18,787
          
Deferred tax valuation allowance$9,481
 $1,060
 $
 $
 $10,541

Note: This Schedule II is for continuing operations only.


93


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

Not applicable.

Item 9A.Controls and Procedures

Evaluation and Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Griffon’s management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Griffon’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e). Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, Griffon’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by Griffon in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act are recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms and such information is accumulated and communicated to management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Griffon’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of Griffon’s financial statements for external reporting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Management evaluates the effectiveness of Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting using the criteria set forth by the 1992 Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework. Management, under the supervision and with the participation of Griffon’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, assessed the effectiveness of Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 20132014 and concluded that it is effective.

Griffon’s independent registered public accounting firm, Grant Thornton LLP, has audited the effectiveness of Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2013,2014, and has expressed an unqualified opinion in their report which appears in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Controls

There were no changes in Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation referred to above that occurred during the fourth quarter of the year ended September 30, 20132014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.


Inherent Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting is 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. Griffon’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

(i)pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of Griffon’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 Griffon’s receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of Griffon’s management and directors; and
(iii)provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of Griffon’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.


Management, including Griffon’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that Griffon’s internal controls will prevent or detect all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of internal controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. Also, any evaluation of the effectiveness of controls in future

94


periods is subject to the risk that those internal controls may become inadequate because of changes in business conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Item 9B.Other Information

On November 13, 2013, Griffon announced that it will repurchase approximately 4,444,444 shares of its common stock for $50,000 from GS Direct, L.L.C. (“GS Direct”), an affiliate of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. The repurchase will be effected in a private transaction at a per share price of $11.25, an approximate 9.2% discount to the stock’s closing price on November 12, 2013. The transaction is exclusive of the Company’s current $50,000 authorized share repurchase program, of which $12,027 remained as of September 30, 2013. After closing of the transaction, GS Direct will continue to hold approximately 5.56 million shares (approximately 10%) of Griffon’s common stock. Goldman Sachs has also agreed that, subject to certain exceptions, if it intends to sell its remaining shares of Griffon common stock at any time prior to December 31, 2014, it will first negotiate with the Company in good faith to sell the shares to the Company. Griffon will fund the purchase with cash on hand and the transaction will be completed in December.

GS Direct is party to an investment agreement with Griffon pursuant to which it has certain rights and is subject to certain restrictions, including the right to nominate one individual to serve on Griffon’s Board of Directors (based on GS Direct’s ownership level of Griffon’s outstanding common stock after giving effect to the repurchase described above).

None.



95


PART III

The information required byPart III: Item 10,Directors, and Executive Officers and Corporate Governance; Item 11,Executive Compensation; Item 13,Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence; and Item 14,Principal Accountant Fees and Services is included in and incorporated by reference to Griffon’s definitive proxy statement in connection with its Annual Meeting of Stockholders scheduled to be held in January, 2014,2015, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days following the end of Griffon’s year ended September 30, 2013.2014. Information relating to the executive officers of the Registrant appears under Item 1 of this report.


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

The information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management that is required to be included pursuant to this Item 12 is included in and incorporated by reference to Griffon’s definitive proxy statement in connection with its Annual Meeting of Stockholders scheduled to be held in January, 2014.

2015.

The following sets forth information relating to Griffon’s equity compensation plans as of September 30, 2013:

  (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 plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
 
             
Equity compensation plans approved by security
holders (1)
  608,035  $20.11   672,332 
             
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders (2)  106,200  $20.38     
2014:
 
 (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 plans (excluding
securities reflected in
column (a))
Equity compensation plans approved by security
holders (1)
579,285
 $20.20
 984,297
      
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders (2)3,600
 $26.06
  

(1)Excludes restricted shares issued in connection with Griffon’s equity compensation plans. The total reflected in Column (c) includes shares available for grant as any equity award under the Incentive Plan.


(2)Griffon’s 1998 Employee and Director Stock Option Plan is the only equity plan which was not approved by Griffon’s stockholders. No new grants have been made under The Employee and Director Stock Option Plan since February 2008.



96


PART IV


Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a)(1)
Financial Statements–Covered by Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
  (A)
 (A)Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 20132014 and 20122013
  (B)
 (B)Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012
  (C)
 (C)Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012
  (D)
 (D)Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012
  (E)
 (E)Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
  (2)
 (2)
Financial Statement Schedule– Covered by Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
  
  Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
  
  All other schedules are not required and have been omitted.
  (3)
 (3)Exhibits – see (b) below


(b) Exhibits:


97


Exhibit
No.
  
3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation (Exhibit 3.1 of Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1995 (Commission File No. 1-06620) and Exhibit 3.1 of Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
3.2 Amended and Restated By-laws (Exhibit 3.1 of Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
4.1 Specimen Certificate for Shares of Common Stock of Registrant (Exhibit 4.3 of Registration Statement on Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 333-109171).
4.2 Indenture, dated December 21, 2009, between Griffon Corporation and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 21, 2009 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
4.3 Indenture, dated as of March 17, 2011, by and among Griffon Corporation, the guarantors party thereto and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 18, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
4.4 Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 27, 2014, between Griffon Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (Exhibit 4.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 27, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
4.5Indenture, dated as of February 27, 2014, among Griffon Corporation, the Guarantors named on the signature pages thereto and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 27, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
4.6 Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 17, 2011,as of February 27, 2014, by and among Griffon Corporation, the guarantorsGuarantors party thereto and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as the representativeRepresentative of the several initial purchasersInitial Purchasers (Exhibit 4.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 18, 2011dated February 27, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.1** Employment Agreement dated as of July 1, 2001 between the Registrant and Harvey R. Blau (Exhibit 10.1 of Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 18, 2001 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.2** Employment Agreement dated as of July 1, 2001 between the Registrant and Robert Balemian (Exhibit 10.2 of Current Report on Form 8-K file May 18, 2001 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.3 Form of Trust Agreement between the Registrant and Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee, dated October 2, 2006, relating to Griffon’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (Exhibit 10.3 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2006 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.4** Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 10.12 of Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1998 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.5 Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and its officers and directors (Exhibit 10.2 of Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.6** 1997 Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 4.2 of Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-21503 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.7** 2001 Stock Option Plan (Exhibit 4.1 of Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-67760).
10.8** 1998 Employee and Director Stock Option Plan, as amended (Exhibit 4.1 of Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-102742).
10.9**1998 Employee and Director Stock Option Plan, as amended (Exhibit 4.1 of Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-102742).
10.10** Amendment to Employment Agreement between the Registrant and Harvey R. Blau dated August 8, 2003 (Exhibit 10.1 of Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.11*10.10** Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement (Exhibit 4.1 of Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-131737).
10.12*10.11** Griffon Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (Exhibit 10.1 of Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2008 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.13*10.12** Amendment No. 2 to Employment Agreement, dated July 18, 2006 between the Registrant and Harvey R. Blau (Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 21, 2006 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.14*10.13** Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan as amended through July 18, 2006 (Exhibit 10.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 21, 2006 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.15*10.14** Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Griffon Corporation 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (Exhibit 10.3 to Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed July 31, 2006 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.16*10.15** Amendment No. 3 to Employment Agreement, dated August 3, 2007, between the Registrant and Harvey R. Blau (Exhibit 10.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 6, 2007 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
Exhibit
No.
10.17*10.16** Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan dated August 3, 2007 (Exhibit 10.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 6, 2007 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.18*10.17** Employment Agreement, dated March 16, 2008, between the Registrant and Ronald J. Kramer. (Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 20, 2008 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).

98


10.19**
Exhibit
No.
 
10.18** Employment Agreement dated August 6, 2009, between the Registrant and Douglas J. Wetmore (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.20*10.19** Offer Letter Agreement, dated April 27, 2010 between the Company and Seth L. Kaplan (Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.21*10.20** Severance Agreement, dated April 27, 2010 between the Company and Seth L. Kaplan (Exhibit 10.2 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.22*10.21** Letter Agreement, dated February 3, 2011, between Griffon Corporation and Harvey R. Blau (Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.23*10.22** Griffon Corporation Director Compensation Program, dated January 30, 2013 (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.24*10.23** Griffon Corporation 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 9, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.25*10.24** Griffon Corporation 2011 Equity Incentive Plan, amended as of January 30, 2013 (Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.26*10.25** Form of Award Agreement for Restricted Share Award under Griffon Corporation 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 9, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.27*10.26** Griffon Corporation 2011 Performance Bonus Plan (Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 9, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.28*10.27** Amendment No.1 to Employment Agreement made as of February 3, 2011 by and between Griffon Corporation and Ronald J. Kramer (Exhibit 99.4 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 9, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.2910.28** Letter agreement, dated March 8, 2013, among Griffon Corporation, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.3010.29 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of March 28, 2013, by and among Griffon Corporation, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as syndication agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, HSBC Bank USA, N.A and RBS Citizens, N.A., as co-documentation agents, and the other lenders party thereto (Exhibit 99.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 1, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
Exhibit
No.
10.3110.30 First Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 11, 2013, to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of March 28, 2013, among Griffon Corporation, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as syndication agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, HSBC Bank USA, N.A and RBS Citizens, N.A., as co-documentation agents, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.3210.31 Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of March 18, 2011, by Griffon Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (Exhibit 99.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 18, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.3310.32 Amendment, dated as of March 28, 2013, to Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of March 18, 2011, by Griffon Corporation and certain of its subsidiaries in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent (Exhibit 99.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 1, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.34*10.33** Amended and Restated Restricted Share Award letter made as of January 10, 2012 by and between Griffon Corporation and Ronald J. Kramer (Exhibit 99.1 to Current Report on Form  8-K filed January 10, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.35*10.34** Amended and Restated Restricted Share Award letter made as of January 10, 2012 by and between Griffon Corporation and Douglas J. Wetmore (Exhibit 99.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 10, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.36*10.35** Employment Agreement, dated December 7, 2012, by and between Griffon Corporation and Robert F. Mehmel (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.37*10.36** Restricted Share Award letter made as of December 10, 2012, by and between Griffon Corporation and Robert F. Mehmel (Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).
10.38*10.37** Consulting Agreement, dated December 11, 2012, by and between Griffon Corporation and Patrick L. Alesia (Exhibit 10.3 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-06620)).

99


Exhibit
No.
10.38**Griffon Corporation 2011 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated through January 30, 2014 (Exhibit A to the Registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 20, 2013).
10.39**Amendment No. 2 to Employment Agreement made as of December 12, 2013 by and between Griffon Corporation and Ronald J. Kramer (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
10.40Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2014, by and among Griffon Corporation, the Guarantors named therein and Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as Representative of the several Initial Purchasers named therein (Exhibit 99.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 12, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
10.41Fourth Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of February 14, 2014, to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of March 28, 2013 among Griffon Corporation, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., as syndication agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, HSBC Bank USA, N.A. and RBS Citizens, N.A., as co-documentation agents, and the other lenders thereto (Exhibit 99.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 14, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
10.42**Griffon Corporation Director Compensation Program, dated May 1, 2014 (Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-06620))
10.43*Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2013, by and between G.S. Direct, L.L.C. and Griffon Corporation.
10.44*

Letter agreement, dated November 12, 2014, by and between G.S. Direct, L.L.C and Griffon Corporation, amending that certain Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2013, by and between G.S. Direct, L.L.C. and Griffon Corporation.
14.1 Code of Ethics for the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers (Exhibit 14.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 9, 2011).
14.2 Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (Exhibit 14.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 9, 2011).
21* Subsidiaries of the Registrant
23* Consent of Grant Thornton LLP
31.1* Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
31.2* Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act
32* Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 18 USC Section 1350.

  
101.INSXBRL Instance Document***
  
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document***
  
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Document***
  
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Document***
  
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Document***
  
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Document***

_______________________
*Filed herewith. All other exhibits are incorporated herein by reference to the exhibit indicated in the parenthetical references.
**Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
***In accordance with Regulation S-T, the XBRL-related information in Exhibit 101 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K shall be deemed to be “furnished” and not “filed.”


100


Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Griffon has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on the 15th12th day of November 2013.

2014. 
 Griffon Corporation
 By:/s/Ronald J. Kramer
  Ronald J. Kramer,
  Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below on November 15, 201312, 2014 by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities indicated:

/s/ Harvey R. Blau Chairman of the Board
Harvey R. Blau  
/s/ Ronald J. Kramer Chief Executive Officer
Ronald J. Kramer (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Douglas J. Wetmore Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Douglas J. Wetmore     (Principal(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ Brian G. Harris Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting
Brian G. Harris Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ Henry A. Alpert Director
Henry A. Alpert  
/s/ Bertrand M. BellDirector
Bertrand M. Bell
/s/ Blaine V. Fogg Director
Blaine V. Fogg  
/s/Bradley J. Gross Director
Bradley J. Gross  
/s/ Robert G. Harrison Director
Robert G. Harrison  
/s/ Donald J. Kutyna Director

Donald J. Kutyna

/s/ Victor Eugene RenuartDirector
Victor Eugene Renuart
/s/ Kevin F. Sullivan

Director
Kevin F. Sullivan

 

Director

/s/ Martin S. Sussman Director
Martin S. Sussman  
/s/ William H. Waldorf Director
William H. Waldorf  
/s/ Joseph J. Whalen Director
Joseph J. Whalen  


101