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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________________________________________________ 
Form 10-K
(Mark One)
þANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 20142015
OR
¨oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                      to                     
Commission file number 1-11593
______________________________________________________________  
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Ohio31-1414921
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
  
14111 Scottslawn Road,
Marysville, Ohio
43041
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
937-644-0011
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each ClassName of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Shares, without par valueNew 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  þ    No  ¨o
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    No  þ
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.    Yes  þ    No  ¨o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  þ    No  ¨o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    ¨o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filerþAccelerated filer¨o
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    No  þ
The aggregate market value of Common Shares (the only common equity of the registrant) held by non-affiliates (for this purpose, executive officers and directors of the registrant are considered affiliates) as of March 28, 201427, 2015 (the last business day of the most recently completed second quarter) was approximately $2,702,677,7432,955,960,511.
There were 60,823,56861,512,876 Common Shares of the registrant outstanding as of November 14, 2014.16, 2015.
______________________________________________________________ 
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement for the registrant’s 20152016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Such Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the registrant’s fiscal year ended September 30, 2015.


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PART I

ITEM 1.BUSINESS
Company Description and Development of the Business
The discussion below provides a brief description of the business conducted by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (“Scotts Miracle-Gro” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we” or “us”), including general developments in the Company’s business during the fiscal year ended September 30, 20142015 (“fiscal 2014”2015”). For additional information on recent business developments, see “ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We are a leading manufacturer and marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products. Our products are marketed under some of the most recognized brand names in the industry. In North America, key brands include Scotts® and Turf Builder® lawn and grass seed products; Miracle-Gro®, Nature's Care®, Scotts®, LiquafeedLiquaFeed® and Osmocote®1 gardening and landscape products; and Ortho®, Roundup®2, Home Defense® and Tomcat® branded insect control, weed control and rodent control products. In the United Kingdom, key brands include Miracle-Gro® plant fertilizers; Roundup®2, Weedol® and Pathclear® herbicides; EverGreen® lawn fertilizers; and Levington® gardening and landscape products. Other significant brands in Europe include Roundup®2, KB® and Fertiligène® in France; Roundup®2, Celaflor®, Nexa Lotte® and Substral® in Germany and Austria; and Roundup®2, ASEF®, KB® and Substral® in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. We are the exclusive agent of the Monsanto Company (“Monsanto”) for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® non-selective herbicide products within the United States and other contractually specified countries. We have a presence in similar consumer branded products in Australia, the Far East and Latin America. In addition, with our recent acquisition of General Hydroponics, Inc. (“General Hydroponics”) and Bio-Organic Solutions, Inc. (“Vermicrop”), and control of AeroGrow International, Inc. (“AeroGrow”), we are a leading producer of liquid plant food products, growing media, advanced indoor garden systems and accessories for hydroponic gardening. We also operate the Scotts LawnService® business, which provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree and shrub care and pest control services in the United States.
Our heritage is tied to the 1995 merger of The Scotts Company, whichMiracle-Gro, an Ohio corporation, traces its rootsheritage back to a company founded by O.M. Scott in Marysville, Ohio in 1868,1868. In the mid-1900s, we became widely known for the development of quality lawn fertilizers and grass seeds that led to the creation of a new industry-consumer lawn care. In the 1990s, we significantly expanded our product offering with three powerful leading brands in the U.S. home lawn and garden industry. First, in fiscal 1995, through a merger with Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc., which was formedfounded by Horace Hagedorn and Otto Stern onin Long Island, New York in 1951.1951, we acquired the Miracle-Gro brand, the industry leader in water-soluble garden plant foods. Second and third, in 1998, we acquired the Ortho brand in the United States and obtained exclusive rights to market the consumer Roundup brand within the United States and other contractually specified countries, thereby adding industry-leading weed, pest and disease control products to our portfolio. Today, we believe that Scotts®, Turf Builder®, Miracle-Gro is an Ohio corporation.
We®, Ortho® and Roundup® are dedicated to delivering strong, long-term financial results and outstanding shareholder returns by providing products of superior quality and value to enhance consumers’the most widely recognized brands in the consumer lawn and garden environments. In fiscal 2014, we advanced a number of key initiatives which focused on: (1) margin improvement and savings initiativesindustry in the United States.
Our strategy is focused on (i) growing our core business;branded business, primarily in the United States, (ii) expanding our reach into new categories and (2) investment in growth opportunities adjacent to the core business as well as expansion into the urbangeographies, and indoor consumer category. After a late start to(iii) reinventing the lawn and garden season which negatively impacted our first half results,experience through improved marketing outreach and consumer engagement as well as with new products and our initiatives came together in the second halfservices. We believe that leverage from cost of the yeargoods as well as selling, general and administrative expenses will allow operating profits to lift full year results. We also continued our long-term focus on innovation and global expansion.grow at a higher rate.
Business Segments
We divide our business into the following reportable segments:
Global Consumer
Scotts LawnService® 
This division of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by our Chief Executive Officer (the chief operating decision-maker of the Company). Financial information about these segments for each of the three fiscal years ended September 30, 2015, 2014, 2013, and 20122013 is presented in “NOTE 21. SEGMENT INFORMATION” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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1  Osmocote®Osmocote® is a registered trademark of Everris International B.V., a subsidiary of Israel Chemicals Ltd.
2  Roundup®Roundup® is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC, a company affiliated with Monsanto Company (“Monsanto”)Company.
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Principal Products and Services
Global Consumer
In our Global Consumer segment, we manufacture, market and marketsell consumer lawn and garden products in the following categories:
Lawn Care: The lawn care category is designed to help consumers obtain and enjoy the lawn they want. In the United States, products within this category include lawn fertilizer products under the Scotts® and Turf Builder® brand names; grass seed products under the Scotts®, Turf Builder®, EZ Seed®, Water Smart® and PatchMaster® brand names; and lawn-related weed, pest and disease control products primarily under the Scotts® brand name, including sub-brands such as GrubEx®. A similar range of products is marketed in Europe under a variety of brands such as EverGreen®, Fertiligène®, Substral®, Miracle-Gro® Patch Magic®, Weedol®, Pathclear®, KB® and Celaflor®. The lawn care category also includes spreaders and other durables under the Scotts® brand name, including Turf Builder® EdgeGuard® spreaders, Snap® spreaders and Handy Green®II handheld spreaders. In addition, in 2015, we will beginbegan to market outdoor cleaners under the Scotts® OxiClean®3TM3 brand name.
Gardening and Landscape: The gardening and landscape category is designed to help consumers grow and enjoy flower and vegetable gardens and beautify landscaped areas. This category also includes our recent entry into hydroponic gardening. In the United States, products within this category include a complete line of water solublewater-soluble plant foods under the Miracle-Gro® brand and sub-brands such as LiquaFeed®, continuous-release plant foods under the Miracle-Gro®, Scotts® and Osmocote® brands and sub-brands of Miracle-Gro® such as Shake ‘N Feed®; potting mixes and garden soils under the Miracle-Gro®, Scotts®, Hyponex®, Earthgro® and SuperSoil® brand names; mulch and decorative groundcover products under the Scotts® brand, including the sub-brands Nature Scapes®, Earthgro® and Hyponex by Scotts®; landscape weed prevention products under the Ortho® brand; plant-related pest and disease control products under the Ortho® brand; organic garden products under the Miracle-Gro® Organic Choice®, Nature's Care®, Scotts® and, Whitney Farms® and EcoScraps®brand names; and live goods and seeding solutions under the Miracle-Gro® brand and Gro-ables® sub-brand.sub-brand; and hydroponic gardening products under the General Hydroponics® and AeroGarden® brand names. Internationally, similar products are marketed under the Miracle-Gro®, Fertiligène®, Substral®, KB®, Celaflor®, ASEF®, Scotts®, Scotts EcoSense®, Naturen®, and Miracle-Gro® Organic Choice®, and Fafard® brand names.
Controls: The controls category is designed to help consumers protect their homes from pests and maintain external home areas. In the United States, insect control products are marketed under the Ortho® brand name, including Ortho Max®, Home Defense Max® and Bug B Gon Max® sub-brands; rodent control products are marketed under the Tomcat® and Ortho® brands; selective weed control products are marketed under the Ortho® Weed B Gon® sub-brand; and non-selective weed control products are marketed under the Roundup® and Groundclear® brand names. Internationally, products within this category are marketed under the Nexa Lotte®, Fertiligène®, KB®, Home Defence®, Home Defense®, Weedol®, Pathclear® and Roundup® brands.
Since 1999,1998, we have served as Monsanto’sMonsanto's exclusive agent for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® products in the consumer lawn and garden market within the United States and other specified countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. In 2015, the territories were expanded to include all countries other than Japan and those subject to a comprehensive U.S. trade embargo or certain other embargoes and trade restrictions. Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement”) between the Company and Monsanto, we are jointly responsible with Monsanto for developing global consumer and trade marketing programs for consumer Roundup®. We have responsibility forprovide manufacturing conversion services (in North America), distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support for consumer Roundup®. We also entered into a lawn and garden brand extension agreement during 2015, providing us the ability to extend the Roundup® brand into other categories of lawn and garden beyond non-selective weed control globally. Monsanto continues to own the consumer Roundup® business and provides significant oversight of the brand. In addition, Monsanto continues to own and operate the agricultural Roundup® business. For additional details regarding the Marketing Agreement, see “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS — If Monsanto were to terminateIn the event of termination of the Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup®products, we would lose a substantial source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and “NOTE 6. MARKETING AGREEMENT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



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3OxiCleanTM is a registered trademark of Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

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Scotts LawnService® 
The Scotts LawnService® segment provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree and shrub care and pest control services in the United States through periodic applications of fertilizer and control products. As of September 30, 2014,2015, Scotts LawnService® had 8488 Company-operated locations as well as 9594 locations operated by independent franchisees. Also, through our 2014 acquisition of Action Pest Control Inc. (“Action Pest”), we operate and provide residential pest control services in the Midwest. As of September 30, 2015, we operated seven Action Pest locations.
Acquisitions and Divestitures
On May 15, 2015, we amended our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto and entered into a lawn and garden brand extension agreement, and a commercialization and technology agreement with Monsanto. We paid Monsanto $300.0 million in consideration for these agreements on August 14, 2015, using borrowings under our credit facility. These agreements provide us with the following significant rights:
The ability to extend the Roundup® brand into other categories of lawn and garden beyond non-selective weed control globally;
The opportunity to introduce the consumer Roundup® brand into territories not included in the original Marketing Agreement, including China and Latin America. Only Japan and countries with U.S. trade embargoes are excluded from the Marketing Agreement;
The opportunity to propose changes to product formulations if deemed necessary to grow and/or protect the Roundup® brand;
A right of first offer and a right of last look in the event Monsanto were to sell the consumer Roundup® business and a credit to the purchase price in an amount equal to the then applicable termination fee in the event we make a bid in connection with such a sale;
A “first look” related to Monsanto’s innovation pipeline. Scotts Miracle-Gro would be provided with access to new technology and products that may be commercialized in the residential lawn and garden marketplace;
The enhancements of our rights in connection with the termination of the Marketing Agreement, including increasing the termination fee payable thereunder, eliminating certain of Monsanto’s termination rights and delaying the effectiveness of a termination in connection with a change of control of Monsanto or a sale of the consumer Roundup® business for five years after the notice of termination; and
The expanded ability for us to transfer, and thereby monetize, our rights as marketing agent to a third party (1) with respect to (a) the North America territories and (b) one or more other included markets for up to three other assignments and (2) in connection with a change of control of Scotts Miracle-Gro.
On March 30, 2015, the Company acquired the assets of General Hydroponics and Vermicrop for $120.0 million and $15.0 million, respectively. The Vermicrop purchase price was paid in common shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro (“Common Shares”) based on the average share price at the time of payment. This transaction provides the Company's Global Consumer segment with an additional entry in the indoor and urban gardening category, which is a part of the Global Consumer segment's long-term growth strategy. General Hydroponics and Vermicrop are leading producers of liquid plant food products, growing media and accessories for hydroponic gardening.
During fiscal 2015, we completed four acquisitions of growing media operations within the Global Consumer segment for an aggregate estimated purchase price of $40.2 million. These acquisitions expand the Company's growing media operations and distribution capabilities within its Global Consumer segment.
On October 16, 2014, Scotts LawnService® entered into a definitive agreement to acquirecompleted its acquisition of the assets of Action Pest, Control, Inc. (“Action Pest”), a residential and commercial pest control provider in the Midwest.


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3OxiClean® is a registered trademark of Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

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AcquisitionsMidwest, for $21.7 million. Action Pest provides residential and Divestitures
On October 14, 2013, we acquired the Tomcat® consumer rodentcommercial pest control business from Bell Laboratories, Inc., located in Madison, Wisconsin, for $60.0 million in an all-cash transaction. The acquisition included the Tomcat® brand, as well as a long-term partnershipservices to bring innovative technologies to the consumer rodent control market. Tomcat® consumer products are sold at home centershomeowners and mass retailers, as well as grocery, drug and general merchandise stores across the United States and Canada, in addition to Europe and Australia.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we obtained control of the operations of AeroGrow International, Inc. (“AeroGrow”) through our increased involvement, influence, and working capital loan of $4.5 million provided in July 2014. AeroGrow is a developer, marketer, direct-seller, and wholesaler of advanced indoor garden systems designed for consumer use in gardening, cooking, healthy eating, and home and office décor markets. AeroGrow operates primarilybusinesses in the United States and Canada, as well as select countries in Europe, Asia and Australia.
DuringMidwest. This transaction provides the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we also completedCompany with an acquisition ofentry into the U.K. based Solus Garden and Leisure Limited (“Solus”) within our Global Consumer segment for $7.4 million. Solus is a supplier of garden and leisure products, offering a diverse mix of brands.pest control business.
On September 30, 2014, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Scotts Canada Ltd., acquired Fafard & Brothers Ltd. (“Fafard”) for $59.8 million. In continuous operation since 1940 and based in Saint-Bonaventure, Quebec, Canada, Fafard is a producer of peat moss and growing media products for consumer and professional markets including peat-based and bark-based mixes, composts and premium soils. Fafard serves customers primarily across Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick.
During the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014 (“fiscal 2014”), as a reflection of our increased control of the operations of AeroGrow gained through a working capital loan made by the Company, we consolidated AeroGrow’s financial results into that of the Company. AeroGrow is a developer, marketer, direct-seller, and wholesaler of advanced indoor garden

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systems designed for consumer use in gardening, and home and office décor markets. AeroGrow operates primarily in the United States and Canada, as well as select countries in Europe, Asia and Australia.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we also completed an acquisition of certain assets of the U.K. based Solus Garden and Leisure Limited (“Solus”) within our Global Consumer segment for $7.4 million. Solus is a supplier of garden and leisure products, offering a diverse mix of brands.
On October 16, 2014, our Scotts LawnService14, 2013, we acquired the Tomcat® consumer rodent control business entered intofrom Bell Laboratories, Inc., located in Madison, Wisconsin, for $60.0 million in an all-cash transaction. The acquisition included the Tomcat® brand and other intellectual property, as well as a definitive agreementlong-term partnership to acquirebring innovative technologies to the assets of Action Pest, a residentialconsumer rodent control market. Tomcat® consumer products are sold at home centers and commercial pest control providermass retailers, as well as grocery, drug and general merchandise stores across the United States and Canada, as well as in the Midwest for $22.7 million. The transaction, which is expected to close by January 2015, would represent our first acquisition of a home pest control business.Europe and Australia.
In addition, over the past five years we have completed several smaller acquisitions within our controls, growing media and Scotts LawnService® business.businesses.
During the past five years, we have completed several divestitures including the wind down of our Smith & Hawken business completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 and the February 28, 2011 sale of our Global Professional (“Global Pro”) business to Israel Chemicals Ltd. (“ICL”) for $270$270.0 million. In the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 (“fiscal 2012”), we completed the wind down of our professional grass seed business. In the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we completed the sale of our wild bird food business in the United States and Canada for $4.1 million in cash and an estimated $1.0 million in future earn-out payments. We have classified our results of operations for all periods presented in this Annual Report ofon Form 10-K to reflect these businesses as discontinued operations during the applicable periods. See “NOTE 2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.
Principal Markets and Methods of Distribution
We sell our consumer products primarily to home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers, and food and drug stores, and indoor gardening and hydroponic stores through both a direct sales force and our network of brokers and distributors. In addition, during fiscal 2014,2015, we employed approximately 2,2002,500 full-time and seasonal in-store associates within the United States to help our retail partners merchandise their lawn and garden departments directly to consumers of our products.
The majority of shipments to customers are made via common carriers or through distributors in the United States and through a network of public warehouses and distributors in Europe. We primarily utilize third parties to manage the key distribution centers for our Global Consumer business in North America, which are strategically located across the United States and Canada. The primary distribution centers for our Global Consumer business internationally are located in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Austria and Australia and are also managed by third-party logistics providers. Growing media products are generally shipped direct-to-store without passing through a distribution center.
Raw Materials
We purchase raw materials for our products from various sources. We are subject to market risk as a result of the fluctuating prices of raw materials such as urea and other fertilizer inputs, resins, diesel, gasoline, natural gas, sphagnum peat, bark and grass seed. Our objectives surrounding the procurement of these materials are to ensure continuous supply, minimize costs and improve predictability. We seek to achieve these objectives through negotiation of contracts with favorable terms directly with vendors. When appropriate, we commit to purchase a certain percentage of our needs in advance of the season to secure pre-determined

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prices. We also hedge certain commodities, particularly diesel, gasoline and urea, to improve cost predictability and control costs.control. Sufficient raw materials were available during fiscal 2014.2015.
Trademarks, Patents and Licenses
We consider our trademarks, patents and licenses to be key competitive advantages. We pursue a vigorous trademark protection strategy consisting of registration, renewal and maintenance of key trademarks and proactive monitoring and enforcement activities to protect against infringement. The Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, Ortho®, Scotts LawnService®, Tomcat®, Hyponex®, Earthgro®, General Hydroponics® and EarthgroVermicrop® brand names and logos, as well as a number of product trademarks, including Turf Builder®, EZ Seed®, Snap®, Organic Choice®, Nature's Care®, Home Defense Max®, Nature Scapes® and Weed B Gon Max®, are registered in the United States and/or internationally and are considered material to our business.
In addition, we actively develop and maintain an extensive portfolio of utility and design patents covering subject matters such as fertilizer, chemical and growing media compositions and processes; grass seed varieties; and mechanical dispensing devices such as applicators, spreaders and sprayers. Our utility patents provide protection generally extending to 20 years from the date

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of filing, and many of our patents will continue well into the next decade. We also hold exclusive and non-exclusive patent licenses and supply arrangements, permitting the use and sale of additional patented fertilizers, pesticides and mechanical devices. Although our portfolio of patents and patent licenses is important to our success, no single patent or group of related patents is considered significant to either of our business segments or the business as a whole.
Seasonality and Backlog
Our business is highly seasonal, with more than 75% of our annual net sales occurring in our second and third fiscal quarters combined. Our annual sales are further concentrated in our second and third fiscal quarters by retailers who rely on our ability to deliver products closer to when consumers buy our products, thereby reducing retailers’ pre-season inventories.
We anticipate significant orders for the upcoming spring season will start to be received late in the winter and continue through the spring season. Historically, substantially all orders have been received and shipped within the same fiscal year with minimal carryover of open orders at the end of the fiscal year.
Significant Customers
Approximately 89.8% ofWe sell our worldwide net sales in fiscal 2014 were made by our Global Consumer segment.consumer products primarily to home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers, food and drug stores, and indoor gardening and hydroponic stores. Our three largest customers are Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart, which are reported within the Global Consumer segment and are the only customers that individually represent more than 10% of reported consolidated net sales. Approximately 68%For additional details regarding significant customers, see “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS — Because of the concentration of our Global Consumer segment net sales in fiscal 2014 were made to Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart. We face strong competition fora small number of retail customers, the business of these significant customers. The loss of anyone or more of, these customers or a substantial decreasesignificant reduction in the volume or profitability oforders from, our business with any of thesetop customers could have a material effect onadversely affect our financial condition, resultsresults” of operations or cash flows.this Annual Report on Form 10-K and “NOTE 19.  CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Competitive Marketplace
The markets in which we sell our products are highly competitive. In the United StatesU.S. lawn and garden and pest control markets, our products compete against private-label as well as branded products. Primary competitors include Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc., Bayer AG, Central Garden & Pet Company, Enforcer Products, Inc., Kellogg Garden Products, Oldcastle Retail, Inc. and Lebanon Seaboard Corporation. In addition, we face competition from regional competitors who compete primarily on the basis of price for commodity growing media products.products including private label brands.
Internationally, we face strong competition in the lawn and garden market, particularly in Europe. Our competitors in the European Union include Bayer AG, Compo AcquiCo SARL, Bayer AG, Westland Horticulture Ltd and a variety of local companies.companies including private label brands.
We have the second largest market share position in the fragmented U.S. lawn care service market. We compete against TruGreen®, which has a substantially larger share of this market than Scotts LawnService®, as well as numerous regional and local lawn care service operations and national and regional franchisors.
Research and Development
We continually invest in research and development, both in the laboratory and at the consumer level, to improve our products, manufacturing processes, packaging and delivery systems. Spending on research and development was $46.8 million, $48.4 million and $46.4 million and $50.1 millionin fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, and fiscal 2012, respectively, including product registration costs of $13.1 million, $12.6 million$12.4 million and $14.012.4 million, respectively. In addition to the benefits of our own research and development, we actively seek ways to leverage the research and development activities of our suppliers and other business partners.

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Regulatory Considerations
Local, state, federal and foreign laws and regulations affect the manufacture, sale and application of our products in several ways. For example, in the United States, all products containing pesticides must comply with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act of 1947, as amended (“FIFRA”), and be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the “U.S. EPA”) and similar state agencies before they can be sold or distributed. Fertilizer and growing media products are subject to state and foreign labeling regulations. Our manufacturing operations are subjectIn addition to waste, water and air quality permitting and other regulatory requirements ofthe regulations already described, federal, state and foreign agencies.agencies regulate the disposal, transport, handling and storage of waste, remediation of contaminated sites, air and water discharges from our facilities, and workplace health and safety. Our grass seed products are regulated by the Federal Seed Act and various state regulations. Most states require our Scotts LawnService® business locations and/or technicians to comply with strict licensing requirements prior to applying many of our products. The failure to comply with any of these laws or regulations could have an adverse effect on our business.

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In addition, the use of certain pesticide and fertilizer products is regulated by various local, state, federal and foreign environmental and public health agencies. These regulations may include requirements that only certified or professional users apply the product or that certain products be used only on certain types of locations (such as “not for use on sod farms or golf courses”), may require users to post notices on properties to which products have been or will be applied, may require notification to individuals in the vicinity that products will be applied in the future or may ban the use of certain ingredients.
State, federal and foreign authorities generally require growing media facilities to obtain permits (sometimes on an annual basis) in order to harvest peat and to discharge storm water run-off or water pumped from peat deposits. The permits typically specify the condition in which the property must be left after the peat is fully harvested, with the residual use typically being natural wetland habitats combined with open water areas. We are generally required by these permits to limit our harvesting and to restore the property consistent with the intended residual use. In some locations, these facilities have been required to create water retention ponds to control the sediment content of discharged water.
For more information regarding how compliance with federal,local, state, localfederal and foreign laws and regulations may affect us, see “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS — Compliance with environmental and other public health regulations or changes in such regulations or regulatory enforcement priorities could increase our costs of doing business or limit our ability to market all of our products” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Regulatory Matters
We are subject to various environmental proceedings, the majority of which are for site remediation. At September 30, 2014, $5.42015, $5.6 million was accrued for such environmental matters. During fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, and fiscal 2012, we expensed $0.6 million, $3.1 million $0.4 million and $0.8$0.4 million, respectively, for such environmental matters. We had no material capital expenditures during the last three fiscal years related to environmental or regulatory matters.
Employees
As of September 30, 2014,2015, we employed approximately 6,7007,900 employees. During peak sales and production periods, we employ approximately 8,5508,900 employees, including seasonal and temporary labor.
Financial Information About Geographic Areas
For certain information concerning our international revenues and long-lived assets, see “NOTE 21. SEGMENT INFORMATION” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
General Information
We maintain a website at http://investor.scotts.com (this uniform resource locator, or URL, is an inactive textual reference only and is not intended to incorporate our website into this Annual Report on Form 10-K). We file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and make available, free of charge, on or through our website, our annual reportsAnnual Reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reportsQuarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, current reportsCurrent Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as well as our proxy and information statements, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. The SEC maintains a website that contains electronic filings by Scotts Miracle-Gro and other issuers at www.sec.gov. In addition, the public may read and copy any materials Scotts Miracle-Gro files with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.


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ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the exhibits hereto and the information incorporated by reference herein, as well as our 20142015 Annual Report to Shareholders (our “2014“2015 Annual Report”), contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Other than statements of historical fact, information regarding activities, events and developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, including, but not limited to, information relating to our future growth and profitability targets and strategies designed to increase total shareholder value, are forward-looking statements based on management’s estimates, assumptions and projections. Forward-looking statements also include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our future economic and financial condition and results of operations, the plans and objectives of management and our assumptions regarding our performance and such plans and objectives, as well as the amount and timing of repurchases of the common sharesour Common Shares or other uses of Scotts Miracle-Gro (the “Common Shares”).cash flows. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified through the use of words such as “guidance,” “outlook,” “projected,” “believe,” “target,” “predict,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “strategy,” “may,” “goal,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “likely,” “will,” “should” and other similar words and variations.
Forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our 20142015 Annual Report are predictions only and actual results could differ materially from management’s expectations due to a variety of factors, including those described below. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons working on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by such risk factors.
The forward-looking statements that we make in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our 20142015 Annual Report are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events and speak only as of their dates. We disclaim any obligation to update developments of these risk factors or to announce publicly any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements that we make, or to make corrections to reflect future events or developments, except as required by the federal securities laws.
Compliance with environmental and other public health regulations or changes in such regulations or regulatory enforcement priorities could increase our costs of doing business or limit our ability to market all of our products.
Local, state, federal and foreign laws and regulations relating to environmental matters affect us in several ways. In the United States, all products containing pesticides must comply with FIFRA and be registered with the U.S. EPA and similar state agencies before they can be sold or distributed. The inability to obtain or maintain such compliance, or the cancellation of any such registration, could have an adverse effect on our business, the severity of which would depend on such matters as the products involved, whether another product could be substituted and whether our competitors were similarly affected. We attempt to anticipate regulatory developments and maintain registrations of, and access to, substitute active ingredients, but there can be no assurance that we will be able to avoid or reduce these risks. In the European Union (the “EU”), the European Parliament has adopted various forms of regulation which may substantially restrict or eliminate our ability to market and sell certain of our consumer pesticide products in their current form in the EU. In addition, in Canada, regulations have been adopted by several provinces that substantially restrict our ability to market and sell certain of our consumer pesticide products.
Under the Food Quality Protection Act, enacted by the U.S. Congress in 1996, food-use pesticides are evaluated to determine whether there is reasonable certainty that no harm will result from the cumulative effects of pesticide exposures. Under this Act, the U.S. EPA is evaluating the cumulative and aggregate risks from dietary and non-dietary exposures to pesticides. The pesticides in our products, certain of which may be used on crops processed into various food products, are typically manufactured by independent third parties and continue to be evaluated by the U.S. EPA as part of this exposure risk assessment. The U.S. EPA or the third-party registrant may decide that a pesticide we use in our products will be limited or made unavailable to us. We cannot predict the outcome or the severity of the effect of continuing evaluations.
In addition, the use of certain pesticide and fertilizer products is regulated by various local, state, federal and foreign environmental and public health agencies. These regulations may include requirements that only certified or professional users apply the product or that certain products be used only on certain types of locations, may require users to post notices on properties to which products have been or will be applied, may require notification to individuals in the vicinity that products will be applied in the future or may ban the use of certain ingredients. Most states require our Scotts LawnService® business locations and/or technicians to comply with strict licensing requirements prior to applying many of our products. Even if we are able to comply with all such regulations and obtain all necessary registrations and licenses, we cannot provide assurance that our products, particularly pesticide products, will not cause injury to the environment or to people under all circumstances. The costs of compliance, remediation or products liability have adversely affected operating results in the past and could materially adversely affect future quarterly or annual operating results.

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TheOur products and operations may be subject to increased regulatory and environmental scrutiny in jurisdictions in which we do business. For example, we are subject to regulations relating to our harvesting of peat for our growing media business which has come under increasing regulatory and environmental scrutiny. In the United States, state regulations frequently require us to limit our harvesting and to restore the property to an agreed-upon condition. In some locations, we have been required to create water retention ponds to control the sediment content of discharged water. In Canada and the United Kingdom, our peat extraction efforts are also the subject of regulation.
In addition to the regulations already described, local, state, federal and foreign agencies regulate the disposal, transport, handling and storage of waste, remediation of contaminated sites, air and water discharges from our facilities, and workplace health and safety.
Under certain environmental laws, we may be liable for the costs of investigation and remediation of the presence of certain regulated materials, as well as related costs of investigation and remediation of damage to natural resources, at various properties, including our current and former properties as well as offsite waste handling or disposal sites that we have used. Liability may be imposed upon us without regard to whether we knew of or caused the presence of such materials and, under certain circumstances, on a joint and several basis. There can be no assurances that the presence of such regulated materials at any such locations, or locations that we may acquire in the future, will not result in liability to us under such laws or expose us to third-party actions such as tort suits based on alleged conduct or environmental conditions.
The adequacy of our current non-FIFRA compliance-related environmental reserves and future provisions depends upon our operating in substantial compliance with applicable environmental and public health laws and regulations, as well as the assumptions that we have both identified all of the significant sites that must be remediated and that there are no significant conditions of potential contamination that are unknown to us. A significant change in the facts and circumstances surrounding these assumptions or in current enforcement policies or requirements, or a finding that we are not in substantial compliance with applicable environmental and public health laws and regulations, could have a material adverse effect on future environmental capital expenditures and other environmental expenses, as well as our financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows.
Damage to our reputation could have an adverse effect on our business.
Maintaining our strong reputation with both consumers and our retail customers is a key component in our success. Product recalls, our inability to ship, sell or transport affected products and governmental investigations may harm our reputation and acceptance of our products by consumers and our retail customers, which may materially and adversely affect our business operations, decrease sales and increase costs.
In addition, perceptions that the products we produce and market are not safe could adversely affect us and contribute to the risk we will be subjected to legal action. We manufacture and market a variety of products, such as fertilizers, growing media, herbicides and pesticides. On occasion, allegations are made that some of our products have failed to perform up to expectations or have caused damage or injury to individuals or property. Based on reports of contamination at a third-party supplier’s vermiculite mine, the public may perceive that some of our products manufactured in the past using vermiculite are or may be contaminated. Public perception that our products are not safe, whether justified or not, could impair our reputation, involve us in litigation, damage our brand names and have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our marketing activities may not be successful.
We invest substantial resources in advertising, consumer promotions and other marketing activities in order to maintain, extend and expand our brand image. There can be no assurances that our marketing strategies will be effective or that the amount we invest in advertising activities will result in a corresponding increase in sales of our products. If our marketing initiatives are not successful, we will have incurred significant expenses without the benefit of higher revenues.
Our success depends upon the retention and availability of key personnel and the effective succession of senior management.
Our success largely depends on the performance of our management team and other key personnel. Our future operations could be harmed if we are unable to attract and retain talented, highly qualified senior executives and other key personnel. In addition, if we are unable to effectively provide for the succession of senior management, including our chief executive officer, our business, prospects, results of operations, financial condition orand cash flows may be materially adversely affected.
Disruptions in availability or increases in the prices of raw materials or fuel could adversely affect our results of operations.
We source many of our commodities and other raw materials on a global basis. The general availability and price of those raw materials can be affected by numerous forces beyond our control, including political instability, trade restrictions and other government regulations, duties and tariffs, price controls, changes in currency exchange rates and weather.

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A significant disruption in the availability of any of our key raw materials could negatively impact our business. In addition, increases in the prices of key commodities and other raw materials could adversely affect our ability to manage our cost structure.

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Market conditions may limit our ability to raise selling prices to offset increases in our raw material costs. Our proprietary technologies can limit our ability to locate or utilize alternative inputs for certain products. For certain inputs, new sources of supply may have to be qualified under regulatory standards, which can require additional investment and delay bringing a product to market.
We utilize hedge agreements periodically to fix the prices of a portion of our urea and fuel needs. The hedge agreements are designed to mitigate the earnings and cash flow fluctuations associated with the costs of urea and fuel. In periods of declining urea and fuel prices, utilizing hedge agreements may effectively increase our expenditures for these raw materials.
Our hedging arrangements expose us to certain counterparty risks.
In addition to commodity hedge agreements, we utilize interest rate swap agreements as a means to hedge our variable interest rate exposure on debt instruments as well as foreign currency forward contracts to manage the exchange rate risk associated with certain intercompany loans with foreign subsidiaries. Utilizing these hedge agreements exposes us to certain counterparty risks. The failure of one or more of these counterparties to fulfill their obligations under the hedge agreements, whether as a result of weakening financial stability or otherwise, could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Economic conditions could adversely affect our business.
Uncertain global economic conditions could adversely affect our business. Negative global economic trends, such as decreased consumer and business spending, high unemployment levels, reduced rates of home ownership and housing starts, high foreclosure rates and declining consumer and business confidence, pose challenges to our business and could result in declining revenues, profitability and cash flow. Although we continue to devote significant resources to support our brands, unfavorable economic conditions may negatively affect consumer demand for our products. Consumers may reduce discretionary spending during periods of economic uncertainty, which could reduce sales volumes of our products or result in a shift in our product mix from higher margin to lower margin products.
The highly competitive nature of our markets could adversely affect our ability to maintain or grow revenues.
Each of our operating segments participates in markets that are highly competitive. Our products compete against national and regional products and private label products produced by various suppliers. Many of our competitors sell their products at prices lower than ours. Our most price sensitive customers may trade down to lower priced products during challenging economic times or if current economic conditions worsen. We compete primarily on the basis of product innovation, product quality, product performance, value, brand strength, supply chain competency, field sales support, in-store sales support, the strength of our relationships with major retailers and advertising. Some of our competitors have significant financial resources. The strong competition that we face in all of our markets may prevent us from achieving our revenue goals, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows. Our inability to continue to develop and grow brands with leading market positions, maintain our relationships with key retailers and deliver high quality products on a reliable basis at competitive prices could have a material adverse effect on us.
We may not successfully develop new product lines and products or improve existing product lines and products or maintain our effectiveness in reaching consumers through rapidly evolving communication vehicles.
Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to improve our existing product lines and products and to develop, manufacture and market new product lines and products to meet evolving consumer needs, as well as our ability to leverage new mediums such as digital media and social networks to reach existing and potential consumers. We cannot be certain that we will be successful in the development, manufacturing and marketing of new product lines and products or product innovations which satisfy consumer needs or achieve market acceptance, or that we will develop and market new product lines and products or product innovations in a timely manner. If we fail to successfully develop, manufacture and market new product lines and products or develop product innovations, or if we fail to reach existing and potential consumers, our ability to maintain or grow our market share may be adversely affected, which in turn could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, the development and introduction of new product lines and products and product innovations require substantial research, development and marketing expenditures, which we may be unable to recoup if such new products or innovations do not achieve market acceptance.
Many of the products we manufacture and market contain active ingredients that are subject to regulatory approval. The need to obtain such approval could delay the launch of new products or product innovations that contain active ingredients or otherwise prevent us from developing and manufacturing certain products and product innovations, further exacerbating the risks to our business.

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Our ongoing investment in new product lines and products and technologies is inherently risky, and could disrupt our ongoing businesses.
We have invested and expect to continue to invest in new product lines, products, and technologies. Such endeavors may involve significant risks and uncertainties, including distraction of management from current operations, insufficient revenues to offset liabilities assumed and expenses associated with these new investments, inadequate return of capital on our investments, and unidentified issues not discovered in our due diligence of such strategies and offerings. Because these new ventures are inherently risky, no assurance can be given that such strategies and offerings will be successful and will not adversely affect our reputation, financial condition, and operating results.
Because of the concentration of our sales to a small number of retail customers, the loss of one or more of, or a significant reduction in orders from, our top customers could adversely affect our financial results.
Global Consumer net sales represented approximately 89.8%89.5% of our worldwide net sales in fiscal 2014.2015. Our top three retail customers together accounted for 68%63% of our Global Consumer segment fiscal 20142015 net sales and 55%54% of our outstanding accounts receivable as of September 30, 20142015. The loss of, or reduction in orders from, our top three retail customers, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart, or any other significant customer could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows, as could customer disputes regarding shipments, fees, merchandise condition or related matters. Our inability to collect accounts receivable from one of our major customers, or a significant deterioration in the financial condition of one of these customers, including a bankruptcy filing or a liquidation, could also have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows.
We do not have long-term sales agreements with, or other contractual assurances as to future sales to, any of our major retail customers. In addition, continued consolidation in the retail industry has resulted in an increasingly concentrated retail base, and as a result, we are significantly dependent upon key retailers whosewho have significant bargaining strength is strong.strength. To the extent such concentration continues to occur, our net sales and income from operations may be increasingly sensitive to deterioration in the financial condition of, or other adverse developments involving our relationship with, one or more of our key customers. In addition, our business may be negatively affected by changes in the policies of our retailers, such as inventory destocking, limitations on access to shelf space, price demands and other conditions.
Our reliance on third-party manufacturers could harm our business.
We rely on third-party service providers to manufacture certain of our products. This reliance generates a number of risks, including decreased control over the production process, which could lead to production delays or interruptions, and inferior product quality control. In addition, performance problems at these third-party providers could lead to cost overruns, shortages or other problems, which could increase our costs of production or result in servicedelivery delays to our customers.
If one or more of our third-party manufacturers becomes insolvent or unwilling to continue to manufacture products of acceptable quality, at acceptable costs, in a timely manner, our ability to deliver products to our retail customers could be significantly impaired. Substitute manufacturers might not be available or, if available, might be unwilling or unable to manufacture the products we need on acceptable terms. Moreover, if customer demand for our products increases, we may be unable to secure sufficient additional capacity from our current third-party manufacturers, or others, on commercially reasonable terms, or at all.
Our reliance on a limited base of suppliers may result in disruptions to our business and adversely affect our financial results.
Although we continue to implement risk-mitigation strategies for single-source suppliers, we continue to rely on a limited number of suppliers for certain of our raw materials, product components and other necessary supplies, including certain active ingredients used in our products. If we are unable to maintain supplier arrangements and relationships, if we are unable to contract with suppliers at the quantity and quality levels needed for our business, or if any of our key suppliers becomes insolvent or experiences other financial distress, we could experience disruptions in production, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows.

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A significant interruption in the operation of our or our suppliers’ facilities could impact our capacity to produce products and service our customers, which could adversely affect revenues and earnings.
Operations at our and our suppliers’ facilities are subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including fire, flooding or other natural disasters, disease outbreaks or pandemics, acts of war, terrorism, government shut-downs and work stoppages. A significant interruption in the operation of our or our suppliers’ facilities could significantly impact our capacity to produce products and service our retail customers in a timely manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our revenues, earnings and financial position. This is especially true for those products that we manufacture at a limited number of facilities, such as our fertilizer and liquid products in both the United States and Europe.
Adverse weather conditions could adversely impact financial results.
Weather conditions in North America and Europe can have a significant impact on the timing of sales in the spring selling season and overall annual sales. An abnormally wet and/or cold spring throughout North America or Europe, abnormally dry periods or droughts, and other severe weather conditions or events could adversely affect fertilizer, pesticide and insecticide sales and, therefore, our financial condition, results of operations orand cash flows.
Our indebtedness could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition.
As of September 30, 20142015, we had $784.3$1,163.3 million of debt. Our inability to meet restrictive financial and non-financial covenants associated with that debt could adversely affect our financial condition.
Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness, fund planned capital expenditures and acquisitions, pay dividends and make repurchases of our Common Shares dependswill depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. This, to some extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. We cannot ensure that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities or that future borrowings will be available to us under our credit facility in amounts sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs.
Our credit facility and the indenture governing our 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “6.625% Senior Notes”) and our 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “6.000% Senior Notes”) contain restrictive covenants and cross-default provisions. In addition, our credit facility requires us to maintain specified financial ratios. Our ability to comply with those covenants and satisfy those financial ratios can be affected by events beyond our control.control including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. A breach of any of those financial ratio covenants or other covenants could result in a default. UponIn the occurrenceevent of such an event of default, the lendersholders of such indebtedness could elect to declare all of the outstanding indebtedness immediatelyfunds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and terminate all commitments to extendunpaid interest, and could cease making further credit.loans and institute foreclosure proceedings against our assets. We cannot ensureprovide any assurance that our lendersthe holders of such indebtedness would waive a default or that we could pay the indebtedness in full if it were accelerated.
Subject to compliance with certain covenants under our credit facility and the indentureindentures governing ourthe 6.625% Senior Notes and the 6.000% Senior Notes, we may incur additional debt in the future. If we incur additional debt, the risks described above could intensify.
Changes in credit ratings issued by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations could adversely affect our cost of financing and the market price of our 6.625% Senior Notes and our 6.000% Senior Notes.
Credit rating agencies rate the 6.625% Senior Notes and the 6.000% Senior Notes, and the Company based on factors that include our operating results, actions that we take, their view of the general outlook for our industry and their view of the general outlook for the economy. Actions taken by the rating agencies can include maintaining, upgrading or downgrading the current rating or placing us on a watch list for possible future downgrading. Downgrading the credit rating of ourthe 6.625% Senior Notes, or the 6.000% Senior Notes or placing us on a watch list for possible future ratings actions coulddowngrading would likely increase our cost of financing, limit our access to the capital markets and have an adverse effect on the market price of the 6.625% Senior Notes and the 6.000% Senior Notes.
Our postretirement-related costs and funding requirements could increase as a result of volatility in the financial markets, changes in interest rates and actuarial assumptions.
We sponsor a number of defined benefit pension plans associated with our U.S. and international businesses, as well as a postretirement medical plan in the U.S. for certain retired associates and their dependents. The performance of the financial markets and changes in interest rates impact the funded status of these plans and cause volatility in our postretirement-related costs and future funding requirements. If the financial markets do not provide the expected long-term returns on invested assets, we could be required to make significant pension contributions. Additionally, changes in interest rates and legislation enacted by governmental authorities can impact the timing and amounts of contribution requirements.

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We utilize third-party actuaries to evaluate assumptions used in determining projected benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans. In the event we determine that our assumptions should be revised, such as the discount rate, the expected long-term rate or expected return on assets, our future pension and postretirement

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benefit expenses could increase or decrease. The assumptions we use may differ from actual results, which could have a significant impact on our pension and postretirement liabilities and related costs and funding requirements.
Our international operations make us susceptible to the costs and risks associated with operating internationally.
We currently operate manufacturing, sales and service facilities outside of the United States, particularly in Canada, France, the United Kingdom and Germany. In fiscal 2014,2015, sales outside of the United States accounted for 18.1%16.8% of our total net sales. Accordingly, we are subject to risks associated with operating in foreign countries, including:
fluctuations in currency exchange rates;
limitations on the remittance of dividends and other payments by foreign subsidiaries;
additional costs of compliance with local regulations;
historically, in certain countries, higher rates of inflation than in the United States;
changes in the economic conditions or consumer preferences or demand for our products in these markets;
restrictive actions by multi-national governing bodies, foreign governments or subdivisions thereof;
changes in foreign labor laws and regulations affecting our ability to hire and retain employees;
changes in U.S. and foreign laws regarding trade and investment;
less robust protection of our intellectual property under foreign laws; and
difficulty in obtaining distribution and support for our products.
In addition, our operations outside the United States are subject to the risk of new and different legal and regulatory requirements in local jurisdictions, potential difficulties in staffing and managing local operations and potentially adverse tax consequences. The costs associated with operating our international business could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition orand cash flows in the future.
Unanticipated changes in our tax provisions, the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities could affect our profitability and cash flows.
We are subject to income and other taxes in the United States federal jurisdiction and various local, state local and foreign jurisdictions. Our effective tax rate in the future could be adversely affected by changes to our operating structure, changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets (such as net operating losses and tax credits) and liabilities, changes in tax laws and the discovery of new information in the course of our tax return preparation process. In particular, the carrying value of deferred tax assets, which are predominantly related to our operations in the United States, is dependent on our ability to generate future taxable income of the appropriate character in the relevant jurisdiction.
From time to time, tax proposals are introduced or considered by the U.S. Congress or the legislative bodies in local, state local and foreign jurisdictions that could also affect our tax rate, the carrying value of our deferred tax assets, or our other tax liabilities. Our tax liabilities are also affected by the amounts we charge for inventory, services, licenses, funding and other items in intercompany transactions. We are subject to ongoing tax audits in various jurisdictions such as the current IRS examination of our federal tax return for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011. Regarding the foreign jurisdictions, an audit is currently underway in France for fiscal years 2010 through 2012. In regard to the U.S. state and local audits, the tax periods under examination are limited to fiscal years 2009 through 2012.jurisdictions. In connection with these audits (or future audits), tax authorities may disagree with our intercompany charges, cross-jurisdictional transfer pricing or other matters and assess additional taxes. We regularly assess the likely outcomes of theseour audits in order to determine the appropriateness of our tax provision. As a result, the ultimate resolution of theseour tax audits, changes in tax laws or tax rates, and the ability to utilize our deferred tax assets could materially affect our tax provision, net income and cash flows in future periods.
Our operations may be impaired if our information technology systems fail to perform adequately or if we are the subject of a data breach or cyber attack.
We rely on information technology systems in order to conduct business, including communicating with employees and our key retail customers, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, shipping products to retail customers and analyzing and reporting results of operations. While we have taken steps to ensure the security of our information technology systems, our

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systems may nevertheless be vulnerable to computer viruses, security breaches and other disruptions from unauthorized users. If our information technology systems are damaged or cease to function properly for an extended period of time, whether as a result of a significant cyber incident or otherwise, our ability to communicate internally as well as with our retail customers could be significantly impaired, which may adversely impact our business. Additionally, an operational failure or breach of security from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats could lead to the loss or disclosure of both our and our retail customers' financial, product, and other confidential information, as well as personally identifiable information about our employees or customers, result in regulatory or other legal proceedings, and have a material adverse effect on our business and reputation.
We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property and other proprietary rights that are material to our business.
Our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our rights to service marks, trademarks, tradenames and other intellectual property rights we own or license, particularly our registered brand names and issued patents. We have not sought to register every one of our marks either in the United States or in every country in which such mark is used. Furthermore, because of the differences in foreign trademark, patent and other intellectual property or proprietary rights laws, we may not receive the same protection in other countries as we would in the United States with respect to the registered brand names and issued patents we hold. If we are unable to protect our intellectual property, proprietary information and/or brand names, we could suffer a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition orand results of operations.
Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights and protect our proprietary information, or to defend against claims by third parties that our products or services infringe their intellectual property rights. Any litigation or claims brought by or against us could result in substantial costs and diversion of our resources. A successful claim of trademark, patent or other intellectual property infringement against us, or any other successful challenge to the use of our intellectual property, could subject us to damages or prevent us from providing certain products or services, or providing certain products or services under our recognized brand names, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition orand results of operations.
If Monsanto were to terminateIn the event of termination of the Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup® products, we would lose a substantial source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption.
If we were to (i) become insolvent (ii) commit a serious defaultmaterial breach, material fraud or material misconduct under the Marketing Agreement, with Monsanto for consumer Roundup® products,(iii) undergo certain events resulting in a change of control of the Company, or (iv) impermissibly assign or delegate our rights under the Marketing Agreement, Monsanto may have the right to terminate the Marketing Agreement. If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for cause, we would not be entitled to anywithout paying a termination fee. Monsanto may also be able to terminate the Marketing Agreement withinin the event of a given region, including North America, without paying uschange of control of Monsanto or a sale of the Roundup® business, but would have to pay a termination fee if unit volume sales to consumers in that region decline: (i) over a cumulative three-fiscal-year period; or (ii) by more than 5% for each of two consecutive years. Ifthe Company. In the event the Marketing Agreement was terminated for any reason,terminates, we would also lose all, or a substantial portion, of the significant source of earnings and overhead expense absorption the Marketing Agreement provides.
For additional information regarding the Marketing Agreement, see “NOTE 6. MARKETING AGREEMENT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. beneficially owns approximately 26% of our Common Shares and can significantly influence decisions that require the approval of shareholders.
Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. beneficially owned approximately 26% of our outstanding Common Shares on a fully diluted basis as of November 14, 2014.16, 2015. As a result, it has sufficient voting power to significantly influence the election of directors and the approval of other actions requiring the approval of our shareholders, including the entering into of certain business combination transactions. In addition, because of the percentage of ownership and voting concentration in Hagedorn Partnership, L.P., elections of our board of directors will generally be within the control of Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. While all of our shareholders are entitled to vote on matters submitted to our shareholders for approval, the concentration of our Common Shares and voting control presently lies with Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. As such, it would be difficult for shareholders to propose and have approved proposals not supported by Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. Hagedorn Partnership, L.P.'s interests could differ from, or be in conflict with, the interests of other shareholders.
While we have, over the past few years, increased the rate of cash dividends on, and engaged in repurchases of, our Common Shares, any future decisions to reduce or discontinue paying cash dividends to our shareholders or repurchasing our Common Shares pursuant to our previously announced repurchase program could cause the market price for our Common Shares to decline.
Our payment of quarterly cash dividends on and repurchase of our Common Shares pursuant to our stock purchase program are subject to, among other things, our financial position and results of operations, available cash and cash flow, capital requirements,

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and other factors. We have, over the past few years, increased the rate of cash dividends on, and repurchased shares of, our

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Common Shares. For example, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, we doubled the amount of our quarterly cash dividend, and our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common Shares throughyear ended September 30, 2014. In 2011 (“fiscal 2011,2011”), we increased the amount of our quarterly cash dividend by an additional 20% and our Board of Directors authorized theincreased our then current share repurchase of up toauthorization by an additional $200 million of our Common Shares through September 30, 2014. We increased the amount of our quarterly cash dividend again in fiscal 2012. In the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 (“fiscal 2013”), we increased the amount of our quarterly cash dividend by an additional 35%. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we announced a special one-time cash dividend of $2 per share on the Company's Common Shares; a new share repurchase authorization, expiring by the end of fiscal 2019, to repurchase up to $500 million of the Company’s Common Shares, which replaced the then existing authorization, which expired on September 30, 2014; and a 3% increase in the Company’s recurring quarterly cash dividend to $0.45 per share. Most recently, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we increased the amount of our quarterly cash dividend by an additional 4% to $0.47 per share.
We may further increase or decrease the rate of cash dividends on, and the amount of repurchases of, our Common Shares in the future. Any reduction or discontinuance by us of the payment of quarterly cash dividends or repurchases of our Common Shares pursuant to our current share repurchase authorization program could cause the market price of our Common Shares to decline. Moreover, in the event our payment of quarterly cash dividends on or repurchases of our Common Shares are reduced or discontinued, our failure or inability to resume paying cash dividends or repurchasing Common Shares at historical levels could result in a lower market valuation of our Common Shares.
Acquisitions, other strategic alliances and investments could result in operating difficulties, dilution, and other harmful consequences that may adversely impact our business and results of operations.
Acquisitions are an important element of our overall corporate strategy and use of capital, and these transactions could be material to our financial condition and results of operations. We expect to continue to evaluate and enter into discussions regarding a wide array of potential strategic transactions. The process of integrating an acquired company, business, or product has created, and will continue to create, unforeseen operating difficulties and expenditures. The areas where we face risks include:

Diversion of management time and focus from operating our business to acquisition integration challenges.

Failure to successfully further develop the acquired business or product lines.

Implementation or remediation of controls, procedures and policies at the acquired company.

Integration of the acquired company’s accounting, human resource,resources and other administrative systems, and coordination of product, engineering and sales and marketing functions.

Transition of operations, users and customers onto our existing platforms.

Reliance on the expertise of our strategic partners with respect to market development, sales, local regulatory compliance and other operational matters.

Failure to obtain required approvals on a timely basis, if at all, from governmental authorities, or conditions placed upon approval, under competition and antitrust laws which could, among other things, delay or prevent us from completing a transaction, or otherwise restrict our ability to realize the expected financial or strategic goals of an acquisition.

In the case of foreign acquisitions, the need to integrate operations across different cultures and languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political and regulatory risks associated with specific countries.

Cultural challenges associated with integrating employees from the acquired company into our organization, and retention of employees from the businesses we acquire.

Liability for or reputational harm from activities of the acquired company before the acquisition or from our strategic partners, including patent and trademark infringement claims, violations of laws, commercial disputes, tax liabilities and other known and unknown liabilities.

Litigation or other claims in connection with the acquired company, including claims from terminated employees, customers, former shareholders or other third parties.

15




Our failure to address these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our past or future acquisitions and investments or strategic alliances could cause us to fail to realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisitions, investments or investments,alliances, incur unanticipated liabilities, and harm our business generally.
Our acquisitions could also result in dilutive issuances of our equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses, or impairment of goodwill and purchased long-lived assets, and restructuring charges, any of which could harm our financial condition or results.results of operations and cash flows. Also, the anticipated benefits of many of our acquisitions may not materialize.

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A failure to dispose of assets or businesses in a timely manner may cause the results of the Company to suffer.
The Company evaluates as necessary the potential disposition of assets and businesses that may no longer help it meet its objectives. When the Company decides to sell assets or a business, it may encounter difficulty in finding buyers or alternative exit strategies on acceptable terms in a timely manner, which could delay the accomplishment of its strategic objectives. Alternatively, the Company may dispose of a business at a price or on terms that are less than it had anticipated. After reaching an agreement with a buyer or seller for the disposition of a business, the Company is subject to satisfaction of pre-closing conditions, which may prevent the Company from completing the transaction. Dispositions may also involve continued financial involvement in the divested business, such as through continuing equity ownership, guarantees, indemnities or other financial obligations. Under these arrangements, performance by the divested businesses or other conditions outside the Company’s control could affect its future financial results.
We are involved in a number of legal proceedings and, while we cannot predict the outcomes of such proceedings and other contingencies with certainty, some of these outcomes could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.operations and cash flows.
We are involved in legal proceedings and are subject to investigations, inspections, audits, inquiries and similar actions by governmental authorities, arising in the course of our business (see the discussion of Legal Proceedings in Part I, Item 3 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K).  Legal proceedings, in general, can be expensive and disruptive.  Some of these suits may purport or may be determined to be class actions and/or involve parties seeking large and/or indeterminate amounts of damages, including punitive or exemplary damages, and may remain unresolved for several years.  For example, product liability claims challenging the safety of our products may also result in a decline in sales for a particular product and could damage the reputation or the value of related brands.
From time to time, the Company is also involved in legal proceedings as a plaintiff involving contract, intellectual property and other matters.  We cannot predict with certainty the outcomes of these legal proceedings and other contingencies, and the costs incurred in litigation can be substantial, regardless of the outcome.  Substantial unanticipated verdicts, fines and rulings do sometimes occur.  As a result, we could from time to time incur judgments, enter into settlements or revise our expectations regarding the outcome of certain matters, and such developments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations in the period in which the amounts are accrued and/or our cash flows in the period in which the amounts are paid.  The outcome of some of these legal proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take, or refrain from taking, actions which could negatively affect our operations.operations and, depending on the nature of the allegations, could negatively impact our reputation.  Additionally, defending against these legal proceedings may involve significant expense and diversion of management’s attention and resources.
 

ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.

ITEM 2.PROPERTIES
Our corporate headquarters are located in Marysville, Ohio, where we own approximately 616 acres of land and lease approximately 114 acres of land. We lease a property in Ecully, France which serves as the headquarters of our European operations. In addition, we own and lease numerous industrial, commercial and office properties located in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia that support the management, manufacturing, distribution and research and development of our products and services. We believe our properties are suitable and adequate to serve the needs of our business and that our leased properties are subject to appropriate lease agreements.

16




Global Consumer. There are 4849 Company-owned properties and 6984 leased properties in our Global Consumer segment. These properties are located in the following countries:

Location Owned Leased Owned Leased
United States 34 45 35 55
United Kingdom 7 7 7 7
Canada 5 5 5 6
France 2 2 2 3
Rest of world (1)
  10  13
Total 48 69 49 84
(1) - Rest of world includes Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Germany, Mexico, and Poland
We own or lease 5768 manufacturing properties, three distribution properties and three research and development properties in the United States. We own or lease nine manufacturing properties in the United Kingdom, nine manufacturing properties in Canada, two manufacturing properties in France, two manufacturing properties in Australia, and one manufacturing property in China. We also lease threetwo distribution

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properties and own one research and development property in the United Kingdom, lease one distribution property in Mexico, lease one research and development property in Canada, and lease one research and development property in France. Most of the manufacturing properties in our Global Consumer segment, which include growing media properties and peat harvesting properties, have production lines, warehouses, offices and field processing areas.
Scotts LawnService®. The Company-operated Scotts LawnService® locations consist of 8997 leased properties located in the United States. FTwoive of these properties are not operational.

ITEM 3.   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
As noted in the discussion in “ITEM 1. BUSINESS — Regulatory Considerations — Regulatory Matters” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we are involved in several pending environmental and regulatory matters. We believe that our assessment of contingencies is reasonable and that the related reserves, in the aggregate, are adequate; however, there can be no assurance that the final resolution of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
We have been named as a defendant in a number of cases alleging injuries that the lawsuits claim resulted from exposure to asbestos-containing products, apparently based on our historic use of vermiculite in certain of our products. In many of these cases, the complaints are not specific about the plaintiffs’ contacts with us or our products. The cases vary, but complaints in these cases generally seek unspecified monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential and punitive) from multiple defendants. We believe that the claims against us are without merit and are vigorously defending against them. It is not currently possible to reasonably estimate a probable loss, if any, associated with the cases and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in our consolidated financial statements. We are reviewing agreements and policies that may provide insurance coverage or indemnity as to these claims and are pursuing coverage under some of these agreements and policies, although there can be no assurance of the results of these efforts. There can be no assurance that these cases, whether as a result of adverse outcomes or as a result of significant defense costs, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
In connection with the sale of wild bird food products that were the subject of a voluntary recall in 2008, we, along with our Chief Executive Officer, have been named as a defendantdefendants in four putative class actions filed on and after June 27, 2012, which have now been consolidated in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California as In re Morning Song Bird Food Litigation, Lead Case No. 3:12-cv-01592-JAH-RBB. The plaintiffs allege various statutory and common law claims associated with the Company's sale of wild bird food products and a plea agreement entered into in previously pending government proceedings associated with such sales. The plaintiffs allege, among other things, a purported class action on behalf of all persons and entities in the United States who purchased certain bird food products. The plaintiffs assert hundreds of millions of dollars in monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential, and restitution), punitive and treble); reimbursement, restitution, and disgorgement for benefits unjustly conferred;treble damages; injunctive and declaratory relief; pre-judgment and post-judgment interest; and costs and attorneys' fees. The Company disputes the plaintiffs' assertions and intends to vigorously defend the consolidated action. GivenAt this point in the early stages of the action,proceedings, it is not currently possible to reasonably estimate a probable loss, if any, associated with the action and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in our consolidated financial statements with respect to the action. There can be no assurance that this action, whether as a result of an adverse outcome or as a result of significant defense costs, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

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We are involved in other lawsuits and claims which arise in the normal course of our business. In our opinion, these claims individually and in the aggregate are not expected to result in a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE
Not Applicable.


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SUPPLEMENTAL ITEM.  EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The executive officers of Scotts Miracle-Gro, their positions and, as of November 14, 2014,16, 2015, their ages and years with Scotts Miracle-Gro (and its predecessors) are set forth below. 
Name Age Position(s) Held 
Years with
Company
 Age Position(s) Held 
Years with
Company
James Hagedorn 59
 Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board 27
 60
 President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board 28
Barry W. Sanders 50
 President and Chief Operating Officer 13
Thomas R. Coleman 45
 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 15
 46
 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 16
Michael C. Lukemire 56
 Executive Vice President, North American Operations 18
 57
 Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer 19
Ivan C. Smith 45
 Executive Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer 11
 46
 Executive Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer 12
Denise S. Stump

 60
 Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer 14
 61
 Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources and Chief Ethics Officer 15
Executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro and pursuant to executive severance agreements or other arrangements.
The business experience of each of the individuals listed above during at least the past five years is as follows:
Mr. Hagedorn was named Chairman of the Board of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s predecessor in January 2003 and named2003; Chief Executive Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s predecessor in May 2001.2001; and President of Scotts Miracle-Gro in October 2015. He also served as President of Scotts Miracle-Gro (or its predecessor) from November 2006 until October 2008 and from April 2000 until December 2005. Mr. Hagedorn serves on Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Board of Directors, a position he has held with Scotts Miracle-Gro (or its predecessor) since 1995. Mr. Hagedorn is the brother of Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield, a director of Scotts Miracle-Gro.
Mr. Sanders was named President of Scotts Miracle-Gro in October 2010 and named Chief Operating Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in January 2012. In these positions, Mr. Sanders oversees all business unit and operating functions at the Company. Prior to his appointment as President, Mr. Sanders had served as the Executive Vice President, Global Consumer of Scotts Miracle-Gro since June 2010. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President, North America of Scotts Miracle-Gro from October 2007 until June 2010. He served as Executive Vice President of Global Technology and Operations of Scotts Miracle-Gro from January to October 2007, where he was responsible for the Company’s supply chain and information systems, as well as research and development efforts. Before January 2007, he led the North American and global supply chain organizations as well as the North American sales force.
Mr. Coleman was named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro onin April 15, 2014. Prior to histhis appointment, as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Coleman had served as Senior Vice President, Global Finance Operations and Enterprise Performance Management Analytics for The Scotts Company LLC, (“Scotts LLC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Scotts Miracle-Gro, since January 2011. Previously, Mr. Coleman served as Senior Vice President, North America Finance of Scotts LLC from November 2007 until January 2011. Mr. Coleman also previously served as interim principal financial officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro between February 2013 and March 2013.
Mr. Lukemire was named Executive Vice President North American Operationsand Chief Operating Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in April 2014 and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Company’s core North America business.December 2014. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Lukemire had served as Executive Vice President, North American Operations of Scotts Miracle-Gro since April 2014. Previously, Mr. Lukemire served as Executive Vice President, Business Execution of Scotts Miracle-Gro sincefrom May 2013 until April 2014 and was responsible for leading the Company’s global supply chain, research and development, business transformation and environmental health and safety efforts. Previously, Mr. Lukemire served as President, U.S. Consumer Regions of Scotts Miracle-Gro from October 2011 until May 2013. Prior to October 2011, he had served as Regional President for the Southeast region since May 2009, responsible for leading the Company's business development, marketing and sales efforts in the southeastern U.S., and eventually led the entire North American sales function. Previously, Mr. Lukemire was Executive Vice President, Global Technology and Operations from June 2008 until May 2009, responsible for global supply chain, global research and development and global business information services.2009.
Mr. Smith was named Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Scotts Miracle-Gro in July 2013 and Chief Compliance Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in October 2013. Prior to July 2013, he had served as Vice President, Global Consumer Legal and Assistant General Counsel of Scotts LLC since October 2011. Mr. Smith served as Vice President, North America Legal and Assistant General Counsel from April 2009 to September 2011 and as Vice President, Litigation of Scotts LLC from October 2007 to March 2009.

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Ms. Stump was named Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources of Scotts Miracle-Gro (or its predecessor) in February 2003 and Chief Ethics Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in October 2013.




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PART II
ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
The Common Shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “SMG.” The quarterly high and low sale prices for the fiscal years ended September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014 were as follows:
 
Sale PricesSale Prices
High LowHigh Low
FISCAL 2015   
First quarter$62.88
 $54.71
Second quarter$68.99
 $60.18
Third quarter$67.40
 $59.41
Fourth quarter$66.27
 $59.10
FISCAL 2014      
First quarter$58.83
 $50.51
$58.83
 $50.51
Second quarter$59.85
 $53.21
$59.85
 $53.21
Third quarter$60.30
 $53.97
$60.30
 $53.97
Fourth quarter$59.04
 $50.97
$59.04
 $50.97
FISCAL 2013   
First quarter$44.60
 $39.64
Second quarter$47.60
 $42.64
Third quarter$50.46
 $42.01
Fourth quarter$55.99
 $47.87

On August 9, 2012, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.325 per Common Share, which was paid in September of fiscal 2012 and December, March and June of fiscal 2013. On August 6, 2013, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.4375 per Common Share, which was paid in September of fiscal 2013 and December, March and June of fiscal 2014. On August 11, 2014, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.45 per Common Share, which was paid in September of fiscal 2014.2014 and December, March and June of fiscal 2015. The Board also authorized a special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per share on the Common Shares, which was paid on September 17, 2014. On August 3, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.47 per Common Share, which was paid in September of fiscal 2015. The payment of future dividends, if any, on the Common Shares will be determined by the Board of Directors in light of conditions then existing, including the Company’s earnings, financial condition and capital requirements, restrictions in financing agreements, business conditions and other factors. The Company’sterms of the new credit facilityagreement allow the Company to make unlimited restricted payments (as defined in the new credit agreement), including increased or one-time dividend payments toand Common Share repurchases, so long as the leverage ratio resulting from the making of such restricted payments is 4.00 or less. Otherwise the Company may only make restricted payments in an aggregate of $125 million annually through fiscal 2013 and restricts future dividend payments to an aggregate of $150 million in fiscal 2014 and 2015 and $175 millionamount for fiscal 2016 and each fiscal year thereafter if our leverage ratio, after giving effectnot to anyexceed the amount set forth for such annual dividend payment, exceeds 3.00.fiscal year ($175.0 million for 2016 and 2017 and $200.0 million for 2018 and in each fiscal year thereafter). Our leverage ratio was 2.182.63 at September 30, 2014.2015. See “NOTE 10. DEBT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion regarding the restrictions on dividend payments.
As of November 14, 2014,16, 2015, there were approximately 29,00033,000 shareholders, including holders of record and our estimate of beneficial holders.

On March 30, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued 154,737 Common Shares out of its treasury shares for payment of the acquisition of Vermicrop. The Common Shares were issued in reliance on an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act as a private offering. The issuance did not involve a public offering, and was made without general solicitation or advertising. 

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The following table shows the purchases of Common Shares made by or on behalf of Scotts Miracle-Gro or any “affiliated purchaser” (as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) of Scotts Miracle-Gro for each of the three fiscal months in the quarter ended September 30, 20142015:
Period 
Total Number
of Common
Shares
Purchased(1)
 
Average Price
Paid per
Common
Share(2)
 
Total Number
of Common
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or
Programs(3)
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Common Shares
That May Yet
be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs(3)
June 29 through July 26, 2014 1
 $54.58
 
 $207,363,017
July 27 through August 23, 2014 164,821
 $57.98
 164,460
 $197,825,679
August 24 through September 30, 2014 331,766
 $57.76
 329,517
 $178,790,098
Total 496,588
 $57.84
 493,977
  
Period 
Total Number
of Common
Shares
Purchased(1)
 
Average Price
Paid per
Common
Share(2)
 
Total Number
of Common
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or
Programs(3)
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Common Shares
That May Yet
be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs(3)
June 28 through July 25, 2015 
 $
 
 $485,186,044
July 26 through August 22, 2015 1,702
 $59.26
 
 $485,186,044
August 23 through September 30, 2015 3,856
 $61.21
 
 $485,186,044
Total 5,558
 $60.61
 
  

(1)All of the Common Shares purchased during the quarter were purchased in open market transactions. The total number of Common Shares purchased during the quarter includes 2,6105,558 Common Shares purchased by the trustee of the rabbi trust established by the Company as permitted pursuant to the terms of The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan (the “ERP”). The ERP is an unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation plan which, among other things, provides eligible employees the opportunity to defer compensation above specified statutory limits applicable to The Scotts Company LLC Retirement Savings Plan and with respect to any Executive Management Incentive Pay (as defined in the ERP), Performance Award (as defined in the ERP) or other bonus awarded to such eligible employees. Pursuant to the terms of the ERP, each eligible employee has the right to elect an investment fund, including a fund consisting of Common Shares (the “Scotts Miracle-Gro Common Stock Fund”), against which amounts allocated to such employee’s account under the ERP, including employer contributions, will be benchmarked (all ERP accounts are bookkeeping accounts only and do not represent a claim against specific assets of the Company). Amounts allocated to employee accounts under the ERP represent deferred compensation obligations of the Company. The Company established the rabbi trust in order to assist the Company in discharging such deferred compensation obligations. When an eligible employee elects to benchmark some or all of the amounts allocated to such employee’s account against the Scotts Miracle-Gro Common Stock Fund, the trustee of the rabbi trust purchases the number of Common Shares equivalent to the amount so benchmarked. All Common Shares purchased by the trustee are purchased on the open market and are held in the rabbi trust until such time as they are distributed pursuant to the terms of the ERP. All assets of the rabbi trust, including any Common Shares purchased by the trustee, remain, at all times, assets of the Company, subject to the claims of its creditors. The terms of the ERP do not provide for a specified limit on the number of Common Shares that may be purchased by the trustee of the rabbi trust.

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trust established by the Company as permitted pursuant to the terms of The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan (the “ERP”). The ERP is an unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation plan which, among other things, provides eligible employees the opportunity to defer compensation above specified statutory limits applicable to The Scotts Company LLC Retirement Savings Plan and with respect to any Executive Management Incentive Pay (as defined in the ERP), Performance Award (as defined in the ERP) or other bonus awarded to such eligible employees. Pursuant to the terms of the ERP, each eligible employee has the right to elect an investment fund, including a fund consisting of Common Shares (the “Scotts Miracle-Gro Common Stock Fund”), against which amounts allocated to such employee’s account under the ERP, including employer contributions, will be benchmarked (all ERP accounts are bookkeeping accounts only and do not represent a claim against specific assets of the Company). Amounts allocated to employee accounts under the ERP represent deferred compensation obligations of the Company. The Company established the rabbi trust in order to assist the Company in discharging such deferred compensation obligations. When an eligible employee elects to benchmark some or all of the amounts allocated to such employee’s account against the Scotts Miracle-Gro Common Stock Fund, the trustee of the rabbi trust purchases the number of Common Shares equivalent to the amount so benchmarked. All Common Shares purchased by the trustee are purchased on the open market and are held in the rabbi trust until such time as they are distributed pursuant to the terms of the ERP. All assets of the rabbi trust, including any Common Shares purchased by the trustee, remain, at all times, assets of the Company, subject to the claims of its creditors. The terms of the ERP do not provide for a specified limit on the number of Common Shares that may be purchased by the trustee of the rabbi trust.
(2)The average price paid per Common Share is calculated on a settlement basis and includes commissions.
(3)On August 10, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common Shares over a four-year period through September 30, 2014. On May 5, 2011, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of Common Shares, resulting in authority to repurchase up to a total of $700 million of Common Shares through September 30, 2014. On August 11, 2014, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common Shares over a five-year period (starting November 1, 2014 through September 30, 2019). The dollar amounts in the “Approximate Dollar Value”Value of Common Shares That May Yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs” column reflect the remaining amounts that were available for repurchase under the $700$500 million authorized repurchase program, which expired on September 30, 2014.program.


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ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Five-Year Summary(1) 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 2012 2011 20102015 2014 2013 2012 2011
(In millions, except per share amounts)(In millions, except per share amounts)
OPERATING RESULTS:                  
Net sales$2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
 $2,718.1
 $2,789.8
$3,016.5
 $2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
 $2,718.1
Gross profit1,031.4
 978.2
 956.6
 1,013.8
 1,072.6
1,064.9
 1,031.4
 978.2
 956.6
 1,013.8
Income from operations314.6
 310.5
 241.2
 301.8
 372.9
294.6
 314.6
 310.5
 241.2
 301.8
Income from continuing operations165.4
 159.4
 111.6
 157.5
 206.7
158.7
 165.4
 159.4
 111.6
 157.5
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax0.8
 1.7
 (5.1) 10.4
 (2.6)
 0.8
 1.7
 (5.1) 10.4
Net income166.2
 161.1
 106.5
 167.9
 204.1
158.7
 166.2
 161.1
 106.5
 167.9
Net income attributable to controlling interest166.5
 161.1
 106.5
 167.9
 204.1
159.8
 166.5
 161.1
 106.5
 167.9
ADJUSTED OPERATING RESULTS(2):
                  
Adjusted income from operations$365.6
 $330.8
 $256.5
 $346.2
 $400.1
$386.1
 $365.6
 $330.8
 $256.5
 $346.2
Adjusted income from continuing operations206.0
 172.6
 123.3
 187.4
 225.0
218.2
 206.0
 172.6
 123.3
 187.4
Adjusted income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations206.3
 172.6
 123.3
 187.4
 225.0
219.3
 206.3
 172.6
 123.3
 187.4
FINANCIAL POSITION:                  
Working capital(3)
$390.3
 $371.2
 $566.4
 $523.9
 $381.3
$335.5
 $390.3
 $371.2
 $566.4
 $523.9
Current ratio(3)
1.7
 1.7
 2.3
 2.1
 1.3
1.5
 1.7
 1.7
 2.3
 2.1
Property, plant and equipment, net$437.0
 $422.3
 $427.4
 $394.7
 $381.3
$453.7
 $437.0
 $422.3
 $427.4
 $394.7
Total assets2,058.3
 1,937.2
 2,074.4
 2,052.2
 2,164.0
2,527.2
 2,058.3
 1,937.2
 2,074.4
 2,052.2
Total debt to total book capitalization(4)
58.6% 44.5% 56.5% 58.7% 45.2%65.2% 58.6% 44.5% 56.6% 58.7%
Total debt$784.3
 $570.5
 $782.6
 $795.0
 $631.7
$1,163.3
 $784.3
 $570.5
 $782.6
 $795.0
Total shareholders’ equity - controlling interest553.7
 710.5
 601.9
 559.8
 764.5
620.7
 553.7
 710.5
 601.9
 559.8
CASH FLOWS:                  
Cash flows from operating activities$240.9
 $342.0
 $153.4
 $122.1
 $295.9
$246.9
 $240.9
 $342.0
 $153.4
 $122.1
Investments in property, plant and equipment87.6
 60.1
 69.4
 72.7
 83.4
61.7
 87.6
 60.1
 69.4
 72.7
Investment in marketing and license agreement300.0
 
 
 
 
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired and payments on sellers notes114.8
 4.0
 7.0
 7.9
 0.6
181.7
 114.8
 4.0
 7.0
 7.9
Total cash dividends paid230.8
 87.8
 75.4
 67.9
 42.6
111.3
 230.8
 87.8
 75.4
 67.9
Total purchases of Common Shares120.0
 
 17.5
 358.7
 25.0
14.8
 120.0
 
 17.5
 358.7
PER SHARE DATA:                  
Earnings per common share from continuing operations:                  
Basic$2.69
 $2.58
 $1.83
 $2.43
 $3.12
$2.62
 $2.69
 $2.58
 $1.83
 $2.43
Diluted2.64
 2.55
 1.80
 2.38
 3.06
2.57
 2.64
 2.55
 1.80
 2.38
Adjusted diluted(2)
3.29
 2.76
 1.99
 2.84
 3.33
3.53
 3.29
 2.76
 1.99
 2.84
Dividends per common share(5)
3.763
 1.413
 1.225
 1.05
 0.625
1.820
 3.763
 1.413
 1.225
 1.050
Stock price at year-end55.00
 55.03
 43.47
 44.60
 51.73
60.82
 55.00
 55.03
 43.47
 44.60
Stock price range—High60.03
 55.99
 55.95
 60.62
 52.56
68.99
 60.30
 55.99
 55.95
 60.62
Stock price range—Low50.51
 39.64
 35.49
 39.99
 37.50
54.71
 50.51
 39.64
 35.49
 39.99
OTHER:                  
Adjusted EBITDA(6)
$412.4
 $390.5
 $302.9
 $393.0
 $440.1
$471.8
 $412.4
 $390.5
 $302.9
 $393.0
Leverage ratio(6)
2.18
 2.05
 2.93
 1.98
 2.00
2.63
 2.18
 2.05
 2.93
 1.98
Interest coverage ratio(6)
9.41
 6.59
 4.90
 7.47
 9.40
9.34
 9.41
 6.59
 4.90
 7.47
Weighted average Common Shares outstanding61.6
 61.7
 61.0
 64.7
 66.3
61.1
 61.6
 61.7
 61.0
 64.7
Common shares and dilutive potential common
shares used in diluted EPS calculation
62.7
 62.6
 62.1
 66.2
 67.6
62.2
 62.7
 62.6
 62.1
 66.2
 

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(1)
On July 8, 2009, we announced a plan to close our Smith & Hawken business. During our first quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010 (“fiscal 2010”), all Smith & Hawken stores were closed and substantially all operational activities of Smith & Hawken were discontinued. As a result, effective in our first quarter of fiscal 2010, we classified Smith & Hawken as discontinued operations in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Smith & Hawken® is a registered trademark of Target Brands, Inc. We sold the Smith & Hawken brand and certain intellectual property rights related thereto to Target Brands, Inc. on December 30, 2009, and subsequently changed the name of the subsidiary entity formerly known as Smith & Hawken, Ltd. to Teak 2, Ltd. References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to Smith & Hawken refer to the subsidiary entity, not the brand itself.
On February 28, 2011, we completed the sale of Global Pro to ICL. In conjunction with the transaction, Scotts LLC and ICL entered into several product supply agreements which are generally up to five years in duration, as well as various trademark and technology licensing agreements with varying durations. Our continuing cash inflows and outflows related to these agreements are not considered to be significant in relation to the overall cash flows of Global Pro. Furthermore, none of these agreements permit us to influence the operating or financial policies of Global Pro under the ownership of ICL. Therefore, Global Pro met the criteria for presentation as discontinued operations. As such, effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2011, we classified Global Pro as discontinued operations in accordance with GAAP.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed the wind down of our professional seed business (“Pro Seed”). As a result, effective in our fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, we classified Pro Seed as discontinued operations in accordance with GAAP.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we completed the sale of our wild bird food business. As a result, effective in our second quarter of fiscal 2014, we classified the wild bird food business as discontinued operations in accordance with GAAP.
The Selected Financial Data has been retrospectively updated to recast Smith & Hawken, Global Pro, Pro Seed, and the wild bird food business as discontinued operations for each period presented.
(2)The Five-Year Summary includes non-GAAP financial measures, as defined in Item 10(e) of SEC Regulation S-K, of adjusted income from operations, adjusted income from continuing operations, adjusted income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations and adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, which exclude costs or gains related to discrete projects or transactions. Items excluded during the five-year period ended September 30, 20142015 consisted of charges or credits relating to refinancings, impairments, restructurings, product registration and recall matters, discontinued operations, and other unusual items such as costs or gains related to discrete projects or transactions that are apart from and not indicative of the results of the operations of the business. The comparable GAAP measures are reported income from operations, reported income from continuing operations and reported diluted earnings per share from continuing operations. Our management believes that these non-GAAP measures are the most indicative of our earnings capabilities and that disclosure of these non-GAAP financial measures therefore provides useful information to investors or other users of the financial statements, such as lenders. Non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, the Company's reported results prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is presented in the following tables:


22

Table of Contents


Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 2012 2011 20102015 2014 2013 2012 2011
(In millions, except per share data)(In millions, except per share data)
Income from operations$314.6
 $310.5
 $241.2
 $301.8
 $372.9
$294.6
 $314.6
 $310.5
 $241.2
 $301.8
Impairment, restructuring and other charges51.0
 20.3
 7.1
 29.8
 18.5
Impairment, restructuring and other91.5
 51.0
 20.3
 7.1
 29.8
Product registration and recall matters
 
 8.2
 14.6
 8.7

 
 
 8.2
 14.6
Adjusted income from operations$365.6
 $330.8
 $256.5
 $346.2
 $400.1
$386.1
 $365.6
 $330.8
 $256.5
 $346.2
Income from continuing operations$165.4
 $159.4
 $111.6
 $157.5
 $206.7
$158.7
 $165.4
 $159.4
 $111.6
 $157.5
Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net of tax33.6
 13.2
 4.3
 17.9
 12.7
Impairment, restructuring and other, net of tax59.5
 33.6
 13.2
 4.3
 17.9
Costs related to refinancing, net of tax7.0
 
 
 
 

 7.0
 
 
 
Product registration and recall matters, net of tax
 
 7.4
 12.0
 5.6

 
 
 7.4
 12.0
Adjusted income from continuing operations$206.0
 $172.6
 $123.3
 $187.4
 $225.0
$218.2
 $206.0
 $172.6
 $123.3
 $187.4
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest(7)
0.3
 
 
 
 
1.1
 0.3
 
 
 
Adjusted income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations$206.3
 $172.6
 $123.3
 $187.4
 $225.0
$219.3
 $206.3
 $172.6
 $123.3
 $187.4
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations$2.64
 $2.55
 $1.80
 $2.38
 $3.06
$2.57
 $2.64
 $2.55
 $1.80
 $2.38
Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net of tax0.54
 0.21
 0.07
 0.27
 0.19
Impairment, restructuring and other, net of tax0.96
 0.54
 0.21
 0.07
 0.27
Costs related to refinancing, net of tax0.11
 
 
 
 

 0.11
 
 
 
Product registration and recall matters, net of tax
 
 0.12
 0.19
 0.08

 
 
 0.12
 0.19
Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations$3.29
 $2.76
 $1.99
 $2.84
 $3.33
$3.53
 $3.29
 $2.76
 $1.99
 $2.84

(3)Working capital is calculated as current assets minus current liabilities. Current ratio is calculated as current assets divided by current liabilities.
(4)The total debt to total book capitalization percentage is calculated by dividing total debt by total debt plus total shareholders’ equity - controlling interest.
(5)Scotts Miracle-Gro began payingpays a quarterly dividend to the holders of $0.125 perits Common Share in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005. On August 10, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.25 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010.Shares. On August 8, 2011, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.30 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011. On August 9, 2012, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.325 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. On August 6, 2013, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.4375 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013. On August 11, 2014, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had (i) further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.45 per Common Share, which was paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 and (ii) a special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per Common Share, which was paid on September 17, 2014. On August 3, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.47 per Common Share, which was paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.
(6)
We view our credit facility as material to our ability to fund operations, particularly in light of our seasonality. Please refer to “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS — Our indebtedness could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a more complete discussion of the risks associated with our debt and our credit facility and the restrictive covenants therein. Our ability to generate cash flows sufficient to cover our debt service costs is essential to our ability to maintain our borrowing capacity. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA provides additional information for determining our ability to meet debt service requirements. The presentation of Adjusted EBITDA herein is intended to be consistent with the calculation of that measure as usedrequired by our credit facilityborrowing agreements, and used to calculate a leverage ratio (maximum of 4.004.50 at September 30, 20142015) and an interest coverage ratio (minimum of 3.503.00 for the yeartwelve months ended September 30, 20142015). Leverage ratio is calculated as average total indebtedness, as described in our credit facility, relative todivided by Adjusted EBITDA. Interest coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by interest expense, as described in our credit facility, and excludes costs related to refinancings. Our leverage ratio was 2.182.63 at September 30, 20142015 and our interest coverage ratio was 9.419.34 for the yeartwelve months ended September 30, 20142015. Please refer to “ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS — Liquidity and Capital Resources — Borrowing Arrangements”Agreements” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of our credit facility.

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In accordance with the terms of our credit facility, Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net income or loss(loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization as well as certain other items such as the impact of the cumulative effect of changes in accounting, costs associated with debt refinancing and other non-recurring or non-cash items affecting net income. For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company changed its calculation of Adjusted EBITDA to reflect the measure as defined in our fourth amended credit agreement. Prior periods have not been adjusted as they reflect the presentation consistent with the calculation as required by our borrowing agreements in place at that time. The revised calculation adds adjustments for share-based compensation expense, expense on certain leases, and impairment, restructuring and other charges (including cash and non-cash charges) and no longer includes an adjustment for mark-to-market adjustments on derivatives. Our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA does not represent and should not be considered as an alternative to net income or cash flows from operating activities as determined by GAAP. We make no representation or assertion that Adjusted EBITDA is indicative of our cash flows from operating activities or results of operations. We have provided a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to income from continuing operations solely for the purpose of complying with SEC regulations and not as an indication that Adjusted EBITDA is a substitute measure for income from continuing operations.
A numeric reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to income from continuing operations is as follows:
 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 2012 2011 20102015 2014 2013 2012 2011
(In millions, except per share data)(In millions, except per share data)
Income from continuing operations$165.4
 $159.4
 $111.6
 $157.5
 $206.7
$158.7
 $165.4
 $159.4
 $111.6
 $157.5
Income tax expense from continuing operations91.2
 91.9
 67.8
 92.1
 123.0
85.4
 91.2
 91.9
 67.8
 92.1
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (excluding Global Pro sale)0.8
 1.7
 (3.4) (29.1) (2.6)
 0.8
 1.7
 (3.4) (29.1)
Income tax expense (benefit) from discontinued operations0.9
 0.7
 (1.2) (16.6) 3.6

 0.9
 0.7
 (1.2) (16.6)
Costs related to refinancings10.7
 
 
 1.2
 

 10.7
 
 
 1.2
Interest expense47.3
 59.2
 61.8
 51.0
 43.2
50.5
 47.3
 59.2
 61.8
 51.0
Interest expense from discontinued operations
 
 
 1.7
 3.7

 
 
 
 1.7
Depreciation50.6
 54.9
 51.5
 50.3
 48.5
51.4
 50.6
 54.9
 51.5
 50.3
Amortization13.8
 11.2
 10.9
 11.4
 10.9
17.6
 13.8
 11.2
 10.9
 11.4
Gain on investment of unconsolidated affiliate(8)
(3.3) 
 
 
 

 (3.3) 
 
 
Loss on impairment and other charges33.7
 11.2
 4.7
 64.3
 18.5
91.5
 33.7
 11.2
 4.7
 64.3
Product registration and recall matters, non-cash portion
 
 0.2
 8.7
 1.0

 
 
 0.2
 8.7
Mark-to-market adjustments on derivatives1.3
 0.3
 (1.0) 0.5
 

 1.3
 0.3
 (1.0) 0.5
Smith & Hawken closure process, non-cash portion
 
 
 
 (16.4)
Expense on certain leases3.5
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense13.2
 
 
 
 
Adjusted EBITDA$412.4
 $390.5
 $302.9
 $393.0
 $440.1
$471.8
 $412.4
 $390.5
 $302.9
 $393.0

(7)Amount represents the earnings attributable to the noncontrolling interest of AeroGrow which was consolidated in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.
(8)Amount represents a gain on our investment in AeroGrow recognized during the fourth quarter of 2014 as a result of our consolidation of the business. Excluded from this amount is $2.4 million of earnings on AeroGrow's unconsolidated results for fiscal year 2014 recorded within “Other income, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.


24

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ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The purpose of this discussion is to provide an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations by focusing on changes in certain key measures from year-to-year. Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is divided into the following sections:
Executive summary
Results of operations
Segment results
Liquidity and capital resources
Regulatory matters
Critical accounting policies and estimates
Executive Summary
We are dedicated to delivering strong, long-term financial results and outstanding shareholder returns by providing products of superior quality and value to enhance consumers’ lawn and garden environments. We are a leading manufacturer and marketer of consumer branded products for lawn and garden care in North America and Europe. We are Monsanto’s exclusive agent for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® non-selective herbicide products within the United States and other contractually specified countries. We have a presence in similar consumer branded products in Australia, the Far East and Latin America. In addition, with our recent acquisition of General Hydroponics and Vermicrop, and control of AeroGrow, we are a leading producer of liquid plant food products, growing media, advanced indoor garden systems and accessories for hydroponic gardening. We also operate Scotts LawnService®, the second largest U.S. lawn care service business.business in the United States. Our operations are divided into the followingtwo reportable segments: Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®.
In fiscal 2014,2015 we advanced a number ofaccomplished several key initiatives and activities which focused on:included: (1) margin improvementthe expansion of our indoor and savings initiatives inurban gardening category through the core businessacquisition of General Hydroponics and Vermicrop, who are leading producers of liquid plant food products, growing media and accessories for hydroponic gardening; (2) introducing several new products including Scotts Outdoor Cleaner plus OxiCleanTM; (3) continued investment in growth opportunities adjacent to the core businessour growing media operations and distribution capabilities through capital investment and recent acquisitions; (4) successfully renegotiating and amending our recent acquisitions of TomcatMarketing Agreement for consumer Roundup®, Fafard,with Monsanto and Solus, as well as expansionentering into the urban and indoor consumer category through investments in AeroGrow and our newly formed subsidiary The Hawthorne Gardening Company (“Hawthorne”). After a late start to thenew lawn and garden season which negatively impactedbrand extension agreement and commercialization and technology agreement; (5) increasing our first half results, improved consumer engagementquarterly dividend; and (6) continuing to streamline our initiatives came togetherexecutive ranks to improve efficiency.
On May 15, 2015, we amended our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto and entered into a lawn and garden brand extension agreement, and a commercialization and technology agreement with Monsanto. These agreements provide us with the following significant rights:
The ability to extend the Roundup® brand into other categories of lawn and garden beyond non-selective weed control globally;
The opportunity to introduce the consumer Roundup® brand into territories not included in the original Marketing Agreement, including China and Latin America. Only Japan and countries with U.S. trade embargoes are excluded from the Marketing Agreement;
The opportunity to propose changes to product formulations if deemed necessary to grow and/or protect the Roundup® brand;
A right of first offer and a right of last look in the event Monsanto were to sell the consumer Roundup® business and a credit to the purchase price in an amount equal to the then applicable termination fee in the event we make a bid in connection with such a sale;
A “first look” related to Monsanto’s innovation pipeline. Scotts Miracle-Gro would be provided with access to new technology and products that may be commercialized in the second halfresidential lawn and garden marketplace;
The enhancements of our rights in connection with the termination of the yearMarketing Agreement, including increasing the termination fee payable thereunder, eliminating certain of Monsanto’s termination rights and delaying the

25




effectiveness of a termination in connection with a change of control of Monsanto or a sale of the consumer Roundup® business for five years after the notice of termination; and
The expanded ability for us to lift full year results. Duringtransfer, and thereby monetize, our rights as marketing agent to a third party (1) with respect to (a) the year, we returned over $350North America territories and (b) one or more other included markets for up to three other assignments and (2) in connection with a change of control of Scotts Miracle-Gro.
We paid Monsanto $300 million to shareholders through quarterly cash dividends, a special one-time cash dividend and share repurchases.in consideration for these agreements on August 14, 2015, using existing availability under our credit facility.
As a leading consumer branded lawn and garden company, our product development and marketing efforts are largely focused on providing innovative and differentiated products and on continually increasing brand and product awareness to inspire consumers and to create retail demand. We have successfully applied this model for a number of years by focusing on research and development and investing approximatelyaround 5% of our annual net sales in advertising to support and promote our products and brands. We continually explore new and innovative ways to communicate with consumers. We believe that we receive a significant return on these expenditures and anticipate a similar commitment to research and development, advertising and marketing investments in the future, with the continuing objective of driving category growth and profitably increasing market share.
Our net sales in any one year are susceptible to weather conditions in the markets in which our products are sold and our services are offered. For instance, periods of abnormally wet or dry weather can adversely impact the sale of certain products, while increasing demand for other products, or delay the timing of our provision of certain services. We believe that our diversified product line and our broad geographic diversification reduce this risk, although to a lesser extent in a year in which unfavorable weather is geographically wide-spread and extends across a significant portion of the lawn and garden season. We also believe that weather conditions in any one year, positive or negative, do not materially alterimpact longer-term category growth trends.
Due to the seasonal nature of the lawn and garden business, significant portions of our products ship to our retail customers during our second and third fiscal quarters, as noted in the chart below. Our annual net sales are further concentrated in the second and third fiscal quarters by retailers who rely on our ability to deliver products closer to when consumers buy our products, thereby reducing retailers’ pre-season inventories.

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Percent of Net Sales from Continuing 
Operations by Quarter
Percent of Net Sales from Continuing 
Operations by Quarter
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
First Quarter6.7% 7.0% 6.7%7.2% 6.7% 7.0%
Second Quarter38.0% 36.4% 41.7%36.5% 38.0% 36.4%
Third Quarter39.3% 41.0% 37.5%40.3% 39.3% 41.0%
Fourth Quarter16.0% 15.6% 14.1%16.0% 16.0% 15.6%

Management focuses on a variety of key indicators and operating metrics to monitor the financial condition and performance of the continuing operations of our business. These metrics include consumer purchases (point-of-sale data), market share, category growth, net sales (including unit volume, pricing, and foreign exchange movements), gross profit margins, advertising to net sales ratios, income from operations, income from continuing operations, net income and earnings per share. To the extent applicable, these measures are evaluated with and without impairment, restructuring and other charges, as well as product registration and recall matters, which management believes are not indicative of the earnings capabilities of our businesses. We also focus on measures to optimize cash flow and return on invested capital, including the management of working capital and capital expenditures.
In August 2010, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of our Common Shares over a four-year period through September 30, 2014. In May 2011, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of the Common Shares, resulting in authority to repurchase up to a total of up to $700 million of our Common Shares through September 30, 2014. Since the inception of the share repurchase program in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 through its expiration on September 30, 2014,, Scotts Miracle-Gro repurchased 9.9 million Common Shares for $521.2 million to be held in treasury.
On August 11, 2014, we announced that the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors approved the following:approved:
Aa special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per Common Share that was paid on September 17, 2014;
Anan increase in our quarterly cash dividend from $0.4375 to $0.45 per Common Share; and

A
26




a new share repurchase authorization effective November 1, 2014, which will expire on September 30, 2019, to repurchase up to $500 million of our Common Shares. This replacesreplaced the previous authorization which expired on September 30, 2014.
On August 3, 2015, we announced that the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors approved an increase in our quarterly cash dividend from $0.45 to $0.47 per Common Share. The decision to increase the amount of cash we intend to return to our shareholders reflects our continued confidence in the business.business and our desire to maintain a consistent capital structure.

Results of Operations
We classified our wild bird food business and our professional seed business as discontinued operations, for all periods presented, beginning in our second quarter of fiscal 2014 and our fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, respectively.2014. As a result, and unless specifically stated otherwise, all discussions regarding results for the fiscal years ended September 30, 20142015, 20132014 and 20122013 reflect results from our continuing operations.

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The following table sets forth the components of income and expense as a percentage of net sales:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014
2013
20122015
2014
2013
Net sales100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Cost of sales63.7
 64.6
 65.5
64.5
 63.7
 64.6
Cost of sales—impairment, restructuring and other
 0.1
 
0.2
 
 0.1
Cost of sales—product registration and recall matters
 
 
Gross profit36.3
 35.3
 34.5
35.3
 36.3
 35.3
Operating expenses:          
Selling, general and administrative24.0
 23.8
 25.4
23.2
 24.0
 23.8
Impairment, restructuring and other1.8
 0.7
 0.3
2.6
 1.8
 0.7
Product registration and recall matters
 
 0.3
Other income, net(0.5) (0.4) (0.1)(0.2) (0.5) (0.4)
Income from operations11.0
 11.2
 8.6
9.7
 11.0
 11.2
Costs related to refinancing0.4
 
 

 0.4
 
Interest expense1.7
 2.1
 2.2
1.7
 1.7
 2.1
Income from continuing operations before income taxes8.9
 9.1
 6.4
8.0
 8.9
 9.1
Income tax expense from continuing operations3.2
 3.3
 2.4
2.8
 3.2
 3.3
Income from continuing operations5.7
 5.8
 4.0
5.2
 5.7
 5.8
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 0.1
 (0.2)
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 0.1
Net income5.7 % 5.9 % 3.8 %5.2 % 5.7 % 5.9 %

Net Sales
Net sales for fiscal 20142015 increased2.4% 6.2% to $3.02 billion from $2.84 billion in fiscal 2014. Net sales for fiscal 2014 toincreased $2.84 billion2.4% from $2.77 billion in fiscal 2013. Net sales for fiscal 2013 increased 0.1% from $2.77 billion in fiscal 2012. The changeschange in net sales compared to the previous year werewas attributable to the following:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
Acquisitions4.9 % 1.4 %
Volume(0.1)% (1.5)%4.4
 (0.1)
Foreign exchange rates(2.7) 0.2
Pricing0.9
 1.6
(0.4) 0.9
Foreign exchange rates0.2
 (0.2)
Acquisitions1.4
 0.2
Change in net sales2.4 % 0.1 %6.2 % 2.4 %

The increase in net sales for fiscal 20142015 was primarily driven by:
the addition of net sales from acquisitions within our Global Consumer segment including General Hydroponics, Vermicrop, AeroGrow, and Fafard and within our Scotts LawnService® segment from Action Pest; and
increased sales volume in our Global Consumer segment, driven by increased sales within the United States of controls, including increased sales of Tomcat® products, as well as growing media and cleaners products;

27




which were partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies including Canadian dollar, euro, and British pound; and
an unfavorable impact of decreased pricing in the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States, related to controls products.

The increase in net sales for fiscal 2014 was primarily driven by:
the addition of net sales from the Tomcat® acquisition within our Global Consumer segment;
athe favorable impact of increased pricing in the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States; and
athe favorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the slight weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies;currencies including Canadian dollar, euro, and British pound;
which were partially offset by a slight decline in sales volumes within our Global Consumer segment, driven by a decline in sales within the United States of plant fertilizers and controls products, partially offset by increased sales of mulch products in the United States and increased net sales in Europe.


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The increase in net sales for fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by:
the favorable impact of increased pricing in the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States; and
increased volume within our Scotts LawnService® segment driven by higher customer counts and a weather driven delay of sales from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 to the first quarter of fiscal 2013.
which were partially offset by:
decreased volume in our Global Consumer segment, driven by a decrease in sales within the United States of fertilizers and controls partially offset by increases in sales within the United States of mulch and grass seed products;
a decline in net sales attributable to reimbursements associated with our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto;
decreased sales in Corporate and Other related to ICL supply agreements, which were entered into in connection with the sale of Global Pro in 2011; and
an unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.
Cost of Sales
The following table shows the major components of cost of sales:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Materials$1,073.5
 $1,100.0
 $1,105.9
$1,155.1
 $1,073.5
 $1,100.0
Manufacturing labor and overhead324.3
 310.0
 311.7
364.8
 324.3
 310.0
Distribution and warehousing349.1
 321.3
 316.3
361.8
 349.1
 321.3
Roundup® reimbursements
63.0
 62.0
 79.6
63.3
 63.0
 62.0
1,809.9
 1,793.3
 1,813.5
1,945.0
 1,809.9
 1,793.3
Impairment, restructuring and other
 2.2
 
6.6
 
 2.2
Product registration and recall matters
 
 0.4
$1,809.9
 $1,795.5
 $1,813.9
$1,951.6
 $1,809.9
 $1,795.5

Factors contributing to the change in cost of sales are outlined in the following table:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Material costs$(23.2) $(8.2)$3.6
 $(23.2)
Volume and product mix35.1
 10.3
184.3
 35.1
Roundup® reimbursements
1.0
 (17.6)0.3
 1.0
Foreign exchange rates3.7
 (4.7)(53.1) 3.7
16.6
 (20.2)135.1
 16.6
Impairment, restructuring and other(2.2) 2.2
6.6
 (2.2)
Product registration and recall matters
 (0.4)
Change in cost of sales$14.4
 $(18.4)$141.7
 $14.4
The increase in cost of sales for fiscal 2015 was primarily driven by:
costs related to sales from acquisitions of $108.5 million for fiscal 2015 compared to $4.7 million for fiscal 2014, within our Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService® segments;
increased sales volume and unfavorable product mix due to increased sales of growing media products in our Global Consumer segment;
increased material costs within our Global Consumer segment for our grass seed and growing media products; and
restructuring and liquidation costs of $6.4 million for fiscal 2015 related to the liquidation and exit from the U.K. Solus business and addressing the consumer complaints regarding our newly reformulated Bonus S® product;
which were partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of a strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies including Canadian dollar, euro, and British pound.

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The increase in cost of sales excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, and product registration and recall matters for fiscal 2014 was primarily driven by: 
unfavorable product mix due to increased sales of our mulch products and higher distribution costs in our Global Consumer segment; and
anthe unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies;
which were partially offset by a decline in material costs in our Global Consumercurrencies including the Canadian dollar, euro, and Scotts LawnService® segments due to product cost-out initiatives including growing media material costs and packaging and decreased prices of fertilizer inputs.British pound;
The decrease in cost of sales, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, and product registration and recall matters for
which were partially offset by a decline in material costs in our Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService® segments due to product cost-out initiatives including growing media material costs and packaging and decreased prices of fertilizer inputs.fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by:
lower reimbursements attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto;
a decline in our growing media material costs due to our product cost-out initiatives, partially offset by increased costs of fertilizer inputs and packaging; and
a favorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies;
which were partially offset by unfavorable product mix due to increased sales of our mulch products in the United States within our Global Consumer segment.
Gross Profit
As a percentage of net sales, our gross profit rate was 36.3%35.3%, 36.3% and 35.3% for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 compared to 35.3% for and fiscal 2013,. As a percentage of net sales, our gross profit rate was 35.3% for fiscal 2013 compared to 34.5% for fiscal 2012. respectively. Factors contributing to the change in gross profit rate are outlined in the following table:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
Pricing0.6 % 1.0 %(0.3)% 0.6 %
Material costs0.8
 0.3
(0.1) 0.8
Product mix and volume:      
Roundup® commissions and reimbursements
0.1
 0.2
0.1
 0.1
Acquisitions(0.5) 
Corporate & Other0.1
 0.1

 0.1
Scotts LawnService®
0.2
 0.1
0.3
 0.2
Global Consumer mix and volume(0.8) (0.8)(0.2) (0.8)
1.0
 0.9
(0.7) 1.0
Impairment, restructuring and other
 (0.1)(0.3) 
Change in gross profit rate1.0 % 0.8 %(1.0)% 1.0 %
The increasedecrease in ourthe gross profit rate excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, for fiscal 2014,2015 was primarily driven by: 
unfavorable product mix within our Global Consumer segment due to increased sales of growing media and the net impact of acquisitions;
the unfavorable impact of decreased pricing in the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States related to controls products; and
increased material costs within our Global Consumer segment for our grass seed and growing media products;
partially offset by increased commission income under our Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup®; and
an increase in sales within our Scotts LawnService® segment.
The increase in the gross profit rate for fiscal 2014 was primarily driven by:
decreased material costs within our Global Consumer segment due to product cost-out initiatives including growing media material costs and packaging costs and decreased prices of fertilizer inputs; and
athe favorable impact of increased pricing for the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States;
which were partially offset by unfavorable product mix within our Global Consumer segment due to increased sales of our mulch products and higher distribution costs.

29



The increase in our gross profit rate, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall matters, for fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by:
a favorable impact of increased pricing for the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the United States;
decreased material costs in our Global Consumer segment due to a decline in growing media material costs resulting from product cost-out initiatives, partially offset by increased costs for fertilizer inputs; and
the impact of zero margin dollar reimbursements, attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto;
which were partially offset by decreased volume in our Global Consumer segment resulting in reduced leverage of fixed manufacturing and warehousing costs.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
The following table showssets forth the major components of Selling, Generalselling, general and Administrativeadministrative expenses (“SG&A”):
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions, except percentage figures)(In millions, except percentage figures)
Advertising$143.6
 $142.2
 $168.9
$146.1
 $143.6
 $142.2
Advertising as a percentage of net sales5.1% 5.1% 6.1%4.8% 5.1% 5.1%
Share-based compensation11.1
 10.3
 12.5
13.2
 11.1
 10.3
Research and development48.4
 46.4
 50.8
46.8
 48.4
 46.4
Amortization of intangibles10.2
 8.2
 8.2
14.6
 10.2
 8.2
Other selling, general and administrative467.2
 452.5
 462.9
477.7
 467.2
 452.5
$680.5
 $659.6
 $703.3
$698.4
 $680.5
 $659.6

SG&A increased $17.9 million, or 2.6%, to $698.4 million for fiscal 2015 compared to $680.5 million for fiscal 2014. Advertising expense increased$1.4 $2.5 million or 1.0%1.7% to $143.6$146.1 million in fiscal 20142015 compared to $142.2$143.6 million in fiscal 2014. Excluding the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, advertising expense increased by $5.3 million, or 3.7%, during fiscal 2015 primarily due to acquisitions. Advertising expense in fiscal 2014 increased $1.4 million, or 1.0%, compared to fiscal 2013, due to increased spending on Tomcat® branded products. Advertising expense in fiscal 2013 decreased $26.7 million compared to fiscal 2012, driven by our planned reduction in media investment, reduced spending due to the delay in the fiscal 2013 lawn and garden season and media purchasing efficiencies within the Global Consumer segment.
Share-based compensation expense increased $2.1 million, or 18.9%, to $13.2 million in increased$0.8 millionfiscal 2015 or 7.8%compared to $11.1$11.1 million in fiscal 2014 comparedas a result of additional expense associated with fiscal 2015 awards as well as lower prior year expense due to $10.3 million in the impact of forfeitures of previously recognized share-based compensation for executive departures during fiscal 2013 and2014. Share-based compensation expense in fiscal 2013 share-based compensation expense declined $2.22014 increased $0.8 million, or 7.8%, compared to fiscal 2012. These changes were2013, primarily due to the forfeitureforfeitures of shares-based awards associated with the departure of certain key executives in fiscal 2013.previously recognized share-based compensation for executive departures.
Amortization expense was $10.2increased $4.4 million, or 43.1%, to $14.6 million in fiscal 2015 compared to $10.2 million in fiscal 2014. Amortization expense in fiscal 2014 increased $2.0 million, or 24.4%, compared to $8.2 million in eachfiscal 2013. These increases are due to the impact of fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012. The increase in fiscal 2014 was driven by the amortization of intangible assets we acquired in connection with our acquisition of the Tomcat® business.recent acquisitions.
Other SG&A increased $14.7$10.5 million, or 3.2%2.2%, in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 due to the impact of recent acquisitions of $30.6 million, partially offset by foreign exchange rate impact of $12.0 million as the U.S. dollar has strengthened relative to other currencies including Canadian dollar, euro, and British pound. In fiscal 2014, Other SG&A increased $14.7 million compared to fiscal 2013. The primary drivers of the increase were increased marketing spending including package design costs, and the startup of The Hawthorne Gardening Company, which is focused on urban and indoor gardening, and diligence and integration costs of our acquisitions of Solus and Fafard. In fiscal 2013, Other SG&A spending decreased $10.4 million compared to fiscal 2012. This decrease was primarily due to a decline in outside consulting expenses, selling and marketing expenditures due to cost productivity initiatives, partially offset by higher compensation expense, including incentive compensation, heath care and severance.
Impairment, Restructuring and Other (included in SG&A)Operating Expenses)
The following table showssets forth the breakdowncomponents of Impairment, Restructuringimpairment, restructuring and Other Chargesother charges (included in SG&A)Operating Expenses):
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Restructuring and other$17.3
 $2.2
 $1.8
$78.0
 $17.3
 $2.2
Property, plant and equipment impairments
 
 2.1
Goodwill and intangible asset impairments33.7
 15.9
 3.2

 33.7
 15.9
$51.0
 $18.1
 $7.1
$78.0
 $51.0
 $18.1
During the third quarter of fiscal 2015, we began experiencing an increase in certain consumer complaints related to our newly reformulated Bonus S® fertilizer product sold in the southeastern United States indicating customers were experiencing damage to their lawns after application. We continue to work with impacted consumers and our insurance carriers to resolve the matter over the coming months. During fiscal 2015, we recognized $59.3 million in costs within the “Impairment, restructuring and other” line within “Operating expenses” on the Consolidated Statement of Operations related to resolving these consumer complaints and the recognition of costs to be incurred for current and expected consumer claims. We are working through the claims process with our insurers and received reimbursement payments of $4.9 million during fiscal 2015, which was recorded as an offsetting insurance reimbursement recovery. Upon the receipt of additional reimbursement by our insurance carriers, we will record an offsetting insurance reimbursement recovery.

30



In addition, in fiscal 2015 we recognized $18.7 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to U.S. and international personnel as part of Contentsthe continuation of the fiscal 2014 restructuring initiative to eliminate management layers and streamline decision making, and the liquidation and exit from the U.K. Solus business.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, as a result of the financial performance, the Companyan impairment review, we recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $33.7 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business.
During fiscal 2014, we recognized $12.5 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to U.S. personnel as part of our restructuring of ourthe U.S. administrative and overhead functions. In addition, we recognized $2.0 million in additional ongoing monitoring and remediation expense for our turfgrass biotechnology program. We also recognized $2.8 million of international restructuring and other adjustments during fiscal 2014 for the continuation of our 2013 restructuring plan.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, we recognized income of $4.7 million related to the reimbursement by a vendor for a portion of the costs incurred for the development and commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment. During the first quarter of 2013, weWe also recognized a $4.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer segment. Also, asAs a result of oura 2013 impairment review, performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, we recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business.
During fiscal 2013,, we recognized $6.9 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to international employees in relation to the profitability improvement initiative announced in December 2012, associated with the international restructuring plan to reduce headcount and streamline management decision making within the Global Consumer segment.
In fiscal 2012, in continuation of the 2011 restructuring plan, we incurred an additional $1.6 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to employees who accepted voluntary retirement and special termination benefits provided to certain employees upon future separation as well as $0.2 million related to curtailment charges for our U.S. defined benefit pension and U.S. retiree medical plans. Additionally, we recognized a $5.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment. Further, we have previously expensed product development and marketing costs associated with the previously planned launch of products containing MAT 28 and are evaluating our options for recovering those costs.
Product Registration and Recall Matters (included in SG&A)
As previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, in fiscal 2012, we resolved the previously disclosed U.S. EPA and U.S. Department of Justice (“U.S. DOJ”) investigations into pesticide product registration issues. Product registration and recall costs were $7.8 million in fiscal 2012. For fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, there were no product registration and recall costs. Fiscal 2012 costs included additional reserves established in connection with the fiscal 2012 settlement of the previously disclosed U.S. EPA and U.S. DOJ investigations, as well as third-party compliance review, legal and consulting fees associated with these investigations. We do not expect to incur any additional costs related to these investigations, as they were settled in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.
Other Income, net
Other income is comprised of activities outside our normal business operations, such as royalty income from the licensing of certain of our tradenames,brand names, franchise fee income from our Scotts LawnService® business, foreign exchange gains/losses, equity income/loss on unconsolidated affiliates and gains/losses from the sale of non-inventory assets. Other income, net, was $14.7$6.1 million,, $14.7 million and $10.0 million and $2.8 millionin fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively. The increasedecrease in other income, net, for fiscal 20142015 was primarily due to $5.8 millionrecognition of investment gains in fiscal 2014 related to our investment in AeroGrow. The increase in other income, net, for fiscal 2013 was primarily due to the sale of peat bog land in fiscal 2013 in the United Kingdom for a gain of $2.3 million and a non-recurring impairment charge of $4.4 million incurred in fiscal 2012 resulting from the revaluation of our corporate aircraft.
Income from Operations
Income from operations in fiscal 2015 was $294.6 million compared to $314.6 million in fiscal 2014, a decrease of $20.0 million, or 6.4%. Excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, income from operations increased by $20.5 million, or 5.6%, in fiscal 2015, primarily driven by growth in net sales and gross profit, partially offset by an increase in SG&A and a decrease in other income, net.
Income from operations in fiscal 2014 was $314.6 million compared to $310.5 million in fiscal 2013, an increase of $4.1 million, or 1.3%. Excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, income from operations increased by $34.8 million, or 10.5%, in fiscal 2014, primarily driven by higher gross profit and an increase in other income, net, partially offset by an increase in SG&A.
Income from operations in fiscal 2013 was $310.5 million compared to $241.2 million in fiscal 2012, an increase of $69.3 million, or 28.7%. Excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall costs, income from operations increased by $74.3 million, or 29.0%, in fiscal 2013, primarily driven by higher gross profit and lower SG&A spending.

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Costs Related to Refinancing
Costs related to refinancing were $10.7 million for fiscal 2014. The costs incurred were associated with the redemption of our 7.25% senior notes due 2018 (the “7.25% Senior Notes”).
Interest Expense
Interest expense in fiscal 20142015 was $47.350.5 million compared to $59.247.3 million in fiscal 2014 and $61.859.2 million in fiscal 2013. The increase in fiscal 2015 was driven by an increase in average borrowings of $260.2 million, excluding the impact of foreign exchange rates; partially offset by a decrease in our weighted average interest rate of 78 basis points primarily due to reduced rates under our credit facility and fiscal 2012, respectively.the redemption of the 7.25% Senior Notes. The declinedecrease in fiscal 2014 was primarily due to a decrease in our weighted average interest rate of 124 basis points compared to fiscal 2013 as a result of reduced rates under our third amended and restated credit agreement and due to the redemption of the 7.25% Senior Notes. The decrease in fiscal 2013 was primarily due to a decrease in average borrowings, partially offset by an increase in our weighted average interest rate of 24 basis points compared to fiscal 2012.2013.

31




Income Tax Expense
A reconciliation of the federal corporate income tax rate and the effective tax rate on income from continuing operations before income taxes is summarized below:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Statutory income tax rate35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
Effect of foreign operations1.5
 0.8
 (0.5)(0.5) 1.5
 0.8
State taxes, net of federal benefit2.7
 2.9
 3.1
3.1
 2.7
 2.9
Domestic production activities deduction permanent difference(2.7) (2.1) (1.5)(3.1) (2.7) (2.1)
Effect of other permanent differences0.2
 0.8
 2.4
0.1
 0.2
 0.8
Research and experimentation and other federal tax credits(0.8) (0.3) (0.1)(0.2) (0.8) (0.3)
Resolution of prior tax contingencies0.2
 0.2
 (0.9)0.4
 0.2
 0.2
Other(0.5) (0.7) 0.3
0.2
 (0.5) (0.7)
Effective income tax rate35.6 % 36.6 % 37.8 %35.0 % 35.6 % 36.6 %

The effective tax rate for continuing operations was 35.0% for 35.6%fiscal 2015, compared to 35.6% for fiscal 2014, compared to and 36.6% for fiscal 2013 and 37.8% for fiscal 2012. Excluding reserves established for product registrations and recall matters, the effective tax rate for continuing operations was 35.6%, 36.6% and 36.1% for fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.
Income and Earnings per Share from Continuing Operations
We reported income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations of $165.7$159.8 million, or $2.64$2.57 per diluted share, in fiscal 2015 compared to $165.7 million, or $2.64 per diluted share, in fiscal 2014. In fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, the pre-tax impact of impairment, restructuring and other charges was $91.5 million and $51.0 million, respectively. Additionally, we incurred $10.7 million of pre-tax costs during the third quarter of 2014 related to refinancing. Excluding these items, adjusted income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations was $219.3 million in fiscal 2015 compared to $206.3 million in fiscal 2014, an increase of $13.0 million, primarily driven by growth in net sales and gross profit, partially offset by an increase in SG&A and a decrease in other income, net. Diluted weighted-average Common Shares outstanding decreased from 62.7 million in fiscal 2014 to 62.2 million in fiscal 2015. The decrease was primarily driven by share repurchases, partially offset by the exercise of stock options and the issuance of Common Shares upon the vesting of restricted share-based awards. Dilutive equivalent shares for fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014 compared towere 1.1 million and 1.1 million, respectively.
We reported income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations of $159.4$165.7 million,, or $2.55$2.64 per diluted share, in fiscal 2013. In fiscal 2014, compared to $159.4 million, or $2.55 per diluted share, in fiscal 2013. In fiscal 2014, we incurred pre-tax costs of $51.0$51.0 million,, relating to impairment, restructuring and other charges. Additionally the Companycharges, and we incurred $10.7 million of pre-tax costs during the third quarter of 2014 related to refinancing. In fiscal 2013,, we incurred $20.3$20.3 million of pre-tax impairment, restructuring and other charges. Excluding these items, adjusted income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations was $206.3 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $172.6 million in fiscal 2013,, an increase of $33.7 million, primarily driven by higher gross profit, increased Other Income,other income, net, and lower interest expense; partially offset by higher SG&A spending. Diluted weighted-average Common Shares outstanding increased from 62.6 million in fiscal 2013 to 62.7 million in fiscal 2014.2014. The increase was primarily driven by the exercise of stock options and the issuance of Common Shares upon the vesting of restricted share-based awards, and an increase in the number of dilutive potential Common Shares,Shares; partially offset by share repurchases. Dilutive equivalent shares for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 were 1.1 million and 0.9 million,, respectively. The increase in dilutive equivalent shares was primarily driven by an increase in our average share price, partially offset by the exercise of stock options.
We reported income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations of $159.4 million, or $2.55 per diluted share, in fiscal 2013 compared to income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations of $111.6 million, or $1.80 per diluted share, in fiscal 2012. In fiscal 2013, we incurred costs of $20.3 million relating to impairment, restructuring and other charges. In fiscal 2012, we incurred $7.1 million of impairment charges, as well as $8.2 million in pre-tax costs associated with product registration and recall matters. Excluding these items, adjusted income from continuing operations was $172.6 million in fiscal 2013 compared to $123.3 million in fiscal 2012, an increase of $49.3 million, primarily driven by higher gross profit and lower SG&A spending and interest expense. Diluted weighted-average Common Shares outstanding increased from 62.1 million in fiscal 2012 to 62.6 million in fiscal 2013. The increase was primarily driven by the exercise of stock options and issuance of Common Shares upon the vesting of restricted share-based awards partially offset by a decrease in the number of dilutive equivalent

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shares. Dilutive equivalent shares for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 were 0.9 million and 1.1 million, respectively. The decrease in dilutive equivalent shares was primarily driven by the exercise of stock options partially offset by an increase in our average share price.
Income (loss) from Discontinued Operations
In our second quarter of fiscal 2014,, we completed the sale of our wild bird food business. As a result,business at which time we began presenting this business within discontinued operations. In our fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, we completed the wind down of the non-European professional seed business. As a result, we began presenting this business within discontinued operations.
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, was $0.8zero, $0.8 million and $1.7 million in fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014, while income of $1.7 million and loss of $5.1 million were recognized in fiscal 2013, respectively, and fiscal 2012, respectively. Fiscal 2014 included activityis primarily associated with the 2014 sale of theour wild bird food business. Fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 included activity associated with the wind down and disposal of the non-European professional seed business.
Segment Results
Our continuing operations are divided into the followingtwo reportable segments: Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®. This division of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by the chief operating decision maker of the Company. Corporate & Other includesconsists of revenues and expenses associated with the Company’sour supply agreements with ICL, and the amortization related to the Roundup® Marketing Agreement, as well as corporate, general and administrative expenses and certain other income/expense items not allocated to the business segments.

We evaluate segment
32




Segment performance is evaluated based on several factors, including income from continuing operations before income taxes, interest expense, amortization, product registration and recall costs, impairment, restructuring and other charges, and costs related to refinancing. Managementwhich is not a measure recognized under GAAP. Senior management uses this measure of operating profit to evaluate segment performance because we believe this measure is the most indicative of performance trends and the overall earnings potential of each segment.
The following tables present segment information:
Net Salestable sets forth net sales by Segmentsegment:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Global Consumer$2,552.0
 $2,484.7
 $2,483.6
$2,701.0
 $2,552.0
 $2,484.7
Scotts LawnService®
263.0
 257.8
 245.8
288.5
 263.0
 257.8
Segment total2,815.0
 2,742.5
 2,729.4
2,989.5
 2,815.0
 2,742.5
Corporate & Other26.3
 31.2
 41.1
27.0
 26.3
 31.2
Consolidated$2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
$3,016.5
 $2,841.3
 $2,773.7
Income (Loss)The following table sets forth segment income from Continuing Operationscontinuing operations before Income Taxes by Segmentincome taxes:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Global Consumer$438.8
 $403.7
 $335.9
$466.2
 $438.8
 $403.7
Scotts LawnService®
30.2
 28.7
 27.0
33.3
 30.2
 28.7
Segment total469.0
 432.4
 362.9
499.5
 469.0
 432.4
Corporate & Other(90.4) (91.2) (96.3)(96.6) (90.4) (91.2)
Intangible asset amortization(13.0) (10.4) (10.1)(16.8) (13.0) (10.4)
Product registration and recall matters
 
 (8.2)
Impairment, restructuring and other(51.0) (20.3) (7.1)(91.5) (51.0) (20.3)
Costs related to refinancing(10.7) 
 

 (10.7) 
Interest expense(47.3) (59.2) (61.8)(50.5) (47.3) (59.2)
Consolidated$256.6
 $251.3
 $179.4
$244.1
 $256.6
 $251.3


33

Table of Contents

Global Consumer
Global Consumer segment net sales increased 5.8% from $2.6 billion in fiscal 2014 to $2.7 billion in fiscal 2015. For fiscal 2015, favorable impacts of volume and acquisitions of 4.3% and 4.8%, respectively, were partially offset by unfavorable changes in pricing and foreign exchange rates of 0.3% and 2.9%, respectively.
Net sales in the United States increased $154.1 million, or 7.6%, during fiscal 2015 driven by increased volume of controls, growing media, and cleaners products, as well as the impact of recent acquisitions. Excluding the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, net sales internationally increased by $69.7 million, or 13.6%, during fiscal 2015 driven by the acquisitions of Fafard and Solus, and higher sales volume within Canada.
Global Consumer segment income from continuing operations before income taxes increased 6.2% from $438.8 million in fiscal 2014 to $466.2 million in fiscal 2015. Excluding the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates, the increase was 7.2% for fiscal 2015, primarily driven by higher sales volume of controls, including increased sales of Tomcat® products, as well as growing media and cleaners products in the United States, and higher sales volume within Canada, partially offset by decreased pricing, increased material costs for our grass seed and growing media products, and higher SG&A as a result of recent acquisitions.
Global Consumer segment net sales increased increased 2.7% from $2.48$2.5 billion in fiscal 2013 compared to $2.55$2.6 billion in fiscal 2014.2014. The change in fiscal 2014 net sales was favorably impacted by the Tomcat® acquisition, favorable pricing and foreign exchange rates, which were responsible for net sales increases of 1.6%, 1.1%, and 0.2%, respectively. These increases were partially offset by a slight decrease in sales volume driven by a decline in sales within the United StatesU.S. of plant fertilizers and control products, partially offset by increased sales of mulch products in the United States and increased net sales in Europe. Net sales in the United States increased by 1.5%, primarily driven by the acquisition of the Tomcat® consumer rodent control business during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 ,and an increase in pricing, partially offset by a slight overall decrease in sales volume driven by a decline in sales within the United States of plant fertilizers and control products, partially offset by increased sales of mulch products in the U.S.products. Net sales outside of the United States increased 7.3% in fiscal 2014,, primarily attributable to sales volume improvements in Europe and favorable effects of foreign currency changes as a result of the weakening

33




of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies, particularly the Euro.euro. Excluding the impact of foreign currency rates, net sales outside of the United States increased 6.2% compared to fiscal 2013.2013.
Global Consumer segment income from continuing operations before income taxes (“segment income”) for fiscal 2014 was $438.8$438.8 million,, an increase of $35.1$35.1 million,, or 8.7%, compared to fiscal 2013.2013. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements, segment income the increased by was $33.5 million, or 8.3%, from for fiscal 2013.2014. The increase in segment income for fiscal 2014 was primarily driven by the sales from businesses acquired in fiscal 2014, the favorable impact of pricing, and decreased material costs, partially offset by an increase in SG&A expenses primarily related to increased marketing expense in the U.S. Consumer business and transaction costs related to the acquisitions of Solus and Fafard.
Global Consumer segment net sales were flat in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 at $2.48 billion. Net sales in the U.S. increased $2.6 million or 0.1% in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 primarily due to an increase in pricing and increases in sales of mulch and grass seed products, partially offset by declines in reimbursements attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto and sales of our controls products. Net sales outside of the United States decreased $1.5 million or 0.3% primarily attributable to volume declines in Europe and unfavorable effects of foreign currency changes as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies, partially offset by volume increases in Asia Pacific. Excluding the impact of foreign currency rates, net sales outside of the United States increased 1.0% compared to fiscal 2012.
Global Consumer segment income for fiscal 2013 was $403.7 million, an increase of $67.8 million, or 20.2%, compared to fiscal 2012. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements, segment income increased by $69.2 million, or 20.7%, for fiscal 2013. The increase in segment income for fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by the favorable impact of pricing, decreased material costs and a decrease in SG&A expenses resulting from our product cost-out initiatives.
Scotts LawnService® 
Scotts LawnService® net sales increased by $25.5 million, or 9.7%, in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014. The increase in net sales was driven by the $12.0 million in net sales for Action Pest included in the Scotts LawnService$5.2 million, or 2.0%, to $263.0 million® segment for fiscal 2015, as well as increased customer count. The segment operating income for Scotts LawnService® increased by $3.1 million, or 10.3%, in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014. The increased income was primarily driven by the acquisition of Action Pest and higher customer count, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses for planned increases in selling costs.
Scotts LawnService® net sales increased by $5.2 million, or 2.0%, in fiscal 2014, as compared to fiscal 2013, primarily due to higher customer counts and increased volume. Scotts LawnService® segment income increased $1.5$1.5 million to $30.2$30.2 million in fiscal 2014.2014. The improved operating results were driven by the higher net sales, lower product costs and lower incentive compensation, partially offset by higher selling expenses.
Scotts LawnService® net sales increased by $12.0 million, or 4.9%, to $257.8 million in fiscal 2013, primarily due to increased customer retention, the full year impact of acquisitions and new customer sales. Scotts LawnService® segment income increased $1.7 million to $28.7 million in fiscal 2013. The improved operating results were driven by higher net sales and lower product costs, partially offset by higher SG&A, which was primarily the outcome of higher marketing and selling expenses.
Corporate & Other
Net sales for Corporate & Other decreased $4.9increased $0.7 million to $26.3$27.0 million in fiscal 2014,2015, due to a declinean increase in sales for our ICL supply agreements, which commenced shortly after the sale of Global Pro in our second quarter of fiscal 2011. The net operating loss for Corporate & Other was $96.6 million in fiscal 2015 as compared to $90.4 million in fiscal 2014. The increase for fiscal 2015 was primarily related to higher share-based compensation expense and litigation settlement activity.
Net sales for Corporate & Other decreased $4.9 million to $26.3 million in fiscal 2014, primarily due to a decline in sales for our ICL supply agreements. The net operating loss for Corporate & Other was flat for fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013.
Net sales for Corporate & Other decreased $9.9 million to $31.2 million in fiscal 2013, primarily due to our ICL supply agreements, which commenced shortly after the sale of Global Pro in our second quarter of fiscal 2011. Net expense for Corporate & Other decreased by $5.1 million in fiscal 2013, driven by reduced spending on outside consulting expenses and marketing related expenditures as part of our cost productivity initiatives, partially offset by higher employee related costs, including incentive compensation, health care and severance.


34


Liquidity and Capital Resources
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities declinedtotaled $246.9 million and $240.9 million for fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, respectively. Cash provided by operating activities increased by $6.0 million, driven by a decrease in cash used for working capital, partially offset by a decrease in net income. The decrease in cash used for working capital was primarily due to less growth in accounts receivable and inventory, partially offset by less growth in accounts payable.
$101.1Cash provided by operating activities declined by $101.1 million to $240.9 million in fiscal 2014. The change in the cash provided by our operating activities was primarily due to an increase in inventory of $38.7 million in fiscal 2014 as part of an early build of growing media and plant food products for the fiscal 2015 lawn and garden season and a decline in expected volumes compared to an $89.0 million decline in inventory in fiscal 2013.
Cash provided by operating activities increased by $188.6 million to $342.0 million in fiscal 2013 from $153.4 million in fiscal 2012. The change in the cash provided by our operating activities was primarily due to an increase in net income of $54.6 million and a reduction in inventory levels over the prior year of $89.0 million as a result of improved inventory management. In addition, income taxes paid declined in fiscal 2013 due to the receipt of an overpayment of taxes related to fiscal 2012 of $37.8 million.
The seasonal nature of our operations generally requires cash to fund significant increases in inventories during the first half of the fiscal year. Receivables and payables also build substantially in theour second quarter of the fiscal year in line with the timing of sales to support our retailers’ spring selling season. These balances liquidate during the June through September period as the lawn and garden season unwinds. Unlike our core Global Consumer segment, Scotts LawnService® typically has its highest receivables balance in the fourth quarter because of the seasonal timing of customer applications and service revenues.
Investing Activities
Cash used in investing activities totaled $536.4 million and $155.6 million in fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, respectively. The change in cash used in our investing activities was primarily driven by the payment of $300 million to Monsanto in consideration for Monsanto's entry into the amendments to our Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup®, the lawn and garden brand extension agreement and the commercialization and technology agreement, and increased acquisitions of $66.2 million. During fiscal 2015, our Global Consumer segment completed the acquisitions of General Hydroponics and Vermicrop for $120.0 million and $15.0 million, respectively, in addition to four acquisitions of growing media operations with an aggregate estimated purchase

34




price of $40.2 million. Additionally, our Scotts LawnService® segment completed the acquisition of Action Pest for $21.7 million. These acquisitions included cash payments of $180.2 million during fiscal 2015. Significant capital projects during fiscal 2015 included investments in our growing media production and packaging facilities, additional capital for supply chain optimization projects, investments in information technology, facility improvement and maintenance, and investments in fleet vehicles for Scotts LawnService®.
Cash used in investing activities totaled $155.6 million and $64.2$64.2 million in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013,, respectively. The change in cash used in our investing activities was primarily driven by increased capital investments in property, plant and equipment and acquisitions of $27.5$27.5 million and $110.8$110.8 million,, respectively, partially offset by $35.1 million in cash proceeds received from the sale and leaseback of an airplane as well as proceeds received from the sale of our U.S. and Canadian wild bird food business of $7.2 million, and the sale of long-lived assets of $3.7 million. The increase in capital investments in property, plant, and equipment includes a $35.1 million down payment on a purchase order to acquire an aircraft that was subsequently sold and leased back.$3.7 million. Significant capital projects during fiscal 2014 included investments in our growing media production and packaging facilities, additional capital for supply chain optimization projects, investments in information technology, facility improvement and maintenance, and investments in fleet vehicles for Scotts LawnService®. Further, during fiscal 2014 we completed acquisitions within our Global Consumer segment of the Tomcat®, a consumer rodent control business, from Bell Laboratories, Inc. within our Global Consumer segment for $60.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 we completed the acquisition of Fafard, a consumer growing media business based in Quebec, Canada for $52.7 million in cash and contingent consideration of $7.1 million based on future performance of the business.
Cash used in investing activities totaled $64.2 million and $75.7 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively. The change in cash used in our investing activities was primarily driven by a reduction of capital investments in property, plant and equipment and acquisitions of $9.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively, and cash proceeds from the sale of long-lived assets of $3.6 million. Significant capital projects during fiscal 2013 included investments in our mulch production facilities associated with our product cost-out initiatives, additional capital to increase capabilities in our fertilizer production facilities, improvements to our inventory warehouse management system and investments in information technology. Further, during fiscal 2013 we completed acquisitions of two franchisee businesses within our Scotts LawnService® segment for $3.2 million and an investment in an unconsolidated affiliate in the indoor gardening market for $4.5 million.
For the three fiscal years ended September 30, 2014,2015, our capital spending was allocated as follows: 66%65% for expansion and maintenance of existing Global Consumer productive assets; 13%14% for new productive assets supporting our Global Consumer segment; 11%13% to expand our information technology and transformation and integration capabilities; 3% for expansion and upgrades of Scotts LawnService® infrastructure; and 7%5% for Corporate & Other assets. We expect fiscal 20152016 capital expenditures to be consistent with our recent capital spending amounts and allocations.
Financing Activities
Financing activities provided cash of $278.9 million in fiscal 2015, and used cash of $124.3 million in fiscal 2014. The change related to financing activities was the result of the redemption of $200.0 million of our 7.25% Senior Notes during fiscal 2014, a decrease in dividends paid in fiscal 2015 as a result of the prior year special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per share, or $122.1 million, and a decrease in repurchases of Common Shares of $105.2 million, partially offset by a decrease in net borrowings under our credit facility of $29.5 million. Net borrowings under our credit facilities in fiscal 2015 were $378.0 million compared to $407.5 million in fiscal 2014. Financing activities also included an increase in cash received from the exercise of stock options of $4.3 million in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014.
Financing activities used cash of $124.3 million and $280.6$280.6 million in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013,, respectively. The change in cash used in financing activities was the result of higher net borrowings of $614.8 million under our credit facility, partially offset by an increase in cash returned to shareholders through dividends of $143.0 million (which included $20.9 million in recurring quarterly cash payments and $122.1 million for the special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per share), the repayment of our 7.25% Senior Notes of $200.0 million, and $120.0 million for repurchases of Common Shares in fiscal year 2014. Net borrowings under our credit facilities in fiscal 2014 were $407.5 million compared to net payments of $207.3 million in fiscal

35


2013. Financing activities also included an increase in cash received from the exercise of stock options of $6.7 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013.

35


Financing activities used cash of $280.6 million and $79.3 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively. An increase in the net repayment of borrowings under our credit facility of $196.7 million and a reduction of share repurchases of $17.5 million was partially offset by an increase of cash returned to shareholders through dividends of $12.4 million. Net repayments under our credit facilities were $207.3 million in fiscal 2013, compared to $10.6 million in fiscal 2012. Financing activities also included a decrease in cash received from the exercise of stock options of $4.3 million in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
Our cash and cash equivalents balances of $89.3 million at September 30, 2014 and $129.8 million at September 30, 2013 were held in cash depository accounts with major financial institutions around the world or invested in high quality, short-term liquid investments withhaving original maturities of three months or less. The cash and cash equivalents balancebalances of $71.4 million and $89.3 million at September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively, included $59.9$55.1 million and $59.9 million, respectively, held by controlled foreign corporations. Our current plans do not demonstrate a need to, nor do we have plans to, repatriate the retained earnings from these foreign corporations as the earnings are indefinitely reinvested. However, in the future, if we determine it is necessary to repatriate these funds, or if we sell or liquidate any of these foreign corporations, we may be required to pay associated taxes on the repatriation, sale or liquidation.
Borrowing ArrangementsAgreements
Our primary sources of liquidity are cash generated by operations and borrowings under our credit facilityfacilities, which isare guaranteed by substantially all of ourScotts Miracle-Gro's domestic subsidiaries. On December 20, 2013,, Scotts Miracle-Gro and certain of our subsidiaries we entered into athe third amended and restated senior secured credit agreement, (the “current credit facility”), providing Scotts Miracle-Gro and certain of our subsidiariesus with a five-year senior secured revolving loan facility in the aggregate principal amount of up to $1.7 billion (the “former credit facility”). The former credit facility, which was in effect throughout fiscal 2015 and as of September 30, 2015, also provided us with the right to seek to increase the committed credit by an aggregate amount of up to $450 million, subject to certain specified conditions. Under the former credit facility we had the ability to obtain letters of credit up to $75 million. At September 30, 2015, we had letters of credit outstanding in the aggregate face amount of $22.7 million, and $861.0 million of availability under our former credit facility, subject to our continued compliance with the covenants discussed below. The weighted average interest rates on average borrowings under our former credit facility were 4.0% and 4.8% for fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, respectively. In August 2015, we paid Monsanto $300 million using borrowings under our former credit facility.
On October 29, 2015, we entered into a fourth amended and restated credit agreement (the “new credit agreement”), providing us with five-year senior secured loan facilities in the aggregate principal amount of $1.9 billion, comprised of a revolving credit facility of $1.6 billion and a term loan in the amount of $300 million (the “new credit facilities”). The new credit agreement also provides us with the right to seek additional committed credit under the agreement in an aggregate amount of up to $500 million plus an unlimited additional amount, subject to certain specified financial and other conditions. The new credit agreement replaces the former credit facility, and will terminate on October 29, 2020. Borrowings on the revolving credit facility may be made in various currencies, including U.S. dollars, Euros,euro, British pounds, Australian dollars, and Canadian dollars. Under
We maintain a Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which provides for the current credit facility,discretionary sale by us, and the discretionary (outside of the contractual commitment period) purchase by the participating banks, on a revolving basis, of accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400.0 million.
On September 25, 2015, we may request up toentered into an additional $450 million in revolving and/or term commitments, subject to certain specified conditions, including approval from the lenders. The current credit facility replaced our second amended and restated senior secured credit agreement,MARP Agreement that provides for the discretionary sale and purchase, on a revolving basis, of certain accounts receivable in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400.0 million as described above, but adds a commitment period during which was entered into onthe banks will be required to purchase such accounts receivable in an aggregate committed amount not to exceed $160.0 million. The commitment period will begin no earlier than February 20, 2016 and end no later than June 30, 201117, 2016, and would have terminated on June 30, 2016 if it had not been terminated early in connection withthe commencement and continuation of the commitment period will be subject to, among other things, the absence of any termination event under the MARP Agreement or any default or event of default under our entry into the current credit facility.
Theagreement. Under the amended and restated terms of the current credit facility include customary representationsMARP Agreement, the banks continue to have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by us at a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%. The MARP Agreement has a termination date of August 26, 2016. There were $122.3 million and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants, and events of default. The proceeds of$84.0 million in short-term borrowings under the current credit facility may be used: (i) to finance working capital requirementsMARP Agreement as of September 30, 2015 and other general corporate purposes of Scotts Miracle-Gro and our subsidiaries; and (ii) to refinance the amounts outstanding under the previous credit agreement. The current credit facility is guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries.
We may use the current credit facility to obtain letters of credit up to an aggregate face amount of $75 million. The current credit facility will terminate on December 20, 2018. At September 30, 2014,, we had letters respectively. As of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3September 30, 2015, there was $2.8 million outstanding, and $1.2 billion of availability under the current credit facility.MARP Agreement. The carrying value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $152.9 million and $113.7 million as of September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively.
On January 15, 2014, we redeemedused a portion of our available former credit facility borrowings to redeem all of theour outstanding $200.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.25% Senior Notes, due 2018 paying a redemption price of $214.5 million, which included $7.25 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $7.25 million of call premium, and $200.0 million for outstanding principal amount. The $7.25 million call premium charge was recognized within the “Costs related to refinancing” line on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations in the Company'sour second quarter of fiscal 2014.2014. Additionally, we had $3.5 million in unamortized bond discount and issuance costs associated with the 7.25% Senior Notes that were written-off and recognized in the “Costs related to refinancing” line on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations in theour second quarter of fiscal 2014.2014. These amounts are reported in the aggregate in the “Costs related to refinancing” line of the Consolidated Statement of Operations for fiscal 2014 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

36




On December 16, 2010, we issued $200.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020. The net proceeds of the offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under our then existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes. The 6.625% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations and rank equal in right of payment with our existing and future unsecured senior debt. The 6.625% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of June 15 and December 15 of each year, which began on June 15, 2011, and may be redeemed prior to maturity starting December 2015 at applicable redemption premiums. The 6.625% Senior Notes contain usual and customary covenants. The 6.625% Senior Notescovenants and mature on December 15, 2020. Substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 6.625% Senior Notes.
On November 13, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro provided an irrevocable notice to the trustee of its election to redeem all of its outstanding 6.625% Senior Notes for a redemption price of $213.2 million, comprised of $6.6 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $6.6 million of call premium, and $200 million for outstanding principal amount. The redemption is expected to be completed in the first quarter of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2016 (“fiscal 2016”).
On October 13, 2015, we issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023. The net proceeds of the offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under our former credit facility. The 6.000% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations and rank equal in right of payment with our existing and future unsecured senior debt. The 6.000% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of April 15 and October 15 of each year, commencing April 15, 2016, and may be redeemed prior to maturity starting October 2018 at applicable redemption premiums. The 6.000% Senior Notes contain usual and customary covenants and mature on October 15, 2023. Substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 6.000% Senior Notes.
We arebelieve we were in compliance with the terms of all debt covenants at as of September 30, 2014. The current2015. Our new credit facilityagreement contains, among other obligations, an affirmative covenant regarding our leverage ratio on the last day of each quarter on and after September 30, 2015, calculated as average totalour net indebtedness as described in the current credit facility, relative to the our EBITDA, asdivided by adjusted pursuant to the terms of the current credit facility (“Adjusted

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Table of Contents

EBITDA”). Under the terms of the current credit facility, theearnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. The maximum allowable leverage ratio was 4.004.50 as of September 30, 20142015. Our leverage ratio was 2.182.63 at September 30, 20142015. Our currentnew credit facilityagreement also includes an affirmative covenant regarding our interest coverage ratio. Interest coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by interest expense, as described in the current credit facility, and excludes costs related to refinancings. Under the terms of the current credit facility, thecoverage. The minimum allowable interest coverage ratio was 3.503.00 for the yeartwelve months ended September 30, 20142015. Our interest coverage ratio was 9.419.34 for the yeartwelve months ended September 30, 20142015. The terms of the new credit agreement allow us to make unlimited restricted payments (as defined), including increased or one-time dividend payments and Common Share repurchases, so long as the leverage ratio resulting from the making of such restricted payments is 4.00 or less. The weighted average interest rates on average debt were 5.0%4.2% and 6.2%5.0% for fiscal 20142015 and fiscal 2013,2014, respectively. Please see “ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details pertaining to the calculations of the foregoing ratios.
We continue to monitor our compliance with the leverage ratio, interest coverage ratio and other covenants contained in the currentnew credit facilityagreement and, based upon our current operating assumptions, we expect to remain in compliance with the permissible leverage ratio and interest coverage ratio throughout fiscal 2015.2016. However, an unanticipated charge toshortfall in earnings, an increase in debtnet indebtedness or other factors could materially affect our ability to remain in compliance with the financial or other covenants of our currentnew credit facility,agreement, potentially causing us to have to seek an amendment or waiver from our lending group which could result in repricing of our current credit facility.facilities. While we believe we have good relationships with our lending group, we can provide no assurance that such a request would result in a modified or replacement credit agreement on reasonable terms, if at all.

37




At September 30, 20142015, we had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions that effectively converted the LIBOR index portion of variable-rate debt denominated in U.S. dollars to a fixed rate. The swap agreements had a total U.S. dollar notional amount of $1,300.0$1,300.0 million at September 30, 20142015. Interest payments made between the effective date and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreements, except as noted below. The notional amount, effective date, expiration date and rate of each of these swap agreements are shown in the table below.

Notional Amount
(in millions)
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 
Effective
Date (a)
 
Expiration
Date
 
Fixed
Rate
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 
Effective
Date (a)
 
Expiration
Date
 
Fixed
Rate
$50
  2/14/2012 2/14/2016 3.78%50
  2/14/2012 2/14/2016 3.78%
150150
(b)  
2/7/2012 5/7/2016 2.42%150
(b)  
2/7/2012 5/7/2016 2.42%
150150
(c)  
11/16/2009 5/16/2016 3.26%150
(c)  
11/16/2009 5/16/2016 3.26%
5050
(b)  
2/16/2010 5/16/2016 3.05%50
(b)  
2/16/2010 5/16/2016 3.05%
100100
(b)  
2/21/2012 5/23/2016 2.40%100
(b)  
2/21/2012 5/23/2016 2.40%
150150
(c)  
12/20/2011 6/20/2016 2.61%150
(c)  
12/20/2011 6/20/2016 2.61%
5050
(d)  
12/6/2012 9/6/2017 2.96%50
(d)  
12/6/2012 9/6/2017 2.96%
200200
 2/7/2014 11/7/2017 1.28%200
 2/7/2014 11/7/2017 1.28%
150150
(b)  
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.12%150
(b)  
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.12%
5050
(c)  
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.25%50
(b)  
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.25%
200200
(c)  
12/20/2016 6/20/2019 2.12%200
(c)  
12/20/2016 6/20/2019 2.12%
(a)The effective date refers to the date on which interest payments were, or will be, first hedged by the applicable swap agreement.
(b)Interest payments made during the three-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.
(c)Interest payments made during the six-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.
(d)Interest payments made during the nine-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.
We maintain a Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which is uncommitted and provides for the discretionary sale by us, and the discretionary purchase by the banks, on a revolving basis, of accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million. On October 25, 2013, we signed an amendment to the existing MARP Agreement which extended the termination date to August 29, 2014. On August 29, 2014, we signed a further amendment to the existing MARP Agreement which extended the termination date to August 28, 2015, or such later date as may be agreed by each bank party thereto and us. Under the terms of the MARP Agreement, the banks have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by us at a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%. There were $84.0 million of short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2014 and $85.3 million of short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2013 under the MARP Agreement. The carrying value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $113.7 million and $106.7 million as of September 30, 2014 and September 30, 2013, respectively.
We believe that our cash flows from operations and borrowings under our capital resourcesagreements described herein will be sufficient to meet debt service, capital expenditures and working capital needs during fiscal 2015, and thereafter for the foreseeable future. However, we cannot ensure that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our credit facilityborrowing agreements in amounts sufficient to pay indebtedness or fund other liquidity needs. Actual results of operations will depend on

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numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control as further discussed in “ITEM“Item 1A. RISK FACTORS — Our indebtedness could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Judicial and Administrative Proceedings
We are party to various pending judicial and administrative proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business, including, among others, proceedings based on accidents or product liability claims and alleged violations of environmental laws. We have reviewed these pending judicial and administrative proceedings, including the probable outcomes, reasonably anticipated costs and expenses, and the availability and limits of our insurance coverage, and have established what we believe to be appropriate reserves. We do not believe that any liabilities that may result from these pending judicial and administrative proceedings are reasonably likely to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows; however, there can be no assurance that future quarterly or annual operating results will not be materially affected by these proceedings, whether as a result of adverse outcomes or as a result of significant defense costs.

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Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our future cash outflows for contractual obligations as of September 30, 20142015:
   Payments Due by Period   Payments Due by Period
Contractual Cash Obligations Total Less Than 1 Year 1-3 Years 4-5 Years 
More Than
5 Years
 Total Less Than 1 Year 1-3 Years 3-5 Years 
More Than
5 Years
 (In millions) (In millions)
Debt obligations $784.3
 $91.9
 $9.2
 $482.8
 $200.4
 $1,163.3
 $134.8
 $11.2
 $817.3
 $200.0
Interest expense on debt obligations 167.1
 38.2
 73.8
 52.3
 2.8
 182.8
 61.7
 92.8
 28.3
 
Operating lease obligations 173.1
 46.4
 62.5
 37.2
 27.0
 228.5
 50.4
 79.7
 55.2
 43.2
Purchase obligations 208.9
 127.1
 69.7
 11.6
 0.5
 213.4
 134.2
 69.7
 9.5
 
Other, primarily retirement plan obligations 93.8
 4.1
 17.5
 18.0
 54.2
 92.5
 3.7
 18.9
 19.1
 50.8
Total contractual cash obligations $1,427.2
 $307.7
 $232.7
 $601.9
 $284.9
 $1,880.5
 $384.8
 $272.3
 $929.4
 $294.0

We have long-term debt obligations and interest payments due primarily under the 6.625% Senior Notes and our current credit facility. Amounts in the table represent scheduled future maturities of long-term debt principal for the periods indicated.
On November 13, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro provided an irrevocable notice to the trustee of its election to redeem all of its outstanding 6.625% Senior Notes for a redemption price of $213.2 million, comprised of $6.6 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $6.6 million of call premium, and $200 million for outstanding principal amount. The redemption is expected to be completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2016.

The interest payments for our current credit facility are based on outstanding borrowings as of September 30, 20142015. Actual interest expense will likely be higher due to the seasonality of our business and associated higher average borrowings.
Purchase obligations primarily represent commitments for materials used in our manufacturing processes, as well as commitments for warehouse services, grass seed and out-sourced information services which comprise the unconditional purchase obligations disclosed in “NOTE 17. COMMITMENTS” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Other obligations include actuarially determined retiree benefit payments and pension funding to comply with local funding requirements. Pension funding requirements beyond fiscal 20142015 are based on preliminary estimates using actuarial assumptions determined as of September 30, 20142015. The above table excludes liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits and insurance accruals as the Company iswe are unable to estimate the timing of payments for these items.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
At September 30, 20142015, the Company hadwe have letters of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3$22.7 million outstanding. Further, the Company haswe have residual value guarantees on Scotts LawnService® vehicles and the corporate aircraft as disclosed in “NOTE 16. OPERATING LEASES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.


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Regulatory Matters
We are subject to local, state, federal and foreign environmental protection laws and regulations with respect to our business operations and believe we are operating in substantial compliance with, or taking actions aimed at ensuring compliance with, such laws and regulations. We are involved in several legal proceedingsactions with various governmental agencies related to environmental matters, including those described in “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and “NOTE 18. CONTINGENCIES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.matters. While it is difficult to quantify the potential financial impact of actions involving these environmental matters, particularly remediation costs at waste disposal sites and future capital expenditures for environmental control equipment, in the opinion of management, the ultimate liability arising from such environmental matters, taking into account established reserves, should not have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, there can be no assurance that the resolution of these matters will not materially affect our future quarterly or annual results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. Additional information on environmental matters affecting us is provided in “ITEM 1. BUSINESS — Regulatory Considerations — Regulatory Matters” and “ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. Certain accounting policies are particularly significant, including those related to revenue recognition, goodwill and intangibles, certain associate benefits and income taxes. We believe these

39




accounting policies, and others set forth in “NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, should be reviewed as they are integral to understanding our results of operations and financial position. Our critical accounting policies are reviewed periodically with the Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro.
The preparation of financial statements requires management to use judgment and make estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to customer programs and incentives, product returns, bad debts, inventories, intangible assets, income taxes, restructuring, environmental matters, contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Although actual results historically have not deviated significantly from those determined using our estimates, our results of operations or financial condition could differ, perhaps materially, from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
Revenue Recognition and Promotional Allowances
Most of our revenue is derived from the sale of inventory, and we recognize revenue when title and risk of loss transfer, generally when products are received by the customer. Provisions for payment discounts, product returns and allowances are recorded as a reduction of sales at the time revenue is recognized based on historical trends and adjusted periodically as circumstances warrant. Similarly, reserves for uncollectible receivables due from customers are established based on management’s judgment as to the ultimate collectability of these balances. We offer sales incentives through various programs, consisting principally of volume rebates, cooperative advertising, consumer coupons and other trade programs. The cost of these programs is recorded as a reduction of sales. The recognition of revenues, receivables and trade programs requires the use of estimates. While we believe these estimates to be reasonable based on the then current facts and circumstances, there can be no assurance that actual amounts realized will not differ materially from estimated amounts recorded.
Income Taxes
Our annual effective tax rate is established based on our pre-tax income (loss), statutory tax rates and the tax impacts of items treated differently for tax purposes than for financial reporting purposes. We record income tax liabilities utilizing known obligations and estimates of potential obligations. A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are future tax effects from existing temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Valuation allowances are used to reduce deferred tax assets to the balances that are more likely than not to be realized. We must make estimates and judgments on future taxable income, considering feasible tax planning strategies and taking into account existing facts and circumstances, to determine the proper valuation allowances. When we determine that deferred tax assets could be realized in greater or lesser amounts than recorded, the asset balance and consolidated statementConsolidated Statements of operationsOperations reflect the change in the period such determination is made. Due to changes in facts and circumstances and the estimates and judgments that are involved in determining the proper valuation allowances, differences between actual future events and prior estimates and judgments could result in adjustments to these valuation allowances. We use an estimate of our annual effective tax rate at each interim period based on the facts and circumstances available at that time, while the actual effective tax rate is calculated at year-end.

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Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, principally determined by the first-in, first-out method of accounting. Inventories include the cost of raw materials, labor, manufacturing overhead and freight and in-bound handling costs incurred to pre-position goods in our warehouse network. Adjustments to net realizable value for excess and obsolete inventory are based on a variety of factors, including product changes and improvements, changes in active ingredient availability and regulatory acceptance, new product introductions and estimated future demand. The adequacy of our adjustments could be materially affected by changes in the demand for our products or regulatory actions.
Long-lived Assets, including Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided on the straight-line method and is based on the estimated useful economic lives of the assets. Intangible assets with finite lives, and therefore subject to amortization, include technology (e.g., patents), customer relationships and certain tradenames. These intangible assets are being amortized over their estimated useful economic lives typically ranging from 3 to 25 years. We review long-lived assets whenever circumstances change such that the recorded value of an asset may not be recoverable and therefore impaired.
Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
We have significant investments in intangible assets and goodwill. Our annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset testing is performed as of the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter or more frequently if circumstances indicate potential impairment.

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In our evaluation of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment, we perform either an initial qualitative or quantitative evaluation for each of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets. Factors considered in the qualitative test include operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the operations or cash flows of the reporting unit and indefinite-lived intangible assets. For the quantitative test, the review for impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets is primarily based on our estimates of discounted future cash flows, which are based upon annual budgets and longer-range strategic plans. These budgets and plans are used for internal purposes and are also the basis for communication with outside parties about future business trends. While we believe the assumptions we use to estimate future cash flows are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the expected future cash flows will be realized. As a result, impairment charges that possibly would have been recognized in earlier periods may not be recognized until later periods if actual results deviate unfavorably from earlier estimates. An asset’s value is deemed impaired if the discounted cash flows or earnings projections generated do not substantiate the carrying value of the asset. The estimation of such amounts requires management to exercise judgment with respect to revenue and expense growth rates, changes in working capital, future capital expenditure requirements and selection of an appropriate discount rate, as applicable. The use of different assumptions would increase or decrease discounted future operating cash flows or earnings projections and could, therefore, change impairment determinations.
Fair value estimates employed in our annual impairment review of indefinite-lived tradenamesintangible assets and goodwill were determined using discounted cash flow models involving several assumptions. Changes in our assumptions could materially impact our fair value estimates. Assumptions critical to our fair value estimates were: (i) discount rates used in determining the fair value of the reporting units and tradenames;intangible assets; (ii) royalty rates used in our tradenameintangible asset valuations; (iii) projected revenue and operating profit growth rates used in the reporting unit and tradenameintangible asset models; and (iv) projected long-term growth rates used in the derivation of terminal year values. These and other assumptions are impacted by economic conditions and expectations of management and may change in the future based on period specific facts and circumstances.
At September 30, 20142015, goodwill totaled $350.9$432.4 million,, with $218.9$283.7 million and $132.0$148.7 million of goodwill for the Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService® segments, respectively. No goodwill impairment was recognized as a result of the annual evaluation performed as of June 29, 2014.28, 2015. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit with a significant goodwill balance was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. If we were to alter our impairment testing by increasing the discount rate in the discounted cash flow analysis by 100 basis points, there still would not be any impairment indicated for anyeither of these reporting units. At September 30, 2014,2015, indefinite-lived intangible assets comprisedconsisted of tradenames totaled $187.3of $184.8 million,. as well as the Marketing Agreement Amendment of $188.3 million and Brand Extension Agreement of $111.7 million which were both acquired during fiscal 2015. With the exception of the Ortho® tradename, each of thesethe tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. The fair value of the Ortho® business was calculated based upon the evaluation of historical performance and future growth expectations. As a result of the annual impairment review in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we concluded that the fair value of the Ortho® tradename exceeded the carrying value of the intangible asset and no impairment was necessary. If we were to increase the discount rate in the Ortho® brand fair value calculation by 100 basis points, the impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment would have been $6.6 million.
During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, as a result of an impairment review, the Companywe recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $33.7 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business. Additionally, the Company performed an annual impairment review in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 and concluded that the fair value of the Ortho® tradename exceeded the carrying value of the intangible asset and no further impairment was necessary. If we were to increase the discount rate in the Ortho® brand fair value calculation by 100 basis points, the resulting non-recurring fair value adjustment would have increased by approximately $10.3 million.

40


Associate Benefits
We sponsor various post-employment benefit plans, including pension plans, both defined contribution plans and defined benefit plans, and other post-employment benefit (“OPEB”) plans, consisting primarily of health care for retirees. For accounting purposes, the defined benefit pension and OPEB plans are dependent on a variety of assumptions to estimate the projected and accumulated benefit obligations and annual expense determined by actuarial valuations. These assumptions include the following: discount rate; expected salary increases; certain employee-related factors, such as turnover, retirement age and mortality; expected return on plan assets; and health care cost trend rates.
Assumptions are reviewed annually for appropriateness and updated as necessary. We base the discount rate assumption on investment yields available at fiscal year-end on high-quality corporate bonds that could be purchased to effectively settle the pension liabilities. The salary growth assumption reflects our long-term actual experience, the near-term outlook and assumed inflation. The expected return on plan assets assumption reflects asset allocation, investment strategy and the views of investment managers regarding the market. Retirement and mortality rates are based primarily on actual and expected plan experience. The effects of actual results that differ from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods.
Changes in the discount rate and investment returns can have a significant effect on the funded status of our pension plans and shareholders’ equity. We cannot predict discount rates or investment returns with certainty and, therefore, cannot determine whether adjustments to our shareholders’ equity for pension-related activity in subsequent years will be significant. We also cannot predict future investment returns, and therefore cannot determine whether future pension plan funding requirements could

41




materially affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. A 100 basis point change in the discount rate would have an immaterial effect on fiscal 20142015 pension expense. A 100 basis point change in the discount rate would have a $56.6$55.6 million change in our projected benefit obligationobligations as of September 30, 2014.2015.
Insurance and Self-Insurance
We maintain insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability and vehicle liability, and are self-insured for employee-related health care benefits up to a specified level for individual claims. We establish reserves for losses based on our claims experience and industry actuarial estimates of the ultimate loss amount inherent in the claims, including losses for claims incurred but not reported. Our estimate of self-insured liabilities is subject to change as new events or circumstances develop which might materially impact the ultimate cost to settle these losses.
Derivative Instruments
In the normal course of business, we are exposed to fluctuations in interest rates, the value of foreign currencies and the cost of commodities. A variety of financial instruments, including forward and swap contracts, are used to manage these exposures. Our objective in managing these exposures is to better control these elements of cost and mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility associated with changes in the applicable rates and prices. We have established policies and procedures that encompass risk-management philosophy and objectives, guidelines for derivative-instrument usage, counterparty credit approval, and the monitoring and reporting of derivative activity. We do not enter into derivative instruments for the purpose of speculation.
Contingencies
As described more fully in “NOTE 18. CONTINGENCIES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we are involved in environmental and legal proceedings which have a high degree of uncertainty associated with them. We continually assess the likely outcome of these proceedings and the adequacy of reserves, if any, provided for their resolution. There can be no assurance that the ultimate outcomes of these proceedings will not differ materially from our current assessment of them, nor that all proceedings that may currently be brought against us are known by us at this time.
Other Significant Accounting Policies
Other significant accounting policies, primarily those with lower levels of uncertainty than those discussed above, are also critical to understanding the consolidated financial statements. The Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K contain additional information related to our accounting policies, including recent accounting pronouncements, and should be read in conjunction with this discussion. 



41


ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
As part of our ongoing business, we are exposed to certain market risks, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. Financial derivative and other instruments are used to manage these risks. These instruments are not used for speculative purposes.
Interest Rate Risk
We had variable rate debt instruments outstanding at September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014 that are impacted by changes in interest rates. As a means of managing our interest rate risk on these debt instruments, we entered into interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions to effectively fix the LIBOR index on certain variable-rate debt obligations.
At each of September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014, we had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with a total U.S. dollar equivalent notional value of $1,300.0 million and $1,100.0 million, respectively.$1,300.0 million. The weighted average fixed rate of swap agreements outstanding at September 30, 20142015 was 2.1%2.0%.
The following table summarizes information about our derivative financial instruments and debt instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates as of September 30, 20142015 and 2013.September 30, 2014. For debt instruments, the table presents principal cash flows and related weighted-average interest rates by expected maturity dates. For interest rate swap agreements, the table presents expected cash flows based on notional amounts and weighted-average interest rates by contractual maturity dates. Weighted-average variable rates are based on rates in effect at September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014. A change in our variable interest rate of 100 basis points for a full twelve-month period would have a $2.5 million impact on interest expense assuming approximately $250 million of our average fiscal 20142015 variable-rate debt had not been hedged via an interest rate swap agreement. The information is presented in U.S. dollars (in millions):

42





  Expected Maturity Date Total 
Fair
Value
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 After 
Long-term debt:                
Fixed rate debt $
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $200.0
 $200.0
 $206.3
Average rate 
 
 
 
 
 6.6% 6.6% 
Variable rate debt $122.3
 $
 $
 $816.3
 $
 $
 $938.6
 $938.6
Average rate 0.9% 
 
 2.3% 
 
 2.1% 
Interest rate derivatives:                
Interest rate swaps $(6.2) $(1.6) $(2.4) $(3.2) $
 $
 $(13.4) $(13.4)
Average rate 2.9% 3.0% 1.3% 2.1% 
 
 2.0% 

  Expected Maturity Date Total 
Fair
Value
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 After 
Long-term debt:                
Fixed rate debt $
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $200.0
 $200.0
 $212.5
Average rate 
 
 
 
 
 6.6% 6.6% 
Variable rate debt $84.0
 $
 $
 $
 $481.8
 $
 $565.8
 $565.8
Average rate 0.9% 
 
 
 1.8% 
 1.6% 
Interest rate derivatives:                
Interest rate swaps $
 $(11.6) $(1.9) $(0.2) $2.2
 $
 $(11.5) $(11.5)
Average rate 
 2.9% 3.0% 1.3% 2.1% 
 2.1% 

  Expected Maturity Date Total 
Fair
Value
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 After 
Long-term debt:                
Fixed rate debt $
 $
 $
 $
 $200.0
 $200.0
 $400.0
 $523.0
Average rate 
 
 
 
 7.3% 6.6% 6.9% 
Variable rate debt $85.3
 $
 $73.0
 $
 $
 $
 $158.3
 $158.3
Average rate 1.0% 
 2.4% 
 
 
 1.7% 
Interest rate derivatives:                
Interest rate swaps $
 $
 $(17.8) $(2.6) $3.7
 $
 $(16.7) $(16.7)
Average rate 
 
 3.0% 3.0% 2.1% 
 2.7% 

Excluded from the information provided above are $18.5$24.7 million and $12.218.5 million at September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014, respectively, of miscellaneous debt instruments.
Other Market Risks
Through fiscal 20142015, we had transactions that were denominated in currencies other than the currency of the country of origin. We use foreign currency swapforward contracts to manage the exchange rate risk associated with intercompany loans with foreign

42


subsidiaries that are denominated in local currencies. At September 30, 2015, the notional amount of outstanding currency forward contracts was $52.3 million with a negative fair value of $0.7 million. At September 30, 2014, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency swapforward contracts was $149.0 millionwith a negative fair value of $0.1 million. At September 30, 2013, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency swap contracts was $80.4 million with a negative fair value of $2.10.1 million.
We are subject to market risk from fluctuating prices of certain raw materials, including urea and other fertilizer inputs, resins, diesel, gasoline, natural gas, sphagnum peat, bark and grass seed. Our objectives surrounding the procurement of these materials are to ensure continuous supply and to control costs. We seek to achieve these objectives through negotiation of contracts with favorable terms directly with vendors. In addition, we entered intouse derivatives to partially mitigate the effect of fluctuating directdiesel and indirect fuelgasoline costs on our Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService® businesses and hedged a portion of our fuel and urea needs for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013.businesses. We had outstanding derivative contracts for 9,030,000 and 10,206,000 gallons of fuel withat September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively. The outstanding derivative contracts had a negative fair value of $3.9 million at September 30, 2015, compared to a negative fair value of $1.4 million at September 30, 2014.2014. We also enter into hedging arrangements designed to fix the price of a portion of our projected future urea requirements of our Global Consumer business. We had outstanding derivative contracts for 7,098,000 gallons of fuel with a negative fair value of $0.3 million at September 30, 2013. We also had outstanding derivative contracts for 58,50052,500 and 49,50058,500 aggregate tons of urea at September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 20132014, respectively. The outstanding derivative contracts for 58,500 aggregate tonshad a negative fair value of $1.3 million at September 30, 2014 had2015, compared to a negative fair value of $0.5 million while the outstanding derivative contracts for 49,500 aggregate tons at September 30, 20132014 had a negative fair value of $2.0 million..

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The financial statements and other information required by this Item are contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules Supporting the Consolidated Financial Statements listed in the “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules” on page 50 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 


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ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.


ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
With the participation of the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (the “Registrant”), the Registrant’s management has evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)), as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based upon that evaluation, the Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The “Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” required by Item 308(a) of SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 51 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” required by Item 308(b) of SEC Regulation S-K is included on page 52 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
No changes in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the Registrant’s fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2014,2015, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.OTHER INFORMATION

None.

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PART III
 
ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Directors, Executive Officers and Persons Nominated or Chosen to Become Directors or Executive Officers
The information required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K concerning the directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro and the nominees for election or re-election as directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on January 29, 201528, 2016 (the “2015“2016 Annual Meeting”) is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s definitive Proxy Statement relating to the 20152016 Annual Meeting (“Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement”), which will be filed pursuant to SEC Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.2015.
The information required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K concerning the executive officers of Scotts Miracle-Gro is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure included under the caption “SUPPLEMENTAL ITEM. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT” in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
The information required by Item 405 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
Procedures for Recommending Director Nominees
Information concerning the procedures by which shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro may recommend nominees to Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Board of Directors is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the captions “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE — Nominations of Directors” and “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Committees of the Board — Nominating and Governance Committee” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement. These procedures have not materially changed from those described in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 20142015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on January 30, 2014.29, 2015.
Audit and Finance Committee
The information required by Items 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the captionscaption “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Committees of the Board” and “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Committees of the Board — Audit and Finance Committee” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
Committee Charters; Code of Business Conduct & Ethics; Corporate Governance Guidelines
The Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro has adopted charters for each of the Audit and Finance Committee, the Nominating and Governance Committee, the Compensation and Organization Committee, the Innovation and Marketing Committee, the Strategy and Business DevelopmentTechnology Committee and the ExecutiveFinance Committee, as well as Corporate Governance Guidelines, as contemplated by the applicable sections of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual.
In accordance with the requirements of Section 303A.10 of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual and Item 406 of SEC Regulation S-K, the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro has adopted a Code of Business Conduct & Ethics covering the members of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Board of Directors and associates (employees) of Scotts Miracle-Gro and its subsidiaries, including, without limitation, Scotts Miracle-Gro’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. Scotts Miracle-Gro intends to disclose the following events, if they occur, on its Internet website located at http://investor.scotts.com within four business days following their occurrence: (A) the date and nature of any amendment to a provision of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Code of Business Conduct & Ethics that (i) applies to Scotts Miracle-Gro’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, (ii) relates to any element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K, and (iii) is not a technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendment; and (B) a description of any waiver (including the nature of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted and the date of the waiver), including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics granted to Scotts Miracle-Gro’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, that relates to one or more of the elements of the code of ethics definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K. In addition, Scotts Miracle-Gro will disclose any waivers from the provisions of the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics granted to an executive officer or a director of Scotts

4445



Miracle-Gro on Scotts Miracle-Gro's Internet website located at http://investor.scotts.com within four business days of the determination to grant any such waiver.
The text of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Code of Business Conduct & Ethics, Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Audit and Finance Committee charter, the Nominating and Governance Committee charter, the Compensation and Organization Committee charter, the Innovation and Marketing Committee charter, the Strategy and Business DevelopmentTechnology Committee charter and the ExecutiveFinance Committee charter are posted under the “Corporate Governance” link on Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Internet website located at http://investor.scotts.com. Interested persons and shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro may also obtain copies of each of these documents without charge by writing to The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Attention: Corporate Secretary, 14111 Scottslawn Road, Marysville, Ohio 43041. In addition, a copy of the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics, as revised effective January 18, 2012, is incorporated by reference in Exhibit 14 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
 

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 402 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the captions “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION,” “NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTOR COMPENSATION,” “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION TABLES,” “SEVERANCE AND CHANGE IN CONTROL (CIC) ARRANGEMENTS,” and “PAYMENTS ON TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT AND/OR CHANGE IN CONTROL” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
The information required by Item 407(e)(4) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Compensation and Organization Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
The information required by Item 407(e)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
 

ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Ownership of Common Shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro
The information required by Item 403 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The information required by Item 201(d) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included under the caption “EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.


ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions
The information required by Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the caption “CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
Director Independence
The information required by Item 407(a) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the captions “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE — Director Independence” and “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.
 


45


ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the captions “AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE MATTERS — Fees of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE MATTERS — Pre-Approval of Services Performed by the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

46



PART IV
 
ITEM 15.EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) LIST OF DOCUMENTS FILED AS PART OF THIS REPORT
1 and 2. Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules:
The response to this portion of Item 15 is submitted as a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Reference is made to the “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules” on page 50 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(b) EXHIBITS
The exhibits listed on the “Index to Exhibits” beginning on page 116119 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are filed or furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K or incorporated herein by reference as noted in the “Index to Exhibits.”
(c) FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
The financial statement schedule filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K is submitted in a separate section hereof. For a description of such financial statement schedules, see “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules” on page 50 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



47



SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
    
 By: /s/    JAMES HAGEDORN 
   
James Hagedorn, President, Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board

Dated: November 25, 201424, 2015
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
 
Signature  Title Date
     
/s/ ALAN H. BARRY*        DirectorNovember 25, 2014
Alan H. Barry
/s/ THOMAS RANDAL COLEMAN  Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President November 25, 201424, 2015
Thomas Randal Coleman (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)  
     
/s/   JAMES HAGEDORN        President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board and Director November 25, 201424, 2015
James Hagedorn (Principal Executive Officer)  
     
/s/   BRIAN D. FINN*        DirectorNovember 24, 2015
Brian D. Finn
/s/   ADAM HANFT*          Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Adam Hanft    
     
/s/   MICHELLE A. JOHNSON*          Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Michelle A. Johnson    
     
/s/   STEPHEN L. JOHNSON*  Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Stephen L. Johnson    
     
/s/   THOMAS N. KELLY JR.*  Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Thomas N. Kelly Jr.    
     
/s/   KATHERINE HAGEDORN LITTLEFIELD*  Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield    

48



Signature  Title Date
     
/s/   JAMES F. MCCANN*

 Director November 25, 201424, 2015
James F. McCann    
     
/s/   NANCY G. MISTRETTA*  Director November 25, 201424, 2015
Nancy G. Mistretta
/s/   MICHAEL E. PORTER*DirectorNovember 25, 2014
Michael E. Porter    
     
/s/   JOHN R. VINES*  Director November 25, 201424, 2015
John R. Vines    
 
*The undersigned, by signing his name hereto, does hereby sign this Report on behalf of each of the directors of the Registrant identified above pursuant to Powers of Attorney executed by the directors identified above, which Powers of Attorney are filed with this Report as exhibits.
 
By:/s/ THOMAS RANDAL COLEMAN 
 Thomas Randal Coleman, Attorney-in-Fact 


49



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
 Page
Consolidated Financial Statements of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and Subsidiaries: 
Schedules Supporting the Consolidated Financial Statements: 

All other financial statement schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information has been presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.

50



ANNUAL REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL
CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries, as appropriate; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the assets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
Management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2014,2015, the end of our fiscal year. Management based its assessment on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Management’s assessment included evaluation of such elements as the design and operating effectiveness of key financial reporting controls, process documentation, accounting policies and our overall control environment. This assessment is supported by testing and monitoring performed under the direction of management. As allowed by the SEC guidance, management excluded from the assessment the internal control over financial reporting at Fafard & Brothers Ltd.General Hydroponics, Inc., Bio-Organic Solutions, Inc. and AeroGrow International,Action Pest Control Inc., which were acquired in fiscal 2014.2015. These acquisitions constituted 3.9%6% of total assets, 0%1% and 2.1%3% of both, revenues and net income, respectively, included in our consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.2015.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluations 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. Accordingly, even an effective system of internal control over financial reporting will provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation.
Based on our assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of September 30, 2014,2015, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. We reviewed the results of management’s assessment with the Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, independently audited our internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 20142015 and has issued their attestation report which appears herein.

/s/    JAMES HAGEDORN     /s/    THOMAS RANDAL COLEMAN  
James Hagedorn
Thomas Randal Coleman
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board 
Thomas Randal Coleman
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
     
Dated:November 25, 201424, 2015 Dated:November 25, 201424, 2015

51



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Marysville, Ohio

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 20142015 and 2013,2014, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2014.2015. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules.at Item 15. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’sCompany's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidatedthe financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

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

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 20142015 and 2013,2014, and the results of itstheir operations and itstheir cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2014,2015, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2014,2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated November 25, 201424, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’sCompany's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP 
  
Columbus, Ohio 
November 25, 201424, 2015 


52



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Marysville, Ohio

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and subsidiaries (the "Company"“Company”) as of September 30, 2014,2015, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. As described in Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management excluded from its assessment the internal control over financial reporting at the following subsidiaries which were acquired in 2014: Fafard & Brothers Ltd.2015: General Hydroponics, Inc., Bio-Organic Solutions, Inc. and AeroGrow International,Action Pest Control Inc. which were acquired in fiscal 2014.2015. These acquisitions constituted 3.9%6% of total assets, 0%1% and 2.1%3% of both, revenues and net income, respectively, included in the consolidated financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.2015. Accordingly, our audit did not include the internal control over financial reporting at these subsidiaries.General Hydroponics, Inc., Bio-Organic Solutions, Inc. and Action Pest Control Inc. The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. 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 the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the 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 Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2014,2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992)(2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules as of and for the year ended September 30, 20142015 of the Company and our report dated November 25, 201424, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedules.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
November 25, 2014

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Columbus, Ohio
November 24, 2015

53



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In millions, except per share data)
 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Net sales$2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
$3,016.5
 $2,841.3
 $2,773.7
Cost of sales1,809.9
 1,793.3
 1,813.5
1,945.0
 1,809.9
 1,793.3
Cost of sales—impairment, restructuring and other
 2.2
 
6.6
 
 2.2
Cost of sales—product registration and recall matters
 
 0.4
Gross profit1,031.4
 978.2
 956.6
1,064.9
 1,031.4
 978.2
Operating expenses:          
Selling, general and administrative680.5
 659.6
 703.3
698.4
 680.5
 659.6
Impairment, restructuring and other51.0
 18.1
 7.1
78.0
 51.0
 18.1
Product registration and recall matters
 
 7.8
Other income, net(14.7) (10.0) (2.8)(6.1) (14.7) (10.0)
Income from operations314.6
 310.5
 241.2
294.6
 314.6
 310.5
Costs related to refinancing10.7
 
 

 10.7
 
Interest expense47.3
 59.2
 61.8
50.5
 47.3
 59.2
Income from continuing operations before income taxes256.6
 251.3
 179.4
244.1
 256.6
 251.3
Income tax expense from continuing operations91.2
 91.9
 67.8
85.4
 91.2
 91.9
Income from continuing operations165.4
 159.4
 111.6
158.7
 165.4
 159.4
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax0.8
 1.7
 (5.1)
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
 0.8
 1.7
Net income$166.2
 $161.1
 $106.5
$158.7
 $166.2
 $161.1
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest0.3
 
 
1.1
 0.3
 
Net income attributable to controlling interest$166.5
 $161.1
 $106.5
$159.8
 $166.5
 $161.1
          
Basic income per common share:          
Income from continuing operations$2.69
 $2.58
 $1.83
$2.62
 $2.69
 $2.58
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.03
 (0.08)
Income from discontinued operations
 0.01
 0.03
Basic net income per common share$2.70
 $2.61
 $1.75
$2.62
 $2.70
 $2.61
Diluted income per common share:          
Income from continuing operations$2.64
 $2.55
 $1.80
$2.57
 $2.64
 $2.55
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.02
 (0.09)
Income from discontinued operations
 0.01
 0.02
Diluted net income per common share$2.65
 $2.57
 $1.71
$2.57
 $2.65
 $2.57

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


54



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(In millions)
 

Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Net income$166.2
 $161.1
 $106.5
$158.7
 $166.2
 $161.1
Other comprehensive income (loss):          
Net foreign currency translation adjustment(8.2) (5.2) 2.3
(14.2) (8.2) (5.2)
Net unrealized losses on derivative instruments, net of tax of $3.0, $2.1 and $6.2 for fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively(4.9) (3.3) (9.3)
Reclassification of net unrealized losses on derivatives to net income, net of tax of $5.9, $5.4 and $5.6 for fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively9.5
 8.4
 8.4
Net unrealized gains (loss) in pension and other post retirement benefits, net of tax of $4.9, $2.4 and $0.4 for fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively(7.9) 5.8
 3.6
Reclassification of net pension and post-retirement benefit income (loss) to net income, net of tax of $1.9, $2.3 and $2.2 for fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively3.1
 3.8
 (14.3)
Net unrealized losses on derivative instruments, net of tax of $5.3, $3.0 and $2.1 for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively(8.6) (4.9) (3.3)
Reclassification of net unrealized losses on derivatives to net income, net of tax of $4.0, $5.9 and $5.4 for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively6.5
 9.5
 8.4
Net unrealized gains (losses) in pension and other post retirement benefits, net of tax of $4.6, $4.9 and ($2.4) for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively(7.4) (7.9) 5.8
Reclassification of net pension and post-retirement benefit income to net income, net of tax of $1.9, $1.9 and $2.3 for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively3.1
 3.1
 3.8
Total other comprehensive income (loss)(8.4) 9.5
 (9.3)(20.6) (8.4) 9.5
Comprehensive income$157.8
 $170.6
 $97.2
$138.1
 $157.8
 $170.6


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


55



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In millions)
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
OPERATING ACTIVITIES          
Net income$166.2
 $161.1
 $106.5
$158.7
 $166.2
 $161.1
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:          
Impairment, restructuring and other33.7
 16.2
 5.3
4.3
 33.7
 16.2
Costs related to refinancing3.5
 
 

 3.5
 
Share-based compensation expense11.1
 10.3
 12.5
13.2
 11.1
 10.3
Depreciation50.6
 54.9
 51.5
51.4
 50.6
 54.9
Amortization13.8
 11.2
 10.9
17.6
 13.8
 11.2
Deferred taxes12.1
 24.2
 24.2
1.3
 12.1
 24.2
Loss (gain) on sale of long-lived assets1.1
 (2.1) 0.1

 1.1
 (2.1)
Gain on sale of business(1.4) 
 

 (1.4) 
(Gain) loss on investment of unconsolidated affiliate(5.7) 0.4
 

 (5.7) 0.4
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquired businesses:          
Accounts receivable(29.4) 17.9
 (6.9)(12.5) (29.4) 17.9
Inventories(38.7) 89.0
 (23.1)(17.5) (38.7) 89.0
Prepaid and other assets(3.2) 0.3
 17.3
1.8
 (3.2) 0.3
Accounts payable52.6
 (5.2) (6.9)6.9
 52.6
 (5.2)
Other current liabilities(22.9) 5.4
 (15.9)12.9
 (22.9) 5.4
Restructuring reserves4.9
 (8.1) (19.4)12.1
 4.9
 (8.1)
Other non-current items(14.6) (32.6) (9.0)(3.4) (14.6) (32.6)
Other, net7.2
 (0.9) 6.3
0.1
 7.2
 (0.9)
Net cash provided by operating activities240.9
 342.0
 153.4
246.9
 240.9
 342.0
INVESTING ACTIVITIES          
Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets3.7
 3.6
 0.7
5.5
 3.7
 3.6
Proceeds from sale of business, net of transaction costs7.2
 
 

 7.2
 
Investments in property, plant and equipment(87.6) (60.1) (69.4)(61.7) (87.6) (60.1)
Proceeds from sale and leaseback transaction35.1
 
 

 35.1
 
Investment in unconsolidated affiliate
 (4.5) 

 
 (4.5)
Investment in marketing and license agreement(300.0) 
 
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired(114.0) (3.2) (7.0)(180.2) (114.0) (3.2)
Net cash used in investing activities(155.6) (64.2) (75.7)(536.4) (155.6) (64.2)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES          
Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans1,932.8
 1,474.8
 1,684.0
1,836.0
 1,932.8
 1,474.8
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans(1,525.3) (1,682.1) (1,694.6)(1,458.0) (1,525.3) (1,682.1)
Repayment of 7.25% senior notes(200.0) 
 

 (200.0) 
Financing and issuance fees(6.1) 
 
(0.5) (6.1) 
Dividends paid(230.8) (87.8) (75.4)(111.3) (230.8) (87.8)
Purchase of Common Shares(120.0) 
 (17.5)(14.8) (120.0) 
Payments on sellers notes(0.8) (0.8) 
(1.5) (0.8) (0.8)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements5.9
 2.0
 6.6
4.7
 5.9
 2.0
Cash received from exercise of stock options20.0
 13.3
 17.6
24.3
 20.0
 13.3
Net cash used in financing activities(124.3) (280.6) (79.3)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities278.9
 (124.3) (280.6)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash(1.5) 0.7
 2.6
(7.3) (1.5) 0.7
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(40.5) (2.1) 1.0
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents(17.9) (40.5) (2.1)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year129.8
 131.9
 130.9
89.3
 129.8
 131.9
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$89.3
 $129.8
 $131.9
$71.4
 $89.3
 $129.8
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION          
Interest paid$(46.9) $(56.6) $(48.6)$(47.6) $(46.9) $(56.6)
Call premium on 7.25% senior notes(7.3) 
 

 (7.3) 
Income taxes paid(55.3) (44.0) (79.6)(108.3) (55.3) (44.0)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

56



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In millions, except stated value per share)
 
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
ASSETS
Current assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$89.3
 $129.8
$71.4
 $89.3
Accounts receivable, less allowances of $7.5 in 2014 and $9.5 in 2013224.0
 206.6
Accounts receivable, less allowances of $8.7 in 2015 and $7.5 in 2014191.3
 224.0
Accounts receivable pledged113.7
 106.7
152.9
 113.7
Inventories385.1
 324.9
407.6
 385.1
Prepaid and other current assets122.9
 113.0
125.4
 122.9
Total current assets935.0
 881.0
948.6
 935.0
Property, plant and equipment, net437.0
 422.3
453.7
 437.0
Goodwill350.9
 315.1
432.4
 350.9
Intangible assets, net302.7
 284.4
663.5
 302.7
Other assets32.7
 34.4
29.0
 32.7
Total assets$2,058.3
 $1,937.2
$2,527.2
 $2,058.3
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:      
Current portion of debt$91.9
 $92.4
$134.8
 $91.9
Accounts payable193.3
 137.7
197.9
 193.3
Other current liabilities259.5
 279.7
280.4
 259.5
Total current liabilities544.7
 509.8
613.1
 544.7
Long-term debt692.4
 478.1
1,028.5
 692.4
Other liabilities254.0
 238.8
252.5
 254.0
Total liabilities1,491.1
 1,226.7
1,894.1
 1,491.1
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 16, 17 and 18)
 

 
Shareholders’ equity:      
Common shares and capital in excess of $.01 stated value per share; shares outstanding of 60.7 in 2014 and 62.0 in 2013395.3
 397.5
Common shares and capital in excess of $.01 stated value per share; shares outstanding of 61.4 in 2015 and 60.7 in 2014400.4
 395.3
Retained earnings636.9
 703.4
684.2
 636.9
Treasury shares, at cost; 7.4 shares in 2014 and 6.1 shares in 2013(392.3) (312.6)
Treasury shares, at cost; 6.7 shares in 2015 and 7.4 shares in 2014(357.1) (392.3)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(86.2) (77.8)(106.8) (86.2)
Total shareholders’ equity - controlling interest553.7
 710.5
620.7
 553.7
Noncontrolling interest13.5
 
12.4
 13.5
Total equity$567.2
 $710.5
$633.1
 $567.2
Total liabilities and equity$2,058.3
 $1,937.2
$2,527.2
 $2,058.3

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
    

57



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(In millions, except per share data)

Common Shares Capital in Excess of Stated Value Retained Earnings Treasury Shares Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss)   Non-controlling Interest  Common Shares Capital in Excess of Stated Value Retained Earnings Treasury Shares Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss)   Non-controlling Interest  
Shares Amount Shares Amount Total TotalShares Amount Shares Amount Total Total
Balance at September 30, 201168.1
 $0.3
 $426.8
 $599.2
 7.5
 $(388.5) $(78.0) $559.8
 $
 $559.8
Net income      106.5
       106.5
   106.5
Other comprehensive loss            (9.3) (9.3)   (9.3)
Share-based compensation    12.5
         12.5
   12.5
Dividends declared ($1.225 per share)      (75.4)       (75.4)   (75.4)
Treasury share purchases        0.4
 (17.5)   (17.5)   (17.5)
Treasury share issuances    (31.2)   (1.1) 56.4
   25.2
   25.2
Other    0.2
 (0.1)       0.1
   0.1
Balance at September 30, 201268.1
 0.3
 408.3
 630.2
 6.8
 (349.6) (87.3) 601.9
 
 601.9
68.1
 $0.3
 $408.3
 $630.2
 6.8
 $(349.6) $(87.3) $601.9
 $
 $601.9
Net income      161.1
       161.1
   161.1
      161.1
       161.1
   161.1
Other comprehensive income            9.5
 9.5
   9.5
            9.5
 9.5
   9.5
Share-based compensation    10.3
         10.3
   10.3
    10.3
         10.3
   10.3
Dividends declared ($1.4125 per share)      (87.8)       (87.8)   (87.8)      (87.8)       (87.8)   (87.8)
Treasury share purchases        

 

   

   

Treasury share issuances    (21.4)   (0.7) 37.0
   15.6
   15.6
    (21.4)   (0.7) 37.0
   15.6
   15.6
Other      (0.1)       (0.1)   (0.1)    

 (0.1)       (0.1)   (0.1)
Balance at September 30, 201368.1
 0.3
 397.2
 703.4
 6.1
 (312.6) (77.8) 710.5
 
 710.5
68.1
 0.3
 397.2
 703.4
 6.1
 (312.6) (77.8) 710.5
 
 710.5
Net income (loss)      166.5
       166.5
 (0.3) 166.2
      166.5
       166.5
 (0.3) 166.2
Other comprehensive loss            (8.4) (8.4)   (8.4)            (8.4) (8.4)   (8.4)
Share-based compensation    11.1
         11.1
   11.1
    11.1
         11.1
   11.1
Dividends declared ($3.7625 per share)      (233.0)       (233.0)   (233.0)      (233.0)       (233.0)   (233.0)
Treasury share purchases        2.1
 (120.0)   (120.0)   (120.0)        2.1
 (120.0)   (120.0)   (120.0)
Treasury share issuances    (13.3)   (0.8) 40.3
   27.0
   27.0
    (13.3)   (0.8) 40.3
   27.0
   27.0
Investment in noncontrolling interest                13.8
 13.8
      

       

 13.8
 13.8
Balance at September 30, 201468.1
 $0.3
 $395.0
 $636.9
 7.4
 $(392.3) $(86.2) $553.7
 $13.5
 $567.2
68.1
 0.3
 395.0
 636.9
 7.4
 (392.3) (86.2) 553.7
 13.5
 567.2
Net income (loss)      159.8
       159.8
 (1.1) 158.7
Other comprehensive loss            (20.6) (20.6)   (20.6)
Share-based compensation    17.5
         17.5
   17.5
Dividends declared ($1.8200 per share)      (112.5)       (112.5)   (112.5)
Treasury share purchases        0.2
 (14.8)   (14.8)   (14.8)
Treasury share issuances    (12.4)   (0.9) 50.0
   37.6
   37.6
Balance at September 30, 201568.1
 $0.3
 $400.1
 $684.2
 6.7
 $(357.1) $(106.8) $620.7
 $12.4
 $633.1

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

58



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Operations
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (“Scotts Miracle-Gro” or “Parent”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, together with Scotts Miracle-Gro, the “Company”) are engaged in the manufacturing, marketing and sale of consumer branded products for lawn and garden care. The Company’s primary customers include home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers, and food and drug stores, and indoor gardening and hydroponic stores. The Company’s products are sold primarily in North America and the European Union. The Company also operates the Scotts LawnService® business, which provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree and shrub care and pest control services in the United States.
In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of its U.S. and Canadian wild bird food business. As a result, of the sale, effective in the Company’s second quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company classified its results of operations for all periods presented to reflect the wild bird food business as a discontinued operation. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed the wind down of the Company's professional seed business ("Pro Seed"). As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company classified Pro Seed as a discontinued operation.
In fiscal 2012, the Company incurred product registration and recall costs of $8.2 million. Fiscal 2012 costs include reserves that were established in connection with the previously disclosed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the “U.S. EPA”) and U.S. Department of Justice (the “U.S. DOJ”) investigations into pesticide product registration issues, which, as previously disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, were settled in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. The Company does not expect to incur any additional costs related to these investigations.
Due to the nature of the consumer lawn and garden business, the majority of sales to customers occur in the Company’s second and third fiscal quarters. On a combined basis, net sales for the second and third quarters of the last three fiscal years represented in excess of 75% of annual net sales.
Organization and Basis of Presentation
The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Scotts Miracle-Gro and its subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company’s consolidation criteria are based on majority ownership (as evidenced by a majority voting interest in the entity) and an objective evaluation and determination of effective management control. AeroGrow International, Inc. (“AeroGrow”), in which the Company ownshas a controlling interest, is consolidated, with the equity owned by other shareholders shown as noncontrolling interest in the consolidated balance sheets, and the other shareholders' portion of net earnings and other comprehensive income is shown as net earningsincome/loss or comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest in the consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of earningsOperations and consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of comprehensive income,Comprehensive Income (Loss), respectively.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.notes and related disclosures. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions the Company may undertake in the future, actual results ultimately may differ from the estimates.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognized when title and risk of loss transfer, which generally occurs when products or services are received by the retail customer. Provisions for estimated returns and allowances are recorded at the time revenue is recognized based on historical rates and are periodically adjusted for known changes in return levels. Outbound shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales.
Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement”) between the Company and Monsanto Company (“Monsanto”), the Company in its role as exclusive agent, performs certain functions, primarily manufacturing conversion services (in North America), distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support, on behalf of Monsanto in the conduct of the consumer Roundup® business. The actual costs incurred for these activities are charged to and reimbursed by theMonsanto. The Company on behalf of the consumer Roundup® business are recovered from Monsanto through the terms ofrecords costs incurred under the Marketing Agreement. The reimbursement of costsAgreement for which the Company is considered the primary obligor is includedon a gross basis, recognizing such costs in “Cost of sales” and the reimbursement of these costs in “Net sales,” with no effect on gross profit dollars or net sales.income.

59

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Promotional Allowances
The Company promotes its branded products through, among other things, cooperative advertising programs with retailers. Retailers may also be offered in-store promotional allowances and rebates based on sales volumes. Certain products are promoted with direct consumer rebate programs and special purchasing incentives. Promotion costs (including allowances and rebates) incurred during the year are expensed to interim periods in relation to revenues and are recorded as a reduction of net sales. Accruals for expected payouts under these programs are included in the “Other current liabilities” line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Advertising
Advertising costs incurred during the year by our Global Consumer segment are expensed to interim periods in relation to revenues. All advertising costs, except for external production costs, are expensed within the fiscal year in which such costs are incurred. External production costs for advertising programs are deferred until the period in which the advertising is first aired. The costs deferred at September 30, 2015 and 2014 were $0.7 million and $1.9 million. There were no costs deferred at September 30, 2013.million, respectively.
Scotts LawnService® promotes its service offerings through direct mail and direct selling campaigns. External costs associated with these campaigns that qualify as direct response advertising costs are deferred and recognized as advertising expense in proportion to revenues over a period not beyond the end of the immediately following calendar year. Costs that do not qualify as direct response advertising costs are expensed within the fiscal year incurred on a monthly basis in proportion to net sales. The costs deferred at September 30, 20142015 and 2014 were $1.5 million and $1.3 million. There were no costs deferred at September 30, 2013.million, respectively.
Advertising expenses were $146.1 million in fiscal 2015, $143.6 million in fiscal 2014, and $142.2 million in fiscal 2013 and $168.9 million in fiscal 2012.
Research and Development
All costs associated with research and development are charged to expense as incurred. Expenses for fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013 were $48.4$46.8 million, $46.448.4 million and $50.146.4 million, respectively, including product registration costs of $12.6$13.1 million, $12.412.6 million and $14.012.4 million, respectively.
Environmental Costs
The Company recognizes environmental liabilities when conditions requiring remediation are probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. Expenditures which extend the life of the related property or mitigate or prevent future environmental contamination are capitalized. Environmental liabilities are not discounted or reduced for possible recoveries from insurance carriers.
Share-Based Compensation Awards
The fair value of awards is expensed over the requisite service period which is typically the vesting period, generally three years, except in cases where employees are eligible for accelerated vesting based on having satisfied retirement requirements relating to age and years of service. Performance-based awards are expensed over the requisite service period based on achievement of performance criteria. The Company uses a binomial model to determine the fair value of its option grants. The Company classifies share-based compensation expense within selling, general and administrative expenses to correspond with the same line item as cash compensation paid to employees.
Earnings per Common Share
Basic earnings per Common Share is computed based on the weighted-average number of Common Shares outstanding each period. Diluted earnings per Common Share is computed based on the weighted-average number of Common Shares and dilutive potential Common Shares (stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance shares restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards) outstanding each period.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains cash deposits in banks which from time to time exceed the amount of deposit insurance available. Management periodically assesses the financial condition of the Company’s banks and believes that the risk of any potential credit loss is minimal.

60

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Accounts Receivable and Allowances
Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. Allowances for doubtful accounts reflect the Company’s estimate of amounts in its existing accounts receivable that may not be collected due to customer claims or customer inability or unwillingness to pay. The allowance is determined based on a combination of factors, including the Company’s risk assessment regarding the credit worthiness of its customers, historical collection experience and length of time the receivables are past due. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when the Company believes it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, principally determined by the first in, first out method of accounting. Inventories include the cost of raw materials, labor, manufacturing overhead and freight and in-bound handling costs incurred to pre-position goods in the Company’s warehouse network. The Company makes provisions for obsolete or slow-moving inventories as necessary to properly reflect inventory at the lower of cost or market value. Adjustments to reflect inventories at net realizable values were $18.4$17.8 million and $19.718.4 million at September 30, 20142015 and 20132014, respectively.
Long-lived Assets
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Interest capitalized in property, plant and equipment amounted to $0.4 million, $0.4 million, and $0.8 million and $0.9 millionduring fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. When properties are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost of the asset and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts with the resulting gain or loss being reflected in income from operations.
 
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided on the straight-line method and is based on the estimated useful economic lives of the assets as follows: 
Land improvements10 –25– 25 years
Buildings10 –40– 40 years
Machinery and equipment–15– 15 years
Furniture and fixtures–10– 10 years
Software3 – 8 years

Intangible assets subject to amortization include technology, such as patents, customer relationships, non-compete agreements and certain tradenames. These intangible assets are being amortized over their estimated useful economic lives, which typically range from 3 to 25 years. The Company’s fixed assets and intangible assets subject to amortization are required to be tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that carrying amounts may not be recoverable. If an evaluation of recoverability was required, the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated with the asset would be compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if a write-down is required. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds fair value and classified as “Impairment, restructuring and other charges” within “Operating expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Company had noncash investing activities of $8.5 million, $7.0 million, $7.3 million and $17.3$7.3 million during fiscal 2014,2015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 2013, respectively, representing unpaid liabilities incurred during each fiscal year to acquire property, plant and equipment.
Internal Use Software
The costs of internal use software are expensed or capitalized depending on whether they are incurred in the preliminary project stage, application development stage or the post-implementation/operation stage. As of September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 2013,2014, the Company had $21.8$18.6 million and $17.5$21.8 million,, respectively, in unamortized capitalized internal use computer software costs. Amortization of these costs was $8.3$6.0 million,$8.3 million and $7.3 million and $8.0 millionduring fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively.

61

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment by applying a fair-value based test on an annual basis, as of the first day of the Company’s fiscal fourth quarter, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. With respect to goodwill, the Company performs either a qualitative or quantitative evaluation for each of its reporting units. Factors considered in the qualitative test include reporting unit specific operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the operations of the reporting units. For the quantitative test, the Company assesses goodwill for impairment by comparing the carrying value of its reporting units to their respective fair values and reviewing the Company’s market value of invested capital. A reporting unit is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. The Company has identified six reporting units. The Company determines the fair value of its reporting units under the income-based approach utilizing discounted cash flows and incorporates assumptions it believes marketplace participants would utilize. The Company also uses a comparative market-based approach using market multiples and other factors to corroborate the discounted cash flow results used.
With respect to indefinite-lived intangible assets, the Company performs either a qualitative or quantitative evaluation for each of its indefinite-lived intangible assets. Factors considered in the qualitative test include indefinite-lived intangible asset specific operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the cash flows of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. For the quantitative test, the value of all indefinite-lived intangible assets is determined under the income-based approach utilizing discounted cash flows and incorporating assumptions the Company believes marketplace participants would utilize. For tradenames, value was determined using a royalty savings methodology similar to that employed when the associated businesses were acquired but using updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability. If it is determined that an impairment has occurred, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value and classified as “Impairment, restructuring and other charges” within “Operating expenses” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Insurance and Self-Insurance
The Company maintains insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability and vehicle liability, and is self-insured for employee-related health care benefits up to a specified level for individual claims. The Company accrues for the expected costs associated with these risks by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other relevant information. Costs are recognized in the period the claim is incurred, and accruals include an actuarially determined estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported.
Income Taxes
The Company uses the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the anticipated future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement amounts and their respective tax bases. Management reviews the Company’s deferred tax assets to determine whether their value can be realized based upon available evidence. A valuation allowance is established when management believes that it is more likely than not that some portion of its deferred tax assets will not be realized. Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in the Company’s tax provision in the period of change.
The Company establishes a liability for tax return positions in which there is uncertainty as to whether or not the position will ultimately be sustained. Amounts for uncertain tax positions are adjusted in quarters when new information becomes available or when positions are effectively settled. The Company recognizes interest expense and penalties related to these unrecognized tax benefits within income tax expense.
U.S. income tax expense and foreign withholding taxes are provided on unremitted foreign earnings that are not indefinitely reinvested at the time the earnings are generated. Where foreign earnings are indefinitely reinvested, no provision for U.S. income or foreign withholding taxes is made. When circumstances change and the Company determines that some or all of the undistributed earnings will be remitted in the foreseeable future, the Company accrues an expense in the current period for U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes attributable to the anticipated remittance.





62

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Translation of Foreign Currencies
The functional currency for each Scotts Miracle-Gro subsidiary is generally its local currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate in effect at each fiscal year-end. Income and expense accounts are translated at the average rate of exchange prevailing during the year. Translation gains and losses arising from the use of differing exchange rates from period to period are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within shareholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the determination of net income and classified as “Other (income) expense,income, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

62

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Derivative Instruments
In the normal course of business, theThe Company is exposed to fluctuationsmarket risks, such as changes in interest rates, the value of foreign currenciescurrency exchange rates and the cost of commodities.commodity prices. A variety of financial instruments, including forward and swap contracts, are used to manage these exposures. These financial instruments are recognized at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and all changes in fair value are recognized in net income or shareholders’ equity through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The Company’s objective in managing these exposures is to better control these elements of cost and mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility associated with changes in the applicable rates and prices.
The Company has established policies and procedures that encompass risk-management philosophy and objectives, guidelines for derivative-instrument usage, counterparty credit approval, and the monitoring and reporting of derivative activity. The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for the purpose of speculation.
The Company formally designates and documents instruments at inception that qualify for hedge accounting of underlying exposures in accordance with GAAP. The Company formally assesses, both at inception and at least quarterly, whether the financial instruments used in hedging transactions are effective at offsetting changes in cash flows of the related underlying exposure. Fluctuations in the value of these instruments generally are offset by changes in the cash flows of the underlying exposures being hedged. This offset is driven by the high degree of effectiveness between the exposure being hedged and the hedging instrument. GAAP requires all derivative instruments to be recognized as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company designates commodity hedges as cash flow hedges of forecasted purchases of commodities and interest rate swap agreements as cash flow hedges of interest payments on variable rate borrowings. Any ineffective portion of a change in the fair value of a qualifying instrument is immediately recognized in earnings.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Revenue Recognition from Contracts with Customers
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This guidance requires companies to recognize revenue in a manner that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in amounts that reflect the consideration to which a company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new standard also will result in enhanced disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. The provisions are effective for the Company's financial statements forno later than the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2017.2018. The standard allows for either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective transition method. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this standard on its consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
Balance Sheet Offsetting
In December 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to accounting guidance on the presentation of offsetting of derivatives, and financial assets and liabilities. The amended guidance requires quantitative disclosures regarding the gross amounts and their location within the consolidated balance sheets. The provisions were effective for the Company's financial statements for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2013. The adoption of the amended guidance did not have a significant impact on the Company's financial statements and related disclosures.
Discontinued Operations Reporting
In April 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that amends the accounting guidance related to discontinued operations. This amendment defines discontinued operations as a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. This amendment also introduces new disclosures for disposals that do not meet the criteria of discontinued operations. The provisions are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2014 and apply to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale after the effective date. The adoption of the amended guidance impacts presentation and disclosure of future divestitures and did not have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

63

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Going Concern
In April 2014, the FASB issued a new accounting standard that requires management to assess if there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern for each annual and interim period. If conditions or events give rise to substantial doubt, disclosures are required. The new accounting standard will be effective as of December 31, 2016 and is not expected to have an impact on the Company's financial statement disclosures.
Inventory
In July 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that requires inventory to be measured “at the lower of cost and net realizable value,” thereby simplifying the current guidance that requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost or market (market in this context is defined as one of three different measures, one of which is net realizable value). The provisions are effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Debt Issuance Costs
In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the corresponding debt liability rather than as an asset. The provisions are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and require retrospective application. The adoption of the amended guidance impacts presentation and disclosure of debt issuance costs and is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. As of September 30, 2015, the Company had unamortized debt issuance costs of $11.3 million.
Cloud Computing Arrangements
In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update that clarifies how customers in cloud computing arrangements should determine whether the arrangement includes a software license, and requires acquired software licenses to be accounted for as licenses of intangible assets. The provisions are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Business Combinations
In September 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard update to simplify the accounting for measurement-period adjustments by requiring an acquirer to recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, and requiring disclosure of the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. The provisions are effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning no later than December 15, 2016 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 2.  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Wild Bird Food
In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of its U.S. and Canadian wild bird food business, including intangible assets, certain on-hand inventory and fixed assets, for $4.1 million in cash and an estimated $1.0 million in future earn-out payments. As a result, effective in the second quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company classified its results of operations for all periods presented to reflect the wild bird food business as a discontinued operation. In addition, in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company received $3.1 million for the sale of the remaining wild bird food manufacturing facilities resulting in a gain of $1.2 million.
Pro Seed
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed the wind down of the Company's professional seed business. As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company classified its results of operations for all periods presented to reflect the professional seed business as a discontinued operation. In fiscal 2013, the Company recorded a $0.1 million loss related to the wind-down of the professional seed business. The Company recorded restructuring and other charges of $0.1 million and $3.4 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively, related to termination benefits provided to employees and other restructuring charges. The Company also recorded a $0.5 million impairment charge related to the investment in Turf-Seed (Europe) Limited in fiscal 2012.
The following table summarizes the results of the wild bird food and Pro Seed businesses asbusiness within discontinued operations: 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Net sales$18.1
 $42.8
 $82.3
$
 $18.1
 $42.8
Operating costs17.6
 40.4
 85.9

 17.6
 40.4
Impairment, restructuring and other
 
 0.6
Gain on sale of assets(1.2) 
 

 (1.2) 
Other (income) expense, net
 
 0.3
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes1.7
 2.4
 (4.5)
Income from discontinued operations before income taxes
 1.7
 2.4
Income tax expense from discontinued operations0.9
 0.7
 0.6

 0.9
 0.7
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax$0.8
 $1.7
 $(5.1)
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax$
 $0.8
 $1.7

NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES
Activity described herein is classified within the “Impairment, restructuring and other” lines in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The following table details impairment, restructuring and other charges during fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013: 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Restructuring and other$17.3
 $4.4
 $1.8
$84.6
 $17.3
 $4.4
Property, plant and equipment impairments
 
 2.1
Goodwill and intangible asset impairments33.7
 15.9
 3.2

 33.7
 15.9
Total impairment, restructuring and other$51.0
 $20.3
 $7.1
$84.6
 $51.0
 $20.3

The following table summarizes the activity related to liabilities associated with the restructuring and other charges during fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013:
 Year Ended September 30,
 2015 2014 2013
 (In millions)
Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at beginning of year$16.0
 $11.1
 $10.2
Restructuring and other charges84.6
 17.3
 9.1
Payments and other(72.5) (12.4) (8.2)
Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at end of year$28.1
 $16.0
 $11.1

Included in the restructuring reserves as of September 30, 2015, is $4.0 million that is classified as long-term. Payments against the long-term reserves will be incurred as the employees covered by the restructuring plan retire or through the passage of time. The remaining amounts reserved will continue to be paid out over the course of the next twelve months.


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following table summarizes the activity related to liabilities associated with the restructuring and other charges during fiscal 2014, fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012:
 Year Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (In millions)
Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at beginning of year$11.1
 $10.2
 $29.6
Restructuring and other charges17.3
 9.1
 1.8
Restructuring and other in discontinued operations
 
 0.1
Payments and other(12.4) (8.2) (21.3)
Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at end of year$16.0
 $11.1
 $10.2
Fiscal 2015

During fiscal 2015, the Company recognized $22.2 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to U.S. and international personnel as part of the Company's restructuring of its U.S. administrative and overhead functions, the continuation of the international profitability improvement initiative, and the liquidation and exit from the U.K. Solus business. The restructuring charges include $4.3 million of costs related to the acceleration of equity compensation expense for fiscal 2015. Included within the restructuring charges for fiscal 2015 were $14.3 million for the Global Consumer segment, $1.3 million for the Scotts LawnService® segment, and $6.6 million for Corporate & Other. Costs incurred to date since the inception of the current initiatives are $35.7 million for Global Consumer, $1.7 million for Scotts LawnService®, and $9.2 million for Corporate & Other.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company's Global Consumer segment began experiencing an increase in certain consumer complaints related to the newly reformulated Bonus S® lawn fertilizer product used in the restructuring reserves assoutheastern United States indicating customers were experiencing damage to their lawns after application. During fiscal 2015, the Company recognized $62.4 million in costs related to resolving consumer complaints and the recognition of September 30, 2014, is $2.8 million that is classified as long-term. Payments againstcosts the long-term reserves willCompany expects to be incurred for current and expected consumer claims. The Company is working through the claims process with its insurers, and received reimbursement payments of $4.9 million during fiscal 2015, which was recorded as an offsetting insurance reimbursement recovery. Upon the employees coveredreceipt of additional reimbursement of these costs by its insurance carriers, the restructuring plan retire. The remaining amounts reservedCompany will berecord an offsetting insurance reimbursement recovery. During fiscal 2015, the Company paid out over the course of the next twelve months.$42.7 million to its third party administrator to pay for lawn repairs.

Fiscal 2014
During the third quarter of fiscal 2014,, as a result of financial performance, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $33.7$33.7 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business.
During fiscal 2014,, the Company recognized $12.5$12.5 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to U.S. personnel as part of the Company's restructuring of its U.S. administrative and overhead functions. The Company also recognized $2.8$2.8 million of international restructuring and other adjustments during fiscal 2014 for the continuation of the 2013profitability improvement initiative announced in December 2012, associated with the international restructuring plan.plan to reduce headcount and streamline management decision making within the Global Consumer segment. In addition, during fiscal 2014,, the Company recognized $2.0$2.0 million in additional ongoing monitoring and remediation costs for the Company's turfgrass biotechnology program.

Fiscal 2013
During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized income of $4.7$4.7 million related to the reimbursement by a vendor for a portion of the costs incurred for the development and commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment. During the first quarter of 2013, the Company also recognized a $4.3$4.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer segment. Also, as a result of the Company's annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6$11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business.
During fiscal 2013,, the Company recognized $9.1$9.1 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to international employees in relation to the profitability improvement initiative announced in December 2012, associated with the international restructuring plan to reduce headcount and streamline management decision making within the Global Consumer segment.

Fiscal 2012
During fiscal 2012, in continuation of the 2011 restructuring plan, the Company incurred an additional $1.6 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to employees who accepted voluntary retirement and special termination benefits provided to certain employees upon future separation as well as $0.2 million related to curtailment charges for its U.S. defined benefit pension and U.S. retiree medical plans.
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, the Company recognized a $5.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with respect to the commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment.


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 4.  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET
The following table displays a rollforward of the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment, as well as Corporate & Other:segment: 
Global
Consumer
 
Scotts
LawnService®
 
Corporate &
Other
 Total
Global
Consumer
 
Scotts
LawnService®
 Total
(In millions)(In millions)
Goodwill$244.9
 $127.3
 $24.6
 $396.8
$245.9
 $132.0
 $377.9
Accumulated impairment losses(62.8) 
 (24.6) (87.4)(62.8) 
 (62.8)
Balance at September 30, 2012182.1
 127.3
 
 309.4
Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments1.0
 4.7
 
 5.7
       
Goodwill$245.9
 $132.0
 $
 $377.9
Accumulated impairment losses(62.8) 
 
 (62.8)
Balance at September 30, 2013183.1
 132.0
 
 315.1
183.1
 132.0
 315.1
Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments35.8
 
 
 35.8
Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments and foreign currency translation35.8
 
 35.8
            
Goodwill$281.7
 $132.0
 $
 $413.7
$281.7
 $132.0
 $413.7
Accumulated impairment losses(62.8) 
 
 (62.8)(62.8) 
 (62.8)
Balance at September 30, 2014$218.9
 $132.0
 $
 $350.9
218.9
 132.0
 350.9
Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments and foreign currency translation64.8
 16.7
 81.5
     
Goodwill$346.5
 $148.7
 $495.2
Accumulated impairment losses(62.8) 
 (62.8)
Balance at September 30, 2015$283.7
 $148.7
 $432.4

The following table presents intangible assets, net: 
September 30, 2014 September 30, 2013September 30, 2015 September 30, 2014
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
Carrying
Amount
(In millions)(In millions)
Finite-lived intangible assets:                      
Technology$70.3
 $(56.0) $14.3
 $61.8
 $(53.8) $8.0
$69.7
 $(56.9) $12.8
 $70.3
 $(56.0) $14.3
Customer accounts74.2
 (47.2) 27.0
 81.2
 (65.0) 16.2
122.6
 (51.5) 71.1
 74.2
 (47.2) 27.0
Tradenames69.0
 (12.7) 56.3
 47.0
 (24.8) 22.2
94.9
 (17.2) 77.7
 69.0
 (12.7) 56.3
Other99.2
 (81.4) 17.8
 103.9
 (88.2) 15.7
97.3
 (80.2) 17.1
 99.2
 (81.4) 17.8
Total finite-lived intangible assets, net    115.4
     62.1
    178.7
     115.4
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:           
Indefinite-lived tradenames    187.3
     222.3
    184.8
     187.3
Marketing Agreement Amendment    188.3
     
Brand Extension Agreement    111.7
     
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets    484.8
     187.3
Total intangible assets, net    $302.7
 
   $284.4
    $663.5
 
   $302.7

Fiscal 2015
As a result of the annual impairment review, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company determined that no charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets were required. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit with a significant goodwill balance was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® brand.


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Fiscal 2014
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company completed an impairment review and recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $33.7 million, within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business.Thebusiness. The impact of the fair value adjustment was to reduce the carrying value of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands from $126.0 million to $92.3 million. The impairment charge is discussed further in “NOTE 3. IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES.” As a result of the annual impairment review, the Company also determined that no other charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets were required. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit with a significant goodwill balance was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® brand.

Fiscal 2013
During the first quarter of 2013, the Company recognized a $4.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer segment. During the fourth quarter of fiscal

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


2013, the Company completed its annual impairment review and recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6$11.6 million,, which included $11.1 million for indefinite-lived tradenames and $0.5 million for finite-lived tradenames, within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®. The impact of the fair value adjustment was to reduce the carrying value of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands from $137.1 million to $126.0 million. The impairment charge is discussed further in “NOTE 3. IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES.” As a result of the annual impairment review, the Company also determined that no other charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets were required. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit with a significant goodwill balance was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® brand.

Fiscal 2012
The Company recognized a $3.2 million impairment charge related to an intangible asset associated with the active ingredient MAT 28. The impairment charge is discussed further in “NOTE 3. IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES.”
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed its annual impairment analysis and determined that no additional charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets were required. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date. Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® tradename and French tradenames of KB® and Fertiligene®. The carrying value of the Ortho® tradename and French tradenames (KB® and Fertiligene®) at September 30, 2012 were $137.1 million and $17.7 million, respectively. The excess fair value over the carrying value of Ortho® tradename and French tradenames was 7.4% and 14.1%, respectively.
Total amortization expense for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $17.6 million, $13.8 million and 2012 was $13.8$11.2 million,, $11.2 million and $10.9 million, respectively. Amortization expense is estimated to be as follows for the years ending September 30 (in millions):
2015$12.5
201610.8
$18.5
20179.7
16.2
20188.4
14.9
20197.0
13.2
202012.2

NOTE 5.  DETAIL OF CERTAIN FINANCIAL STATEMENT ACCOUNTS

The following is detail of certain financial statement accounts:
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
INVENTORIES:      
Finished goods$217.5
 $182.6
$230.2
 $217.5
Work-in-progress46.2
 42.7
48.3
 46.2
Raw materials121.4
 99.6
129.1
 121.4
$385.1
 $324.9
$407.6
 $385.1
PREPAID AND OTHER ASSETS:   
PREPAID AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS:   
Deferred tax asset$72.2
 $67.1
$78.2
 $72.2
Accounts receivable, non-trade12.7
 12.9
11.2
 12.7
Other38.0
 33.0
36.0
 38.0
$122.9
 $113.0
$125.4
 $122.9

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)



September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET:      
Land and improvements$87.1
 $79.6
$96.5
 $87.1
Buildings218.8
 216.3
221.7
 218.8
Machinery and equipment536.2
 508.7
558.1
 536.2
Furniture and fixtures40.5
 39.7
41.9
 40.5
Software123.8
 116.7
113.0
 123.8
Aircraft6.7
 15.1
6.7
 6.7
Construction in progress21.1
 19.6
28.7
 21.1
1,034.2
 995.7
1,066.6
 1,034.2
Less: accumulated depreciation(597.2) (573.4)(612.9) (597.2)
$437.0
 $422.3
$453.7
 $437.0
 
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES:      
Payroll and other compensation accruals$79.0
 $66.6
$66.1
 $79.0
Advertising and promotional accruals64.1
 103.0
66.9
 64.1
Other116.4
 110.1
147.4
 116.4
$259.5
 $279.7
$280.4
 $259.5
OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES:      
Accrued pension and postretirement liabilities$93.8
 $96.5
$92.5
 $93.8
Deferred tax liabilities120.4
 96.2
125.4
 120.4
Other39.8
 46.1
34.6
 39.8
$254.0
 $238.8
$252.5
 $254.0
 
September 30,September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS:          
Unrecognized loss on derivatives, net of tax of $4.3, $7.1 and $10.6$(6.9) $(11.5) $(16.6)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities, net of tax of $38.6, $31.4 and $36.1(62.4) (58.0) (67.6)
Unrecognized loss on derivatives, net of tax of $5.6, $4.3 and $7.1$(9.0) $(6.9) $(11.5)
Pension and other postretirement liabilities, net of tax of $39.3, $38.6 and $31.4(63.7) (62.4) (58.0)
Foreign currency translation adjustment(16.9) (8.3) (3.1)(34.1) (16.9) (8.3)
$(86.2) $(77.8) $(87.3)$(106.8) $(86.2) $(77.8)


NOTE 6.  MARKETING AGREEMENT
The Scotts Company isLLC and Monsanto are parties to an Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement”), pursuant to which the Company has served since its 1998 fiscal year as Monsanto’s exclusive agent for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® herbicide products (with additional rights to new products containing glyphosate or other similar non-selective herbicides) in the consumer lawn and garden market within the United States and other specified countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.market. Under the terms of the Marketing Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive an annual commission from Monsanto as consideration for the performance of the Company’s duties as agent. The annual gross commission under the Marketing Agreement is calculated as a percentage of the actual earnings before interest and income taxes of the consumer Roundup® business in the markets covered by the Marketing Agreement and is based on the achievement of two earnings thresholds, as defined in the Marketing Agreement. The Marketing Agreement also requires the Company to make

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Agreement subject to the achievement of annual earnings thresholds. The Marketing Agreement also requires the Company to make annual payments of $20 million to Monsanto as a contribution against the overall expenses of the consumer Roundup® business. The annual contribution payment is defined inFrom 1998 until May 15, 2015, the Marketing Agreement covered the United States and other specified countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. On May 15, 2015, the territories were expanded to cover additional countries as $20 million.outlined below.
In consideration for the rights granted to the Company under the Marketing Agreement for North America,in 1998, the Company was required to paypaid a marketing fee of $32$32 million to Monsanto. The Company has deferred this amount on the basis that the payment will provide a future benefit through commissions that will be earned under the Marketing Agreement. The economic useful life over which the marketing fee is being amortized is 20 years, with a remaining unamortized amount of $2.6 million and remaining amortization period of less than four3 years as of September 30, 20142015.
On May 15, 2015, the Company and Monsanto entered into an Amendment to the Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement Amendment”), a Lawn and Garden Brand Extension Agreement (the “Brand Extension Agreement”) and a Commercialization and Technology Agreement (the “Commercialization and Technology Agreement”). In consideration for these agreements, the Company paid $300.0 million to Monsanto on August 14, 2015 using borrowings under its credit facility.
Among other things, the Marketing Agreement Amendment amends the Marketing Agreement in the following significant respects:
Expands the territories in which the Company may serve as Monsanto’s exclusive agent in the consumer lawn and garden market to include all countries other than Japan and countries subject to a comprehensive U.S. trade embargo or certain other embargoes and trade restrictions.
Eliminates the initial and renewal terms that the original Marketing Agreement applied to European Union (“EU”) countries. As amended, the term of the Marketing Agreement will now continue indefinitely for all included markets, including EU countries within the included markets, unless and until otherwise terminated in accordance with the Marketing Agreement.
Revises the procedures of the Marketing Agreement relating to a potential sale of the consumer Roundup® business to (1) require Monsanto to negotiate exclusively with the Company with respect to any potential Roundup® sale for 60 days after the Company receives notice from Monsanto regarding a potential Roundup® sale and (2) provide the Company with a right of first offer and a right of last look in connection with a potential Roundup® sale to a third party. In addition, if the Company makes a bid in connection with a Roundup® sale, the then-applicable termination fee would serve as a credit against the purchase price and the Monsanto board of directors would not be permitted to discount the value of the Company’s bid compared to a competing bid as a result of the termination fee discount.
Requires the Company to (1) provide notice to Monsanto of certain proposals and processes that may result in a sale of the Company and (2) conduct non-exclusive negotiations with Monsanto with respect to such a sale.
Increases the minimum termination fee payable under the Marketing Agreement to the greater of (1) $200 million or (2) four times (A) the average of the program earnings before interest or income taxes for the three trailing program years prior to the year of termination, minus (B) the 2015 program earnings before interest or income taxes.
Amends Monsanto’s termination rights and provides additional rights to the Company in the event of a termination, as follows:
delays the effectiveness of a notice of termination given by Monsanto as a result of a change of control with respect to Monsanto or a sale of the consumer Roundup® business to a third party from (1) the end of the later of 12 months or the next program year to (2) the end of the fifth full program year after Monsanto gives such notice;
eliminates Monsanto’s termination rights for a regional performance default, a change of significant ownership of the Company or an uncured or incurable egregious injury (as each are defined in the Marketing Agreement); and
eliminates Monsanto’s termination rights in connection with a change in control of the Company or Scotts Miracle-Gro as long as the Company has determined, in its reasonable commercial opinion, that the acquirer can and will fully perform the duties and obligations of the Company under the Marketing Agreement.

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Expands the Company’s termination rights to include termination for a brand decline event (as defined in the Marketing Agreement Amendment) occurring before program year 2023.
Expands the Company’s assignment rights to allow the Company to transfer its rights, interests and obligations under the Marketing Agreement with respect to (1) the North America territories and (2) one or more other included markets for up to three other assignments.
Amends the commission structure by (1) eliminating the commission threshold for program years 2016, 2017 and 2018 (2) setting the commission threshold for the subsequent program years at $40 million and (3) establishing the commission payable by Monsanto to the Company for each program year at an amount equal to 50% of the program earnings before interest and income taxes for such program year.
The Brand Extension Agreement provides the Company a worldwide, exclusive license to use the Roundup® brand on additional products offered by the Company outside of the non-selective weed category within the residential lawn and garden market. The application of the Roundup® brand to these additional products is subject to a product review and approval process developed between the Company and Monsanto. Monsanto will maintain oversight of its brand, the handling of brand registrations covering these new products and new territories, as well as primary responsibility for brand enforcement. The Brand Extension Agreement has an initial term of 20 years, which will automatically renew for additional successive 20 year terms, at the Company’s sole option, for no additional monetary consideration.
The Commercialization and Technology Agreement provides for the Company and Monsanto to further develop and commercialize new products and technology developed at Monsanto and intended for introduction into the residential lawn and garden market. Under the Commercialization and Technology Agreement, the Company receives an exclusive first look at new Monsanto technology and products and an annual review of Monsanto's developing products and technologies. The Commercialization and Technology Agreement has a term of 30 years (subject to early termination upon a termination event under the Marketing Agreement or the Brand Extension Agreement).
The Company recorded the $300 million consideration paid by the Company to Monsanto in connection with the entry into the Marketing Agreement Amendment, the Brand Extension Agreement and the Commercialization and Technology Agreement as intangible assets and the related economic useful life of such assets is indefinite. The identifiable intangible assets include the Marketing Agreement Amendment and the Brand Extension Agreement with allocated fair value of $188.3 million and $111.7 million, respectively. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate rate of return.
Under the terms of the Marketing Agreement, the Company performs certain functions, primarily manufacturing conversion services (in North America), distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support, on behalf of Monsanto in the conduct of the consumer Roundup® business. The actual costs incurred for these activities are charged to and reimbursed by Monsanto. The Company records costs incurred under the Marketing Agreement for which the Company is the primary obligor on a gross basis, recognizing such costs in “Cost of sales” and the reimbursement of these costs in “Net sales,” with no effect on gross profit dollars or net income.
The gross commission earned under the Marketing Agreement, the contribution payments to Monsanto and the amortization of the initial marketing fee paid to Monsanto in 1998 are included in the calculation of net sales in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The elements of the net commission and reimbursements earned under the Marketing Agreement and included in “Net sales” wereare as follows:
Year Ended September 30Year Ended September 30
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Gross commission$85.2
 $81.8
 $81.3
$88.7
 $85.2
 $81.8
Contribution expenses(20.0) (20.0) (20.0)(20.0) (20.0) (20.0)
Amortization of marketing fee(0.8) (0.8) (0.8)(0.8) (0.8) (0.8)
Net commission income64.4
 61.0
 60.5
67.9
 64.4
 61.0
Reimbursements associated with Marketing Agreement63.0
 62.0
 79.6
63.3
 63.0
 62.0
Total net sales associated with Marketing Agreement$127.4
 $123.0
 $140.1
$131.2
 $127.4
 $123.0

The Marketing Agreement has no definite term except as it relates to the European Union countries (the “EU term”). The EU term extends through September 30, 2015. Thereafter, the Marketing Agreement provides that the parties may agree to renew the EU term for an additional three years.
The Marketing Agreement provides Monsanto with the right to terminate the Marketing Agreement upon an event of default (as defined in the Marketing Agreement) by the Company, a change in control of Monsanto or the sale of the consumer Roundup® business. The Marketing Agreement provides the Company with the right to terminate the Marketing Agreement in certain circumstances, including an event of default by Monsanto or the sale of the consumer Roundup® business. Unless Monsanto terminates the Marketing Agreement due to an event of default by the Company, Monsanto is required to pay a termination fee to the Company that varies by program year. The termination fee is calculated as a percentage of the value of the Roundup® business exceeding a certain threshold, but in no event will the termination fee be less than $16 million absent termination for cause. If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for cause, the Company would not be entitled to any termination fee. Monsanto may also be able to terminate the Marketing Agreement within a given region, including North America, without paying a termination fee if unit volume sales to consumers in that region decline: (1) over a cumulative three-fiscal-year period; or (2) by more than 5% for each of two consecutive years. If the Marketing Agreement was terminated for any reason, the Company would also lose all, or a substantial portion, of the significant source of earnings and overhead expense absorption the Marketing Agreement provides.
Under the Marketing Agreement, Monsanto must provide the Company with notice of any proposed sale of the consumer Roundup® business, allow the Company to participate in the sale process and negotiate in good faith with the Company with respect to any such proposed sale. In the event the Company acquires the consumer Roundup® business in such a sale, the Company would receive as a credit against the purchase price the amount of the termination fee that would have been paid to the Company if Monsanto had exercised its right to terminate the Marketing Agreement in connection with a sale to another party. If Monsanto decides to sell the consumer Roundup® business to another party, the Company must let Monsanto know whether the Company intends to terminate the Marketing Agreement and forfeit any right to a termination fee. For additional details regarding the Marketing Agreement, see “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS - If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for consumer

6971

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Roundup® products, we would lose a substantial source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

NOTE 7.  ACQUISITIONS

Fiscal 20142015
During the first quarter of fiscalOn October 16, 2014,, in an effort to expand the rodenticide product offerings, the Company completed the $60.0 million all-cash acquisition of the assets of the Tomcat Scotts LawnService® consumer rodentacquired the assets of Action Pest Control Inc. (“Action Pest”), a residential and commercial pest control business from Bell Laboratories, Inc. locatedprovider in Madison, Wisconsin. Tomcatthe Midwest, for $21.7 million. Action Pest provides residential and commercial pest control services to homeowners and businesses throughout Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. This transaction provides Scotts LawnService® consumer products are sold at home centers, mass retailers, and grocery, drug and general merchandise stores acrossan entry into the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Duringpest control market. Included in the second quarterpurchase price of fiscal 2014,$21.7 million is non-cash investing activity of $4.0 million representing the valuationdeferral of a portion of the acquired assets was updated based on actual results, which resulted in the reallocation of approximately $1.7 million to finite-lived intangibles from goodwill.purchase price into subsequent fiscal periods. The revised valuation of the acquired assets included finite-lived identifiable intangible assets of $39.8$6.1 million and tax deductible goodwill of $18.2$14.1 million. Also, the Company received a $2.0 million credit toward the purchase of finished goods in the months subsequent to acquisition date. Identifiable intangible assets included tradename, technology, customer relationships product registrations and non-compete agreements with useful lives ranging between 101 to 3012 years. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate rate of return.discount rate. Net sales for Action Pest included in the TomcatScotts LawnService® rodent controlsegment for fiscal 2015 were $12.0 million. During fiscal 2015, Scotts LawnService® also acquired several other businesses that individually and in the aggregate were not significant for an aggregate purchase price of $3.5 million, which included $2.6 million in tax deductible goodwill.
During fiscal 2015, the Company completed four acquisitions of growing media operations within the Global Consumer segment for an aggregate purchase price of $40.2 million. These acquisitions expand the Company's growing media operations and distribution capabilities within its Global Consumer segment. The valuation of acquired assets for the transactions included (i) $10.1 million in finite-lived identifiable intangible assets, (ii) $11.4 million in fixed assets, (iii) $9.8 million in tax deductible goodwill, and (iv) $9.7 million of inventory and accounts receivable. Identifiable intangible assets include tradenames and customer relationships with useful lives ranging between 7 to 20 years. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate discount rate. Net sales for these acquired businesses included in the Global Consumer segment for fiscal 2015 were $21.2 million.
On March 30, 2015, the Company acquired the assets of General Hydroponics, Inc. (“General Hydroponics”) and Bio-Organic Solutions, Inc. (“Vermicrop”) for $120.0 million and $15.0 million, respectively. This transaction provides the Company's Global Consumer segment with an additional entry in the indoor and urban gardening market, which is a part of the Global Consumer segment's long-term growth strategy. General Hydroponics and Vermicrop are leading producers of liquid plant food products, growing media, and accessories for the hydroponics markets. The General Hydroponics purchase price includes non-cash investing activity of $1.0 million representing the deferral of a portion of the purchase price into fiscal 2016. Included in the Vermicrop purchase price is $5.0 million of contingent consideration, the payment of which will depend on the performance of the business through calendar year 2015. Additionally, the Vermicrop purchase price was paid in common shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro (“Common Shares”) based on the average share price at the time of payment. The valuation of acquired assets was determined during the third quarter of fiscal 2015 and included (i) $14.2 million of inventory and accounts receivable, (ii) $5.7 million in fixed assets, (iii) $65.0 million of finite-lived identifiable intangible assets, and (iv) $53.7 million of tax-deductible goodwill. Identifiable intangible assets included tradenames, customer relationships and non-compete arrangements with useful lives ranging between 5 to 26 years. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate discount rate. Net sales for General Hydroponics and Vermicrop included within the Global Consumer segment for fiscal 20142015 were $33.6$30.9 million.
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of operations for these business combinations from the date of each acquisition.
Fiscal 2014
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014,, the Company obtained control of the operations of AeroGrow International, Inc (“AeroGrow”) through its increased involvement, influence, and working capital loan of $4.5 million provided in July of 2014. AeroGrow is a developer, marketer, direct-seller, and wholesaler of advanced indoor garden systems designed for consumer use in gardening, cooking, healthy eating, and home and office décor markets. AeroGrow operates primarily in the United States and Canada, as well as Australia and select countries in Europe Asia and Australia.Asia. The preliminary valuation of acquired assets included finite-lived identifiable intangible assets of $13.7 million, and goodwill of $11.6 million. Identifiable intangible assets included tradename and customer relationships with useful lives ranging between 9 to 20 years. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate rate of return.discount rate. Net sales for AeroGrow included in the Global Consumer segment for fiscal 2015 and 2014 were $17.1 million and $1.7 million.million, respectively.

72

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The Company completed an acquisition of the assets of the U.K. based Solus Garden and Leisure Limited (“Solus”) in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 within its Global Consumer segment for $7.4 million, $1.1 million of which was paid in cash and $6.3 million of which was paid through the forgiveness of outstanding accounts receivable owed by Solus to the Company. Solus is a supplier of garden and leisure products and offers a diverse mix of brands. Net sales for Solus included in the Global Consumer segment for fiscal 2015 and 2014 were $21.2 million and $3.3 million, respectively.
On September 30, 2014, Scotts Miracle-Gro's wholly-owned subsidiary, Scotts Canada Ltd., acquired Fafard & Brothers Ltd. (“Fafard”) for $59.8 million. In continuous operation since 1940 and based in Saint-Bonaventure, Quebec, Canada, Fafard is a Canadian based producer of peat moss and growing media products for the consumer and professional markets, including peat-based and bark-based mixes, composts and premium soils. The acquisition of Fafard increases the Company's presence within Canada as Fafard serves customers primarily across Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick. The preliminary valuation of acquired assets included working capital of $18.0$17.6 million, property, plant, and equipment of $23.7$23.4 million, finite-lived identifiable intangible assets of $13.6$12.6 million, and tax deductible goodwill of $6.0$7.9 million. Working capital included accounts receivable of $5.2$4.7 million, inventory of $17.3$17.7 million, and accounts payable of $4.5$4.8 million. Identifiable intangible assets included tradename, customer relationships, non-compete agreements, and peat harvesting rights with useful lives ranging between 51 to 2520 years. The estimated fair values of the identifiable intangible assets were determined using an income-based approach, which includes market participant expectations of cash flows that an asset will generate over the remaining useful life discounted to present value using an appropriate rate of return.discount rate. Included in the purchase price of Fafard is $7.1 million of contingent consideration, the payment of which will depend on the performance of the business overthrough fiscal 2016. Net sales for Fafard included in the next two years.Global Consumer segment for fiscal 2015 were $37.8 million.
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of operations fromfor these businessesbusiness combinations from the date of each acquisition.
On October 16, 2014, Scotts LawnService® entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of Action Pest Control, Inc. (“Action Pest”), a residential and commercial pest control provider in the Midwest for $22.7 million. The initial purchase price accounting for the Action Pest acquisition will be determined during the first quarter of fiscal 2015.


70


Fiscal 2013 and 2012
During fiscal 2013, and 2012, the Company completed several acquisitions within its controls, growing media and Scotts LawnService® businesses that individually and in the aggregate were not significant. The aggregate purchase price of these acquisitions was $7.2 million and $6.7 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.$7.2 million. The Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of operations fromfor these business combinations from the date of each acquisition.


73

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 8.  RETIREMENT PLANS
The Company sponsors a defined contribution 401(k) plan for substantially all U.S. associates. The Company matches 150% of associates’ initial 4% contribution and 50% of their remaining contribution up to 6%. The Company may make additional discretionary profit sharing matching contributions to eligible employees on their initial 4% contribution. The Company recorded charges of $14.1 million, $13.8 million $13.1and $13.1 million and $12.9 million under the plan in fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively.
The Company sponsors two defined benefit pension plans for certain U.S. associates. Benefits under these plans have been frozen and closed to new associates since 1997. The benefits under the primary plan are based on years of service and the associates’ average final compensation or stated amounts. The Company’s funding policy, consistent with statutory requirements and tax considerations, is based on actuarial computations using the Projected Unit Credit method. The second frozen plan is a non-qualified supplemental pension plan. This plan provides for incremental pension payments so that total pension payments equal amounts that would have been payable from the Company’s pension plan if it were not for limitations imposed by the income tax regulations. In connection with the restructuring plans discussed in “NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES,” the Company recognized a plan curtailment gain of $0.5 million in fiscal 2013 for a change in the benefit obligations associated with these plans.
The Company sponsors defined benefit pension plans associated with its international businesses in the United Kingdom, Germany, France and the Netherlands. These plans generally cover all associates of the respective businesses, with retirement benefits primarily based on years of service and compensation levels. In fiscal 2013, the Company's remaining obligations were settled for the defined benefit pension plan associated with its Netherlands business. On July 1, 2010, the Company froze its two U.K. defined benefit pension plans and transferred participants to an amended defined contribution plan. Under the frozen defined benefit plans, participants are no longer credited for future service; however, future salary increases will continue to be factored into each participant’s final pension benefit.
In October 2014, the Society of Actuaries released an updated report on mortality tables and a mortality improvement scale to reflect increasing life expectancies in the United States. As of September 30, 2015, the Company revised assumed mortality rates to reflect the updated information, resulting in an increase in the projected benefit obligation.




7174

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following tables present information about benefit obligations, plan assets, annual expense, assumptions and other information about the Company’s defined benefit pension plans. The defined benefit pension plans are valued using a September 30 measurement date.
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
2014 2013 2014 20132015 2014 2015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Change in projected benefit obligation       
Change in projected benefit obligation:       
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$106.7
 $118.8
 $190.7
 $188.0
$109.2
 $106.7
 $208.3
 $190.7
Service cost
 
 1.2
 1.2

 
 1.2
 1.2
Interest cost4.5
 3.9
 8.3
 7.8
4.0
 4.5
 7.3
 8.3
Actuarial loss (gain)5.1
 (8.8) 17.7
 4.5
Actuarial loss11.4
 5.1
 4.5
 17.7
Benefits paid(7.1) (7.2) (6.5) (6.1)(7.3) (7.1) (6.4) (6.5)
Curtailment
 
 
 (0.8)
Settlement
 
 
 (4.6)
Other
 
 (0.6) (1.3)
 
 (1.1) (0.6)
Foreign currency translation
 
 (2.5) 2.0

 
 (15.7) (2.5)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year$109.2
 $106.7
 $208.3
 $190.7
$117.3
 $109.2
 $198.1
 $208.3
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year$109.2
 $106.7
 $200.8
 $184.8
$117.3
 $109.2
 $192.0
 $200.8
Change in plan assets       
Change in plan assets:       
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year$84.3
 $85.3
 $148.8
 $139.8
$89.8
 $84.3
 $166.3
 $148.8
Actual return on plan assets9.2
 3.4
 16.4
 12.1
(1.4) 9.2
 13.9
 16.4
Employer contribution3.4
 2.8
 8.9
 8.2
2.4
 3.4
 7.4
 8.9
Benefits paid(7.1) (7.2) (6.5) (6.1)(7.3) (7.1) (6.4) (6.5)
Settlement
 
 
 (4.6)
Foreign currency translation
 
 (0.4) 0.7

 
 (11.5) (0.4)
Other
 
 (0.9) (1.3)
 
 (1.1) (0.9)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year$89.8
 $84.3
 $166.3
 $148.8
$83.5
 $89.8
 $168.6
 $166.3
Underfunded status at end of year$(19.4) $(22.4) $(42.0) $(41.9)$(33.8) $(19.4) $(29.5) $(42.0)
Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets       
Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:       
Projected benefit obligation$109.2
 $106.7
 $208.3
 $190.7
$117.3
 $109.2
 $198.1
 $208.3
Accumulated benefit obligation109.2
 106.7
 200.8
 184.8
117.3
 109.2
 192.0
 200.8
Fair value of plan assets89.8
 84.3
 166.3
 148.8
83.5
 89.8
 168.6
 166.3
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:              
Noncurrent assets$
 $
 $2.4
 $
Current liabilities$(0.2) $(0.2) $(1.1) $(1.0)(0.2) (0.2) (0.9) (1.1)
Noncurrent liabilities(19.2) (22.2) (40.9) (40.9)(33.6) (19.2) (31.0) (40.9)
Total amount accrued$(19.4) $(22.4) $(42.0) $(41.9)$(33.8) $(19.4) $(29.5) $(42.0)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss consist of:              
Actuarial loss$34.3
 $36.9
 $64.7
 $56.1
$49.2
 $34.3
 $57.8
 $64.7
Prior service cost
 
 0.4
 0.4

 
 0.3
 0.4
Total amount recognized$34.3
 $36.9
 $65.1
 $56.5
$49.2
 $34.3
 $58.1
 $65.1


7275

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
2014 2013 2014 20132015 2014 2015 2014
(In millions, except percentage figures)(In millions, except percentage figures)
Total change in other comprehensive loss attributable to:              
Pension benefit (loss) gain during the period$(1.1) $7.1
 $(10.7) $(0.3)$(18.2) $(1.1) $0.5
 $(10.7)
Reclassification of pension benefit losses to net income3.7
 4.8
 1.4
 1.2
3.3
 3.7
 1.7
 1.4
Curtailment gain during the period
 
 
 (1.0)
Foreign currency translation
 
 0.7
 (0.4)
 
 4.8
 0.7
Total change in other comprehensive loss$2.6
 $11.9
 $(8.6) $(0.5)$(14.9) $2.6
 $7.0
 $(8.6)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in fiscal 2015 are as follows:       
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in fiscal 2016 are as follows:       
Actuarial loss$3.3
   $1.8
  $1.8
   $1.7
  
Prior service cost
   
  
   
  
Amount to be amortized into net periodic benefit cost$3.3
   $1.8
  $1.8
   $1.7
  
Weighted average assumptions used in development of projected benefit obligation       
Weighted average assumptions used in development of projected benefit obligation:       
Discount rate3.81% 4.32% 3.73% 4.32%3.82% 3.81% 3.52% 3.73%
Rate of compensation increasen/a
 n/a
 3.65% 3.74%n/a
 n/a
 3.49% 3.65%
 
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined Benefit Pension Plans
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined Benefit Pension Plans
2014 2013 2012 2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013
(In millions, except percentage figures)(In millions, except percentage figures)
Components of net periodic benefit cost           
Components of net periodic benefit cost:           
Service cost$
 $
 $
 $1.2
 $1.2
 $1.1
$
 $
 $
 $1.2
 $1.2
 $1.2
Interest cost4.5
 3.8
 4.6
 8.3
 7.8
 8.6
4.0
 4.5
 3.8
 7.3
 8.3
 7.8
Expected return on plan assets(5.2) (5.2) (5.5) (9.4) (8.7) (8.4)(5.4) (5.2) (5.2) (8.9) (9.4) (8.7)
Net amortization3.7
 4.8
 5.1
 1.4
 1.2
 0.8
3.3
 3.7
 4.8
 1.7
 1.4
 1.2
Net periodic benefit cost3.0
 3.4
 4.2
 1.5
 1.5
 2.1
1.9
 3.0
 3.4
 1.3
 1.5
 1.5
Curtailment loss (gain)
 
 0.2
 
 (0.5) 

 
 
 
 
 (0.5)
Settlement
 
 
 
 (0.5) 

 
 
 
 
 (0.5)
Contractual termination benefits
 
 
 0.3
 
 0.3

 
 
 
 0.3
 
Total benefit cost$3.0
 $3.4
 $4.4
 $1.8
 $0.5
 $2.4
$1.9
 $3.0
 $3.4
 $1.3
 $1.8
 $0.5
Weighted average assumptions used in development of net periodic benefit cost           
Weighted average assumptions used in development of net periodic benefit cost:           
Discount rate4.32% 3.39% 4.29% 4.32% 4.45% 5.46%3.81% 4.32% 3.39% 3.73% 4.32% 4.45%
Expected return on plan assets6.25% 6.25% 7.50% 6.17% 6.52% 7.00%6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 5.63% 6.17% 6.52%
Rate of compensation increasen/a
 n/a
 n/a
 3.7% 3.4% 3.5%n/a
 n/a
 n/a
 3.7% 3.7% 3.4%

7376

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


 
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
U.S. Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
 
International
Defined
Benefit Pension Plans
(In millions, except percentage figures)(In millions, except percentage figures)
Other information:      
Plan asset allocations:      
Target for September 30, 2015:   
Target for September 30, 2016:   
Equity securities25% 32%
Debt securities70% 66%
Real estate securities5% %
Cash and cash equivalents% %
Insurance contracts% 2%
September 30, 2015:   
Equity securities20% 46%23% 31%
Debt securities76% 49%70% 67%
Real estate securities4% %4% %
Cash and cash equivalents% 3%3% %
Insurance contracts% 2%% 2%
September 30, 2014:      
Equity securities25% 52%25% 52%
Debt securities69% 45%69% 45%
Real estate securities4% %4% %
Cash and cash equivalents2% 1%2% 1%
Insurance contracts% 2%% 2%
September 30, 2013:   
Equity securities33% 47%
Debt securities66% 44%
Cash and cash equivalents1% %
Insurance contracts% 9%
Expected Company contributions in fiscal 2015$0.2
 $7.3
Expected Company contributions in fiscal 2016$3.2
 $5.5
Expected future benefit payments:      
2015$7.2
 $6.4
20167.3
 6.6
$7.6
 $6.1
20177.3
 6.9
7.7
 6.4
20187.3
 7.3
7.7
 6.7
20197.3
 7.6
7.7
 7.0
2020 – 202536.0
 44.5
20207.7
 7.3
2021 – 202637.8
 43.7


7477

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following tables set forth the fair value of the Company’s pension plan assets, segregated by level within the fair value hierarchy:
September 30, 2014September 30, 2015
Quoted Prices in  Active
Markets for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
Quoted Prices in  Active
Markets for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
(In millions)(In millions)
U.S. Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets              
Cash and cash equivalents$2.0
 $
 $
 $2.0
$2.6
 $
 $
 $2.6
Mutual funds—real estate
 3.7
 
 3.7

 3.5
 
 3.5
Mutual funds—equities
 22.2
 
 22.2

 19.0
 
 19.0
Mutual funds—fixed income
 61.9
 
 61.9

 58.4
 
 58.4
Total$2.0
 $87.8
 $
 $89.8
$2.6
 $80.9
 $
 $83.5
International Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets              
Cash and cash equivalents$1.7
 $
 $
 $1.7
$0.6
 $
 $
 $0.6
Insurance contracts
 3.0
 
 3.0

 2.6
 
 2.6
Mutual funds—equities
 87.4
 
 87.4

 52.3
 
 52.3
Mutual funds—fixed income
 74.2
 
 74.2

 113.1
 
 113.1
Total$1.7
 $164.6
 $
 $166.3
$0.6
 $168.0
 $
 $168.6


September 30, 2013September 30, 2014
Quoted Prices in  Active
Markets for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
Quoted Prices in  Active
Markets for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
 
Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
(In millions)(In millions)
U.S. Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets              
Cash and cash equivalents$1.5
 $
 $
 $1.5
$2.0
 $
 $
 $2.0
Mutual funds—real estate
 3.7
 
 3.7
Mutual funds—equities
 27.5
 
 27.5

 22.2
 
 22.2
Mutual funds—fixed income
 55.3
 
 55.3

 61.9
 
 61.9
Total$1.5
 $82.8
 $
 $84.3
$2.0
 $87.8
 $
 $89.8
International Defined Benefit Pension Plan Assets              
Cash and cash equivalents$1.6
 $
 $
 $1.6
$1.7
 $
 $
 $1.7
Insurance contracts
 3.3
 
 3.3

 3.0
 
 3.0
Mutual funds—equities
 73.9
 
 73.9

 87.4
 
 87.4
Mutual funds—fixed income
 70.0
 
 70.0

 74.2
 
 74.2
Total$1.6
 $147.2
 $
 $148.8
$1.7
 $164.6
 $���
 $166.3

The fair value of the mutual funds are valued at the exchange-listed year end closing price or at the net asset value of shares held by the fund at the end of the year. Insurance contracts are valued by discounting the related cash flows using a current year end market rate or at cash surrender value, which is presumed to equal fair value. Funds of hedge funds are valued at the net asset value of shares held by the fund at the end of the year.


7578

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Company’s level 3 pension plan assets:
 
Level 3 Assets
Insurance  contracts
 (In millions)
Balance, September 30, 2012$4.4
Realized gain on plan assets0.3
Unrealized gain on plan assets
Foreign currency translation
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (net)(4.7)
Balance, September 30, 2013
Realized gain on plan assets
Unrealized gain on plan assets
Foreign currency translation
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (net)
Balance, September 30, 2014$

Investment Strategy
Target allocation percentages among various asset classes are maintained based on an individual investment policy established for each of the various pension plans. Asset allocations are designed to achieve long-term objectives of return while mitigating against downside risk and considering expected cash requirements necessary to fund benefit payments. However, the Company cannot predict future investment returns and therefore cannot determine whether future pension plan funding requirements could materially and adversely affect its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Basis for Long-Term Rate of Return on Asset Assumptions
The Company’s expected long-term rate of return on asset assumptions are derived from studies conducted by third parties. The studies include a review of anticipated future long-term performance of individual asset classes and consideration of the appropriate asset allocation strategy given the anticipated requirements of the plans to determine the average rate of earnings expected. While the studies give appropriate consideration to recent fund performance and historical returns, the assumptions primarily represent expectations about future rates of return over the long term.

NOTE 9.  ASSOCIATE MEDICAL BENEFITS
The Company provides comprehensive major medical benefits to certain of its retired associates and their dependents. Substantially all of the Company’s domestic associates who were hired before January 1, 1998 become eligible for these benefits if they retire at age 55 or older with more than 10 years of service. The retiree medical plan requires certain minimum contributions from retired associates and includes provisions to limit the overall cost increases the Company is required to cover. The Company funds its portion of retiree medical benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis.

79

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following table sets forth information about the retiree medical plan for domestic associates. The retiree medical plan is valued using a September 30 measurement date.
 
 2015 2014
 (In millions, except percentage figures)
Change in Accumulated Plan Benefit Obligation (APBO):   
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$32.4
 $31.6
Service cost0.4
 0.4
Interest cost1.3
 1.4
Plan participants’ contributions1.2
 1.1
Actuarial loss2.0
 0.7
Benefits paid (net of federal subsidy of $0.3 and $0.3)(3.1) (2.9)
Plan changes(8.2) 0.1
Benefit obligation at end of year$26.0
 $32.4
Change in plan assets:   
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year$
 $
Employer contribution2.2
 2.1
Plan participants’ contributions1.2
 1.1
Gross benefits paid(3.4) (3.2)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year$
 $
Unfunded status at end of year$(26.0) $(32.4)
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:   
Current liabilities$(2.1) $(2.3)
Noncurrent liabilities(23.9) (30.1)
Total amount accrued$(26.0) $(32.4)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss consist of:   
Actuarial loss$3.4
 $1.3
Unamortized prior service cost (credit)(8.1) 0.1
Total amount recognized$(4.7) $1.4
Total change in other comprehensive loss attributable to:   
Benefit loss during the period$2.1
 $0.9
Net prior service cost (credit)(8.2) 0.1
Total change in other comprehensive loss (income)$(6.1) $1.0
    
Discount rate used in development of APBO4.03% 4.08%

 2015 2014 2013
Components of net periodic benefit cost     
Service cost$0.4
 $0.4
 $0.5
Interest cost1.3
 1.4
 1.3
Amortization of actuarial loss
 
 0.1
Total postretirement benefit cost$1.7
 $1.8
 $1.9
      
Discount rate used in development of net periodic benefit cost4.08% 4.54% 3.66%

7680

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


 2014 2013
 (In millions, except percentage figures)
Change in Accumulated Plan Benefit Obligation (APBO)   
Benefit obligation at beginning of year$31.6
 $36.3
Service cost0.4
 0.5
Interest cost1.4
 1.3
Plan participants’ contributions1.1
 1.1
Actuarial gain (loss)0.7
 (4.4)
Benefits paid (net of federal subsidy of $0.3 and $0.3)(2.9) (3.2)
Plan changes0.1
 
Benefit obligation at end of year$32.4
 $31.6
Change in plan assets   
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year$
 $
Employer contribution2.1
 2.4
Plan participants’ contributions1.1
 1.1
Gross benefits paid(3.2) (3.5)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
 
Unfunded status at end of year$(32.4) $(31.6)
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:   
Current liabilities$(2.3) $(2.4)
Noncurrent liabilities(30.1) (29.2)
Total amount accrued$(32.4) $(31.6)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss consist of:   
Actuarial loss$1.3
 $0.4
Unamortized prior service cost0.1
 
Total amount recognized$1.4
 $0.4
Total change in other comprehensive loss attributable to:   
Benefit loss (gain) during the period$0.9
 $(4.3)
Net prior service cost0.1
 
Net gain amortized during the year
 (0.2)
Total change in other comprehensive loss (gain)$1.0
 $(4.5)
    
Discount rate used in development of APBO4.08% 4.54%

 2014 2013 2012
Components of net periodic benefit cost     
Service cost$0.4
 $0.5
 $0.6
Interest cost1.4
 1.3
 1.6
Amortization of actuarial loss
 0.1
 
Total postretirement benefit cost$1.8
 $1.9
 $2.2
      
Discount rate used in development of net periodic benefit cost4.54% 3.66% 4.66%
The estimated actuarial gainloss that will be amortized from accumulated loss into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year is immaterial.$0.1 million. On January 1, 2016, a plan change will become effective whereby Medicare eligible participants will be covered under a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (“HRA”) and a catastrophic prescription drug plan provided by the Company that will be used by retirees to purchase individual insurance policies that supplement or replace Medicare through a private exchange. This plan change resulted in a decrease in the benefit obligation of $8.2 million.
On December 8, 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act (the “Act”) became law. The Act provides for a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a prescription drug benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to the benefit established by the Act. The APBO at September 30, 2014,2015, has been reduced by a deferred actuarial gain in the amount of $0.3 million to reflect the effect of the subsidy related to benefits attributed to past service.

77

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


subsidy. The amortization of the actuarial gain and reduction of service and interest costs and decrease in amortization of the actuarial loss served to reduce net periodic post retirement benefit cost for fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013 by $0.1 million, $0.3$0.1 million and $0.2$0.3 million, respectively.
For measurement as of September 30, 2014,2015, management has assumed that health care costs will increase at an annual rate of 7.50%7.25% in fiscal 2015,2016, and thereafter decreasing 0.25% per year to an ultimate trend rate of 5.00% in 2025.2024. A 1% increase in health cost trend rate assumptions would increase the APBO by $1.1$0.1 million as of September 30, 20142015. A 1% decrease in health cost trend rate assumptions and would decrease the APBO by $0.8$0.1 million as of September 30, 20142015. A 1% increase or decrease in the samehealth cost trend rate assumptions would not have a material effect on service or interest costs.
The following benefit payments under the plan are expected to be paid by the Company and the retirees for the fiscal years indicated:
Gross
Benefit
Payments
 
Retiree
Contributions
 
Medicare
Part D
Subsidy
 
Net
Company
Payments
Gross
Benefit
Payments
 
Retiree
Contributions
 
Net
Company
Payments
(In millions)(In millions)
2015$4.0
 $(1.3) $(0.3) $2.4
20164.2
 (1.5) (0.4) 2.3
$2.5
 $(0.4) $2.1
20174.4
 (1.8) (0.4) 2.2
2.5
 (0.5) 2.0
20184.7
 (2.0) (0.4) 2.3
2.5
 (0.5) 2.0
20195.1
 (2.4) (0.5) 2.2
2.6
 (0.6) 2.0
2020 – 202428.8
 (15.8) (2.8) 10.2
20202.6
 (0.6) 2.0
2021 – 202512.3
 (3.3) 9.0

The Company also provides comprehensive major medical benefits to its associates. The Company is self-insured for certain health benefits up to $0.6 million per occurrence per individual. The cost of such benefits is recognized as expense in the period the claim is incurred. This cost was $32.3 million, $33.8 million $35.1 million and $28.7$35.1 million in fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively.

NOTE 10.  DEBT
The components of long-term debt are as follows: 
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Credit Facilities - Revolving loans$481.8
 $73.0
Senior Notes – 7.25%
 200.0
Credit Facilities – Revolving loans$816.3
 $481.8
Senior Notes – 6.625%200.0
 200.0
200.0
 200.0
Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement84.0
 85.3
122.3
 84.0
Other18.5
 12.2
24.7
 18.5
784.3
 570.5
1,163.3
 784.3
Less current portions91.9
 92.4
134.8
 91.9
Long-term debt$692.4
 $478.1
$1,028.5
 $692.4


81

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The Company’s debt matures as follows for each of the next five fiscal years and thereafter (in millions):
 
2015$91.9
20161.5
$134.8
20177.7
10.5
20180.5
0.7
2019482.3
816.9
20200.4
Thereafter200.4
200.0
$784.3
$1,163.3
 


78

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Credit Facilities
On December 20, 2013, the Company entered into a third amended and restated senior secured credit agreement, (the “new credit facility”), providing Scotts Miracle-Grothe Company and certain of its subsidiaries with a five-yearfive-year senior secured revolving loan facility in the aggregate principal amount of up to $1.7 billion.billion (the “former credit facility”). The newformer credit facility, which was in effect throughout fiscal 2015 and as of September 30, 2015, also providesprovided the Company with the right to seek to increase the revolving and/or term commitments available under the new credit facility by an aggregate amount of up to $450$450.0 million, subject to certain specified conditions, including approval from lenders. Under the former credit facility, the Company had the ability to obtain letters of credit up to $75 million. At September 30, 2015, the Company had letters of credit outstanding in the aggregate face amount of $22.7 million, and $861.0 million of availability under the former credit facility, subject to the Company's continued compliance with covenants discussed below. The weighted average interest rates on average borrowings under the former credit facility were 4.0% and 4.8% for fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, respectively. In August 2015, the Company paid Monsanto $300 million using a combination of cash and borrowings under the former credit facility.
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2015, on October 29, 2015, the Company entered into a fourth amended and restated credit agreement (the “new credit agreement”), providing the Company and certain of its subsidiaries with five-year senior secured loan facilities in the aggregate principal amount of $1.9 billion, comprised of a revolving credit facility of $1.6 billion and a term loan in the amount of $300 million (the “new credit facilities”). The new credit facilityagreement also provides the Company with the right to seek additional committed credit under the agreement in an aggregate amount of up to $500 million plus an unlimited additional amount, subject to certain specified financial and other conditions. The new credit agreement replaces the Company’s second amendedformer credit facility, and restated senior securedwill terminate on October 29, 2020. Borrowings on the revolving credit agreement, which was entered into on June 30, 2011,facility may be made in various currencies, including U.S. dollars, euro, British pounds, Australian dollars, and would have terminated on June 30, 2016 if it had not been terminated early in connection with the entry into the new credit facility.
Canadian dollars. The terms of the new credit facility include customaryagreement includes representations and warranties, customary affirmative and negative covenants, financial covenants, and events of default. The proceeds of borrowings underon the new credit facilityfacilities may be used: (i) to finance working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes of the Scotts Miracle-GroCompany and its subsidiaries; and (ii) to refinance the amounts outstanding under the previousformer credit agreement. The Company may use the new credit facility to obtain letters of credit up to $75 million. The new credit facility will terminate on December 20, 2018.facility.
Under the terms of the newformer credit facility, loans made under the new credit facility bear interest, at the Company’s election, at a rate per annum equal to either the ABR or LIBOR (both as defined in the newformer credit facility) plus the applicable margin. Amounts outstanding under the credit facility at September 30, 2014 were at interest rates based on LIBOR applicable to the borrowed currencies plus 150 basis points. The newformer credit facility is guaranteed by substantially all of Scotts Miracle-Gro'sthe Company's domestic subsidiaries, which have a carrying value of $1.6 billion. The credit facilityand is secured by (i) a perfected first priority security interest in all of the accounts receivable, inventory and equipment of the Company and those of Scotts Miracle-Gro’sthe Company's domestic subsidiaries that are parties to the third amended and restated guarantee and collateral agreementguarantors and (ii) the pledge of all of the capital stock of Scotts Miracle-Gro’sthe Company’s domestic subsidiaries that are parties to the third amended and restated guarantee and collateral agreement.guarantors.

As of September 30, 2014, there was $1,194.9 million of availability under the new credit facility, including availability under letters of credit. At September 30, 2014, the Company had letters of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3 million outstanding under the new credit facility.
The new credit facilityagreement contains, among other obligations, an affirmative covenant regarding the Company’s leverage ratio on the last day of each quarter on and after September 30, 2015, calculated as average total indebtedness, as described in the new credit facility, relative todivided by the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”), as adjusted pursuant to the terms of the new credit facilityfacilities (“Adjusted EBITDA”). Under the terms of the new credit facility, theThe maximum leverage ratio was 4.004.50 as of September 30, 2014.2015. The Company’s leverage ratio was 2.182.63 at September 30, 2014.2015. The new credit facilityagreement also includes an affirmative covenant regarding the Company'sits interest coverage ratio. The interest coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by interest expense, as described in the new credit agreement, and excludes costs related to refinancings. Under the terms of the new credit facility, theThe minimum interest coverage ratio was 3.503.00 for the twelve months ended September 30, 2014.2015. The Company’s interest coverage ratio was 9.419.34 for the twelve months ended September 30, 2014.2015. The terms of the new credit agreement allow the Company mayto make unlimited restricted payments (as defined in the third amendednew credit agreement), including increased or one-time dividend payments and restated credit agreement); provided that if after giving effect to any such restricted paymentCommon Share repurchases, so long as the leverage ratio resulting from the making of such restricted payments is not greater than 3.00.4.00 or less. Otherwise the Company may only make restricted payments in an aggregate amount for each fiscal year not to exceed the amount set forth for such fiscal year ($150175.0 million for 20142016 and 20152017 and $175$200.0 million for 20162018 and in each fiscal year thereafter).

82

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Senior Notes-Notes - 7.25%
On January 15, 2014, the Company redeemed all of its outstanding $200.0$200.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior notes due 2018 (the 7.25%“7.25% Senior Notes”) paying a redemption price of $214.5$214.5 million,, which included $7.25$7.25 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $7.25$7.25 million of call premium, and $200.0$200.0 million for outstanding principal amount. The $7.25 million call premium charge was recognized within the “Costs related to refinancing” line on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations in the Company's second quarter of fiscal 2014.2014. Additionally, the Company had $3.5 million in unamortized bond discount and issuance costs associated with the 7.25% Senior Notes that were written-off and recognized in the “Costs related to refinancing” line on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations in the Company's second quarter of fiscal 2014. These amounts are reported in the aggregate in the “Costs related to financing” line in the Consolidated Statement of Operation for fiscal 2014.

79

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Senior Notes-Notes - 6.625%
On December 16, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “6.625% Senior Notes”). The net proceeds of the offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the Company’s then existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes. The 6.625% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations of Scotts Miracle-Gro and rank equal in right of payment with the Company’s existing and future unsecured senior debt, including, without limitation, the 7.25% Senior Notes. The 6.625% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of June 15 and December 15 of each year, which began on June 15, 2011, and may be redeemed prior to maturity starting December 2015 at applicable redemption premiums. The 6.625% Senior Notes contain usual and customary covenants. The 6.625% Senior Notes mature on December 15, 2020. Substantially all of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 6.625% Senior Notes. The 6.625% Senior Notes mature on December 15, 2020. On November 13, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro provided an irrevocable notice to the trustee of its election to redeem all of its outstanding 6.625% Senior Notes for a redemption price of $213.2 million, comprised of $6.6 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $6.6 million of call premium, and $200 million for outstanding principal amount. The $6.6 million call premium charge will be recognized in the Company's first quarter of fiscal 2016. As of September 30, 2015, the Company has classified the $200 million of the 6.625% Senior Notes as long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Additionally, the Company had $2.1 million in unamortized bond issuance costs as of September 30, 2015, which are expected to be written-off in the Company's first quarter of fiscal 2016.
Senior Notes - 6.000%
Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2015, on October 13, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued $400 million aggregate principal amount of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “6.000% Senior Notes”). The net proceeds of the offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the former credit facility. The 6.000% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations and rank equal in right of payment with the Company's existing and future unsecured senior debt. The 6.000% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of April 15 and October 15 of each year, commencing April 15, 2016, and may be redeemed prior to maturity starting October 2018 at applicable redemption premiums. The 6.000% Senior Notes contain usual and customary covenants. The 6.000% Senior Notes mature on October 15, 2023. Substantially all of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 6.000% Senior Notes.
Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement
The Company maintains a Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which provides for the discretionary sale by the Company, and the discretionary purchase by the participating banks, on a revolving basis, of accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million. The MARP Agreement is subject to renewal by mutual agreement at least annually.
On September 25, 2015, the Company entered into an amended and restated MARP Agreement that provides for the discretionary sale and purchase, on a revolving basis, of certain accounts receivable in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million as described above, but adds a commitment period during which the banks will be required to purchase such accounts receivable in an aggregate committed amount not to exceed $160.0 million. The commitment period will begin no earlier than February 20, 2016 and end no later than June 17, 2016, and the commencement and continuation of the commitment period will be subject to, among other things, the absence of any termination event under the MARP Agreement or any default or event of default under our current credit agreement. Under the terms of the amended and restated MARP Agreement, the banks have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by the Company at a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%. The MARP Agreement has a termination date of August 26, 2016. The Company accounts for the sale of receivables under its MARP Agreement as short-term debt and continues to carry the receivables on its Consolidated Balance Sheet, primarily as a result of the Company’s right to repurchase receivables sold. There were $122.3 million and $84.0 million in short-term borrowings under the MARP Agreement as of September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively. As of September 30, 2015, there was $2.8 million of availability under the MARP Agreement. The carrying

83

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $152.9 million and $113.7 million as of September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively.
Interest Rate Swap Agreements
At September 30, 2014, theThe Company hadhas outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions that effectively converted the LIBOR indexconvert a portion of the Company's variable-rate debt denominated in U.S. dollars to a fixed rate. The swap agreements had a total U.S. dollar equivalent notional amount of $1,300$1,300 million at September 30, 20142015. and September 30, 2014. Interest payments made between the effective date and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreements, except as noted below. The notional amount, effective date, expiration date and rate of each of these swap agreements are shown in the table below.
Notional Amount
(in millions)
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 
Effective
Date (a)
 
Expiration
Date
 
Fixed
Rate
Notional Amount
(in millions)
 
Effective
Date (a)
 
Expiration
Date
 
Fixed
Rate
$50
  2/14/2012 2/14/2016 3.78%50
  2/14/2012 2/14/2016 3.78%
150150
(b)  
2/7/2012 5/7/2016 2.42%150
(b)  
2/7/2012 5/7/2016 2.42%
150150
(c) 
11/16/2009 5/16/2016 3.26%150
(c) 
11/16/2009 5/16/2016 3.26%
5050
(b) 
2/16/2010 5/16/2016 3.05%50
(b) 
2/16/2010 5/16/2016 3.05%
100100
(b) 
2/21/2012 5/23/2016 2.40%100
(b) 
2/21/2012 5/23/2016 2.40%
150150
(c) 
12/20/2011 6/20/2016 2.61%150
(c) 
12/20/2011 6/20/2016 2.61%
5050
(d) 
12/6/2012 9/6/2017 2.96%50
(d) 
12/6/2012 9/6/2017 2.96%
200200
 2/7/2014 11/7/2017 1.28%200
 2/7/2014 11/7/2017 1.28%
150150
(b) 
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.12%150
(b) 
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.12%
5050
(c) 
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.25%50
(b) 
2/7/2017 5/7/2019 2.25%
200200
(c) 
12/20/2016 6/20/2019 2.12%200
(c) 
12/20/2016 6/20/2019 2.12%
 
(a)The effective date refers to the date on which interest payments were, or will be, first hedged by the applicable swap agreement.
(b)
Interest payments made during the three-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.
(c)
Interest payments made during the six-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.
(d)
Interest payments made during the nine-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged by the swap agreement.

Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement
The Company accounts for the sale of receivables under the Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which is uncommitted and provides for the discretionary sale by the Company, and the discretionary purchase by the banks, on a revolving basis, of accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million. On August 29, 2014, the Company signed an amendment to the existing MARP Agreement which extended the termination date to August 28, 2015, or such later date as may be agreed by each bank and the Company. Under the amended terms of the MARP Agreement, the banks have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by the Company at a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%.
The Company accounts for the sale of receivables under its MARP Agreement as short-term debt and continues to carry the receivables on its Consolidated Balance Sheet, primarily as a result of the Company’s right to repurchase receivables sold. There

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


were $84.0 million in borrowings under the MARP Agreement as of September 30, 2014 and $85.3 million in borrowings as of September 30, 2013. The carrying value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $113.7 million as of September 30, 2014 and $106.7 million as of September 30, 2013. As of September 30, 2014, there was $27.7 million of availability under the MARP Agreement.
Estimated Fair Values
A description of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s debt instruments is as follows:
Credit Facility
The interest rate currently available to the Company under its credit facility fluctuates with the applicable LIBOR rate, prime rate or Federal Funds Effective Rate and thus the carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value. The fair value measurement for the newformer credit facility was classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
7.25%6.625% Senior Notes
The 7.25% Senior Notes were redeemed by the Company in the second quarter of 2014. The fair value of the 7.25% Senior Notes was determined based on the trading value of the 7.25% Senior Notes in the open market. The difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the 7.25% Senior Notes on a particular date represented the premium or discount on that date. The fair value measurement for the 7.25% Senior Notes was classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
6.625% Senior Notes
The fair value of the 6.625% Senior Notes can bewas determined based on the trading value of the 6.625% Senior Notes in the open market. The difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the 6.625% Senior Notes on a particular date represents the premium or discount on that date. The fair value measurement for the 6.625% Senior Notes was classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
On November 13, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro provided an irrevocable notice to the trustee of its election to redeem all of its outstanding 6.625% Senior Notes for a redemption price of $213.2 million, comprised of $6.6 million of accrued and unpaid interest, $6.6 million of call premium, and $200 million for outstanding principal amount.

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Accounts Receivable Pledged
The interest rate on the short-term debt associated with accounts receivable pledged under the MARP Agreement fluctuates with the applicable LIBOR rate and thus the carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value. The fair value measurement for the MARP Agreement was classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The estimated fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are as follows:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
(In millions)(In millions)
Revolving loans$481.8
 $481.8
 $73.0
 $73.0
$816.3
 $816.3
 $481.8
 $481.8
Senior Notes – 7.25%
 
 200.0
 209.5
Senior Notes – 6.625%200.0
 212.5
 200.0
 213.5
200.0
 206.3
 200.0
 212.5
Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement84.0
 84.0
 85.3
 85.3
122.3
 122.3
 84.0
 84.0
Other18.5
 18.5
 12.2
 12.2
24.7
 24.7
 18.5
 18.5
Weighted Average Interest Rate
The weighted average interest rates on averagethe Company's debt were 4.2% and 5.0% for fiscal 2015 and 6.2% forfiscal 2014, respectively. The decline in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014weighted average interest rate is due to the reduced rates under the former credit facility and 2013, respectively.the redemption of the 7.25% Senior Notes.


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 11.  SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Authorized and issued shares consisted of the following:
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Preferred shares, no par value:  
Authorized0.2 shares 0.2 shares0.2 shares 0.2 shares
Issued0.0 shares 0.0 shares0.0 shares 0.0 shares
Common shares, no par value, $.01 stated value per share 
Common shares, no par value, $.01 stated value per share: 
Authorized100.0 shares 100.0 shares100.0 shares 100.0 shares
Issued68.1 shares 68.1 shares68.1 shares 68.1 shares

In fiscal 1995, The Scotts Company merged with Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc. (“Miracle-Gro”). At September 30, 20142015, the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro, including the Hagedorn Partnership L.P., owned approximately 26% of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s outstanding Common Shares and, thus, have the ability to significantly influence the election of directors and other actions requiring the approval of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s shareholders.
Under the terms of the merger agreement with Miracle-Gro, the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro may not collectively acquire, directly or indirectly, beneficial ownership of Voting Stock (as that term is defined in the Miracle-Gro merger agreement) representing more than 49% of the total voting power of the outstanding Voting Stock, except pursuant to a tender offer for 100% of that total voting power, which tender offer is made at a price per share which is not less than the market price per share on the last trading day before the announcement of the tender offer and is conditioned upon the receipt of at least 50% of the Voting Stock beneficially owned by shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro other than the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro and their affiliates and associates.
In August 2010, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common Shares over a four-year period through September 30, 2014. OnIn May 4, 2011, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of Common Shares, resulting in authority to repurchase a total of up to $700 million of Common Shares through September 30, 2014. From the inception of this share repurchase program in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 through its expiration on September 30, 2014, Scotts Miracle-Gro repurchased approximately 9.9 million Common Shares for $521.2 million to be held in treasury. Common Shares held in treasury totaling 0.80.9 million and 0.70.8 million were reissued in support of

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


share-based compensation awards and employee purchases under the employee stock purchase plan during fiscal 20142015 and fiscal 20132014, respectively.
In August 2014, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common Shares over a four-year period through September 30, 2019. The authorization provides the Company with flexibility to purchase Common Shares from time to time in open market purchases or through privately negotiated transactions. All or part of the repurchases may be made under Rule 10b5-1 plans, which the Company may enter into from time to time and which enable the repurchases to occur on a more regular basis, or pursuant to accelerated share repurchases. The share repurchase authorization, which expires September 30, 2019, may be suspended or discontinued at any time, and there can be no guarantee as to the timing or amount of any repurchases. From the inception of this share repurchase program in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 through September 30, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro repurchased approximately 0.2 million Common Shares for $14.8 million.
In August 2014, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors also authorized a special one-time cash dividend of $2.00 per share payableCommon Share that was paid on September 17, 2014. The payment of the special one-time cash dividend required Scotts Miracle-Gro to adjust the number of Common Shares subject to stock options outstanding under the Scotts Miracle-Gro share-based awards programs, as well as the price at which the awards may be exercised. The adjustments to the outstanding awards resulted in an increase in the number of Common Shares subject to outstanding stock options in an aggregate amount of 0.1 million Common Shares. The methodology used to adjust the awards was consistent with Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 409A and the then-proposed regulations promulgated thereunder and IRC Section 424 and the regulations promulgated thereunder, compliance with which was necessary to avoid adverse tax consequences for the holder of an award. Such methodology also resulted in a fair value for the adjusted awards post-dividend equal to that of the unadjusted awards pre-dividend, with the result that there was no additional compensation expense in accordance with the accounting for modifications to awards under ASC 718.

82

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Share-Based Awards
Scotts Miracle-Gro grants share-based awards annually to officers and certain other employees of the Company and non-employee directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro. The share-based awards have consisted of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, deferred stock units and performance-based awards. Stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) have been granted, though not in recent years. SARs result in less dilution than stock options as the SAR holder receives a net share settlement upon exercise. All of these share-based awards have been made under plans approved by the shareholders. Generally, employee share-based awards provide for three-year cliff vesting. Vesting for non-employee director awards varies based on the length of service and age of each director at the time of the award. Vesting of performance-based awards is dependent on service and achievement of specified performance targets. Share-based awards are forfeited if a holder terminates employment or service with the Company prior to the vesting date. The Company estimates that 15%20% of its share-based awards will be forfeited based on an analysis of historical trends. This assumption is re-evaluated on an annual basis and adjusted as appropriate. Stock options and SAR awards have exercise prices equal to the market price of the underlying Common Shares on the date of grant with a term of 10 years. If available, Scotts Miracle-Gro will typically use treasury shares, or if not available, newly-issued Common Shares, in satisfaction of its share-based awards.
A maximum of 2323.1 million Common Shares are available for issuance under share-based award plans. At September 30, 2014,2015, approximately 3.02.4 million Common Shares were not subject to outstanding awards and were available to underlie the grant of new share-based awards.
The following is a recap of the share-based awards granted during the periods indicated:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Employees          
Options
 
 464,061
440,690
 
 
Restricted stock units112,315
 178,030
 107,373
78,463
 112,315
 178,030
Performance units161,229
 178,321
 110,079
78,352
 161,229
 178,321
Board of Directors          
Deferred stock units38,418
 33,253
 30,943
29,913
 38,418
 33,253
Options due to special $2.00 dividend98,186
 
 

 98,186
 
Total share-based awards311,962
 389,604
 712,456
627,418
 311,962
 389,604
Aggregate fair value at grant dates (in millions)$17.5
 $17.5
 $17.4
$17.0
 $17.5
 $17.5


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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Total share-based compensation was as follows for the periods indicated: 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Share-based compensation$11.1
 $10.3
 $12.5
$13.2
 $11.1
 $10.3
Tax benefit recognized3.9
 3.9
 4.8
5.1
 3.9
 3.9

As of September 30, 2014,2015, total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based awards amounted to $11.6 million.$10.9 million. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.81.7 years. The tax benefit realized from the tax deductions associated with the exercise of share-based awards and the vesting of restricted stock totaled $15.1$12.1 million for fiscal 20142015.
On March 30, 2015, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued 0.2 million Common Shares (which represented a carrying value of $8.3 million) out of its treasury shares for payment of the acquisition of Vermicrop.
Stock Options/SARs
Aggregate stock option and SAR activity consisted of the following for fiscal 2015 (options/SARs in millions):
 
No. of
  Options/SARs  
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
Beginning balance2.0
 $38.26
Granted0.4
 63.60
Exercised(0.6) 38.23
Forfeited
 
Ending balance1.8
 44.38
Exercisable1.3
 38.23
At September 30, 2015, the Company expects 0.4 million of the remaining unexercisable stock options (after forfeitures), with a weighted-average exercise price of $63.63 and average remaining term of 9.3 years, to vest in the future. These options had an intrinsic value of zero as of September 30, 2015 as the weighted-average exercise price was greater than the period end stock price. The following summarizes certain information pertaining to stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2015 (options/SARs in millions): 
  Awards Outstanding Awards Exercisable
Range of
Exercise Price
 
No. of
Options/
SARs
 
WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
 
No. of
Options/
SARS
 
WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
$20.59 – $27.31 0.3
 3.01 $20.59
 0.2
 3.01
 $20.59
$29.30 – $36.86 0.4
 1.53 36.43
 0.4
 1.53
 36.43
$38.81 – $49.19 0.7
 5.20 45.26
 0.7
 5.20
 45.26
$63.43 – $67.40 0.4
 9.34 63.60
 
 
 
  1.8
 5.05 $44.38
 1.3
 3.67
 $38.23
.The intrinsic value of the stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2015 were as follows (in millions):
 2015
Outstanding$30.4
Exercisable30.4


8387

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Stock Options/SARs
Aggregate stock option and SAR activity consisted of the following for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014 (options/SARs in millions):
 
No. of
  Options/SARs  
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
Beginning balance2.7
 $37.60
Granted0.1
 40.89
Exercised(0.8) 30.80
Forfeited
 
Ending balance2.0
 38.26
Exercisable1.6
 36.70
At September 30, 2014, the Company expects 0.3 million of the remaining unexercisable stock options (after forfeitures), with a weighted-average exercise price of $45.36, intrinsic value of $3.4 million and average remaining term of 7.3 years, to vest in the future. The following summarizes certain information pertaining to stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2014 (options/SARs in millions):
  Awards Outstanding Awards Exercisable
Range of
Exercise Price
 
No. of
Options/
SARs
 
WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
 
No. of
Options/
SARS
 
WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life
 
WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price
$20.59 – $28.72 0.3
 3.80 $20.98
 0.3
 3.80 $20.98
$29.01 – $37.03 0.8
 2.13 35.82
 0.8
 2.13 35.82
$37.89 – $49.19 0.9
 6.10 45.17
 0.5
 5.35 45.05
  2.0
 4.22 $38.26
 1.6
 3.54 $36.70
The intrinsic value of the stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30 were as follows (in millions):
 2014
Outstanding$33.3
Exercisable29.8

The grant date fair value of stock option awards is estimated using a binomial model and the assumptions in the following table. Expected market price volatility is based on implied volatilities from traded options on Common Shares and historical volatility specific to the Common Shares. Historical data, including demographic factors impacting historical exercise behavior, is used to estimate stock option exercises and employee terminations within the valuation model. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life (normally ten years) of the stock option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The expected life of stock options is based on historical experience and expectations for grants outstanding. No stock option awards were granted in fiscal 2014 and 2013. The weighted average assumptions for awards granted in fiscal 20122015 are as follows: 
Year Ended September 30,
 2012 2015
Expected market price volatility 33.2% 26.6%
Risk-free interest rates 1.2% 1.3%
Expected dividend yield 2.5% 2.8%
Expected life of stock options in years 5.96
 6.0
Estimated weighted-average fair value per stock option $11.50
 $11.51

The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $21.316.3 million, $8.121.3 million and $23.98.1 million during fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively. Cash received from the exercise of stock options for fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013 was $24.3 million, $20.0 million, $13.3 million and $17.6$13.3 million, respectively.

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Restricted share-based awards
Restricted share-based award activity (including restricted stock, restricted stock units and deferred stock units) was as follows:
No. of
Shares
 
WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Share
No. of
Shares
 
WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Share
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2011696,906
 $35.22
Granted138,316
 47.53
Vested(301,132) 22.25
Forfeited(36,891) 45.28
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2012497,199
 45.75
497,199
 $45.75
Granted211,283
 44.80
211,283
 44.80
Vested(251,855) 40.87
(251,855) 40.87
Forfeited(46,976) 53.54
(46,976) 53.54
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2013409,651
 47.36
409,651
 47.36
Granted150,733
 59.35
150,733
 59.35
Vested(81,597) 41.88
(81,597) 41.88
Forfeited(44,895) 47.43
(44,895) 47.43
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2014433,892
 52.55
433,892
 52.55
Granted108,376
 63.85
Vested(135,562) 47.33
Forfeited(25,197) 58.44
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2015381,509
 57.22
 
The total fair value of restricted stock units and deferred stock units vested was $3.46.2 million, $10.33.4 million and $3.110.3 million during fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013, respectively. The total fair value

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THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Performance-based awards
Performance-based award activity was as follows:
No. of
Units
 
WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Unit
No. of
Units
 
WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Unit
Awards outstanding at September 30, 201142,300
 $51.73
Granted114,279
 47.63
Vested
 
Forfeited(2,670) 47.66
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2012153,909
 45.48
153,909
 $45.48
Granted178,321
 45.06
178,321
 45.06
Vested
 

 
Forfeited(70,313) 46.62
(70,313) 46.62
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2013261,917
 46.81
261,917
 46.81
Granted161,229
 59.39
161,229
 59.39
Vested
 

 
Forfeited(111,897) 53.24
(111,897) 53.24
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2014311,249
 51.21
311,249
 51.21
Granted78,352
 63.36
Vested(49,467) 47.66
Forfeited(910) 47.66
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2015339,224
 54.86

NOTE 12.  EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
Basic income per Common Share is computed by dividing income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations, income (loss) from discontinued operations or net income attributable to controlling interest by the weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding. Diluted income per Common Share areis computed by dividing income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations, income (loss) from discontinued operations or net income attributable to controlling interest by the weighted average number of Common Shares outstanding plus all potentially dilutive securities outstanding each period. Stock options with exercise prices greater than the average market price of the underlying Common Shares are excluded from the computation of diluted income per Common Share because they are out-of-the-money and the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. The number of Common Shares covered by out-of-the-money options was 0.3 million, 0.0 million and 0.8 million for the years ended September 30, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The following table presents information necessary to calculate basic and diluted income per Common Share.

8589

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


computation of diluted income per Common Share because they are out-of-the-money and the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. There were no Common Shares covered by out-of-the-money stock options for the year ended September 30, 2014 and 0.8 million and 0.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The following table presents information necessary to calculate basic and diluted income per Common Share.
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions, except per share data)(In millions, except per share data)
Income attributable to controlling interest from continuing operations$165.7
 $159.4
 $111.6
$159.8
 $165.7
 $159.4
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.8
 1.7
 (5.1)
Income from discontinued operations
 0.8
 1.7
Net income attributable to controlling interest$166.5
 $161.1
 $106.5
$159.8
 $166.5
 $161.1
BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
    
    
Weighted-average Common Shares outstanding
during the period
61.6
 61.7
 61.0
61.1
 61.6
 61.7
Income from continuing operations$2.69
 $2.58
 $1.83
$2.62
 $2.69
 $2.58
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.03
 (0.08)
Income from discontinued operations
 0.01
 0.03
Net income$2.70
 $2.61
 $1.75
$2.62
 $2.70
 $2.61
DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:          
Weighted-average Common Shares outstanding
during the period
61.6
 61.7
 61.0
61.1
 61.6
 61.7
Dilutive potential Common Shares1.1
 0.9
 1.1
1.1
 1.1
 0.9
Weighted-average number of Common Shares outstanding and dilutive potential Common Shares62.7
 62.6
 62.1
62.2
 62.7
 62.6
Income from continuing operations$2.64
 $2.55
 $1.80
$2.57
 $2.64
 $2.55
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.02
 (0.09)
Income from discontinued operations
 0.01
 0.02
Net income$2.65
 $2.57
 $1.71
$2.57
 $2.65
 $2.57

NOTE 13.  INCOME TAXES
The provision (benefit) for income taxes allocated to continuing operations consisted of the following:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Current:          
Federal$67.0
 $55.0
 $29.2
$72.4
 $67.0
 $55.0
State8.6
 7.4
 5.6
9.5
 8.6
 7.4
Foreign3.5
 4.4
 7.3
2.2
 3.5
 4.4
Total Current79.1
 66.8
 42.1
84.1
 79.1
 66.8
Deferred:          
Federal10.8
 24.0
 24.7
0.8
 10.8
 24.0
State1.4
 1.2
 1.4
1.2
 1.4
 1.2
Foreign(0.1) (0.1) (0.4)(0.7) (0.1) (0.1)
Total Deferred12.1
 25.1
 25.7
1.3
 12.1
 25.1
Provision for income taxes$91.2
 $91.9
 $67.8
$85.4
 $91.2
 $91.9

The domestic and foreign components of income from continuing operations before income taxes were as follows:
 Year Ended September 30,
 2015 2014 2013
 (In millions)
Domestic$217.7
 $231.0
 $236.5
Foreign26.4
 25.6
 14.8
Income from continuing operations before income taxes$244.1
 $256.6
 $251.3


8690

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The domestic and foreign components of income from continuing operations before income taxes were as follows:
 Year Ended September 30,
 2014 2013 2012
 (In millions)
Domestic$231.0
 $236.5
 $163.7
Foreign25.6
 14.8
 15.7
Income from continuing operations before income taxes$256.6
 $251.3
 $179.4

A reconciliation of the federal corporate income tax rate and the effective tax rate on income from continuing operations before income taxes is summarized below:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Statutory income tax rate35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
Effect of foreign operations1.5
 0.8
 (0.5)(0.5) 1.5
 0.8
State taxes, net of federal benefit2.7
 2.9
 3.1
3.1
 2.7
 2.9
Domestic Production Activities Deduction permanent difference(2.7) (2.1) (1.5)(3.1) (2.7) (2.1)
Effect of other permanent differences0.2
 0.8
 2.4
0.1
 0.2
 0.8
Research and Experimentation and other federal tax credits(0.8) (0.3) (0.1)(0.2) (0.8) (0.3)
Resolution of prior tax contingencies0.2
 0.2
 (0.9)0.4
 0.2
 0.2
Other(0.5) (0.7) 0.3
0.2
 (0.5) (0.7)
Effective income tax rate35.6 % 36.6 % 37.8 %35.0 % 35.6 % 36.6 %

Included in “Effect of other permanent differences” in the effective tax rate reconciliation table above are nondeductible fines and penalties of $0.0 million, $0.4 million and $4.8 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012 respectively, from the settlement of previously disclosed U.S. EPA and U.S. DOJ investigations. The Company does not expect to incur additional costs related to these investigations.


87

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between financial reporting and tax reporting bases of assets and liabilities, and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards for tax purposes. The components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
DEFERRED TAX ASSETS      
Inventories$14.7
 $13.7
$14.1
 $14.7
Accrued liabilities59.7
 59.2
71.6
 59.7
Postretirement benefits32.4
 33.7
30.3
 32.4
Accounts receivable7.2
 7.3
8.3
 7.2
State NOL carryovers1.3
 1.1
1.0
 1.3
Foreign NOL carryovers48.2
 51.6
45.0
 48.2
Foreign tax credit carryovers4.6
 8.6
8.6
 4.6
Interest rate swaps4.2
 6.3
4.9
 4.2
Other3.1
 6.0
3.3
 3.1
Gross deferred tax assets175.4
 187.5
187.1
 175.4
Valuation allowance(48.3) (51.5)(45.8) (48.3)
Total deferred tax assets127.1
 136.0
141.3
 127.1
DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES      
Property, plant and equipment(59.2) (62.3)(59.7) (59.2)
Intangible assets(106.6) (99.5)(114.8) (106.6)
Other(9.5) (3.3)(14.0) (9.5)
Total deferred tax liabilities(175.3) (165.1)(188.5) (175.3)
Net deferred tax liability$(48.2) $(29.1)$(47.2) $(48.2)

The net current and non-current components of deferred income taxes recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets were:
September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Net current deferred tax assets (classified with prepaid and other assets)$72.2
 $67.1
$78.2
 $72.2
Net non-current deferred tax liabilities (classified with other liabilities)(120.4) (96.2)(125.4) (120.4)
Net deferred tax liability$(48.2) $(29.1)$(47.2) $(48.2)


91

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


GAAP requires that a valuation allowance be recorded against a deferred tax asset if it is more likely than not that the tax benefit associated with the asset will not be realized in the future. As shown in the table above, valuation allowances were recorded against $48.3$45.8 million and $51.5$48.3 million of deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2015, and September 30, 2014,, and September 30, 2013, respectively. Most of these valuation allowances relate to certain foreign net operating losses, as explained further below.
The Company has elected to treat certain foreign entities as disregarded entities for U.S. tax purposes, which results in their net income or loss being recognized currently in the Company’s U.S. tax return. As such, the tax benefit of net operating losses available for foreign statutory tax purposes has already been recognized for U.S. purposes. Accordingly, a full valuation allowance is required on the tax benefit of these net operating losses on global consolidation. The foreign net operating losses of these foreign disregarded entities were $183.3$169.9 million at September 30, 2014,2015, the majority of which have indefinite carryforward periods. The statutory tax benefit of these net operating loss carryovers, and related full valuation allowances thereon, amounted to $45.5$41.2 million and $49.7$45.5 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, and September 30, 2013, respectively.
Foreign net operating losses of certain controlled foreign corporations were $11.0$14.1 million as of September 30, 2014,2015, the majority of which have indefinite carryforward periods. Due to a history of losses in these entities, a full valuation allowance has also been placed against the statutory tax benefit associated with all but an immaterial amount of these losses amounting to $2.7$3.4 million and $1.8$2.7 million at September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively.
Foreign tax credits were $8.6 million and $4.6 million at September 30, 2013,2015 and September 30, 2014, respectively.

88

Table A valuation allowance in the amount of Contents$0.8 million has been established against those foreign tax credits the Company does not expect to utilize prior to their expiration.
THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


State net operating losses were $17.3$13.5 million as of September 30, 2014,2015, with carryforward periods ranging from 5 to 20 years. Any losses not utilized within a specific state’s carryforward period will expire. Tax benefits associated with state tax credits will expire if not utilized and amounted to $0.6 million and $0.5$0.6 million at both September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 2013.2014. No valuation allowance has been placed against these net operating losses and credits as the Company should fully utilize them within their respective carryover periods. A valuation allowance in the amount of $0.2 million has been established related to state credits the Company does not expect to utilize.
Deferred taxes have not been provided on unremitted earnings of $153.0$146.0 million for certain foreign subsidiaries and foreign corporate joint ventures as such earnings have been indefinitely reinvested. These foreign entities held cash and cash equivalents of $59.9$55.1 million and $120.4$59.9 million at September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014, and September 30, 2013, respectively. Our current plans do not demonstrate a need to, nor do we have plans to, repatriate the retained earnings from these subsidiaries as the earnings are indefinitely reinvested. In the future, if we determine it is necessary to repatriate these funds, or we sell or liquidate any of these subsidiaries, we may be required to pay associated taxes on the repatriation. We may also be required to withhold foreign taxes depending on the foreign jurisdiction from which the funds are repatriated. The effective rate of tax on such repatriations may materially differ from the federal statutory tax rate and could have a material impact on tax expense in the year of repatriation; however, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the amount of such a tax event.
GAAP provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement.
The Company had $11.2$9.2 million,, $6.7 $11.2 million and $7.0$6.7 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions at September 30, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012,2013, respectively. Included in the September 30, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 20122013 balances were $8.5$6.6 million,, $6.7 $8.5 million and $6.9$6.7 million,, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would have an impact on the effective tax rate.

92

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Balance at beginning of year$6.7
 $7.0
 $8.9
$11.2
 $6.7
 $7.0
Additions for tax positions of the current year0.2
 0.3
 1.0
0.2
 0.2
 0.3
Additions for tax positions of prior years7.6
 4.3
 2.9
4.1
 7.6
 4.3
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(2.7) (3.8) (4.1)(3.2) (2.7) (3.8)
Settlements with tax authorities
 (0.4) (0.5)(2.7) 
 (0.4)
Expiration of statutes of limitation(0.6) (0.7) (1.2)(0.4) (0.6) (0.7)
Balance at end of year$11.2
 $6.7
 $7.0
$9.2
 $11.2
 $6.7

The Company continues to recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of the provision for income taxes. As of September 30, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012,2013, respectively, the Company had $1.8$1.8 million,, $1.8 $1.8 million and $1.8$1.8 million accrued for the payment of interest that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. As of September 30, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012,2013, respectively, the Company had $0.6$0.7 million,, $0.7 $0.6 million and $0.8$0.7 million accrued for the payment of penalties that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014,2015, the Company recognized $0.3 million ofno material tax interest and tax penalties in its Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Scotts Miracle-Gro or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, which are discussed further below, the Company is no longer subject to examinationsexamination by these tax authorities for fiscal years prior to fiscal 2011.2012. The Company is currently under examination by the Internal Revenue Service and certain foreign and U.S. state and local tax authorities. The U.S. Federalfederal examination is limited to fiscal year 2011.2011 and is expected to close in fiscal year 2016. Regarding the foreign jurisdictions, ana German audit is currently underwaycommenced in France forthe third quarter of 2015 covering fiscal 2010years 2009 through 2012. Additionally, a Chinese (Wuhan) audit commenced in the fourth quarter of 2015 covering fiscal 2012.years 2011 through 2014. In regard to the multiple U.S. state and local audits, the tax periods under examinationsexamination are limited to fiscal 20092008 through fiscal 2012.2013. In addition to thesethe aforementioned audits, certain other tax deficiency notices and refund claims for previous years remain unresolved.
The Company currently anticipates that few of its open and active audits will be resolved inwithin the next 12 months. The Company is unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to when or if cash settlements with taxing authorities may occur. Although audit outcomes and the timing of audit payments are subject to significant uncertainty, the Company does not anticipate

89

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


that the resolution of these tax matters or any events related thereto will result in a material change to its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
Management judgment is required in determining tax provisions and evaluating tax positions. Management believes its tax positions and related provisions reflected in the consolidated financial statements are fully supportable and appropriate. The Company established reserves for additional income taxes that may become due if the tax positions are challenged and not sustained, and as such, the Company’s tax provision includes the impact of recording reserves and changes thereto.

NOTE 14.  DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
The Company is exposed to market risks, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates and commodity prices. To manage a portion of the volatility related to these exposures, the Company enters into various financial transactions. The utilization of these financial transactions is governed by policies covering acceptable counterparty exposure, instrument types and other hedging practices. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative trading purposes.
Exchange Rate Risk Management
The Company uses foreign currency forward contracts to manage the exchange rate risk associated with intercompany loans with foreign subsidiaries that are denominated in local currencies. At September 30, 20142015, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency forward contracts was $149.0$52.3 million,, with a negative fair value of $0.1 million.$0.7 million. At September 30, 20132014, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency forward contracts was $80.4149.0 million, with a negative fair value of $2.10.1 million. The unrealized loss on the foreignfair value of currency forward contracts approximatesis determined using forward rates in commonly quoted intervals for the unrealized gain onfull term of the intercompany loans recognized by the Company’s lending subsidiaries.contracts. The outstanding contracts will mature over fiscal 2015.year 2016.

93

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Interest Rate Risk Management
The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements as a means to hedge changes in cash flows attributable toits variable interest rate risk on debt instruments. The fair values are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Net amounts to be received or paid under the swap agreements are reflected as adjustments to interest expense. Since the interest rate swap agreements have been designated as hedging instruments, unrealized gains or losses resulting from adjusting these swaps to fair value are recorded as elements of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) within the Consolidated Balance Sheets except for any ineffective portion of the change in fair value, which is immediately recorded in interest expense. The fair value of the swap agreements is determined based on the present value of the estimated future net cash flows using implied rates in the applicable yield curve as of the valuation date. On December 20, 2013, in conjunction with entering into the newformer credit facility, the Company recognized hedge ineffectiveness of $2.0 million which was recorded to interest expense.
At September 30, 20142015 and 20132014, the Company hadhas outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions that effectively convertedconvert a portion of the Company’s variable-rate debt to a fixed rate. The swap agreements had a total U.S. dollar equivalent notional amount of $1,300.0$1,300.0 million and $1,100.0 million at September 30, 20142015 and 20132014 respectively.. Refer to “NOTE 10. DEBT” for the terms of the swap agreements outstanding at September 30, 20142015. Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 20142015 was a loss of $6.3$5.2 million related to interest rate swap agreements that is expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12twelve months, consistent with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions.
Commodity Price Risk Management
The Company has outstandingenters into hedging arrangements designed to fix the price of a portion of its projected future urea requirements. The contracts are designated as hedges of the Company’s exposure to future cash flow fluctuations associated with the cost of urea. The objective of the hedges is to mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility attributable to the risk of changing prices. UnrealizedSince the contracts have been designated as hedging instruments, unrealized gains or losses in theresulting from adjusting these contracts to fair value of these contracts are recorded toas elements of AOCI within the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Realized gains or losses remain as a component of AOCI until the related inventory is sold. Upon sale of the underlying inventory, the gain or loss is reclassified to cost of sales. Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 20142015 was an immaterial gaina loss of $0.2 million related to urea derivatives that is expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12twelve months, consistent with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions.
The Company also uses derivatives to partially mitigate the effect of fluctuating diesel and gasoline costs on operating results. Any such derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP are recorded at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses on open contracts and realized gains or losses on settled contracts recorded as an element of cost of sales. Unrealized gains or losses in the fair value of contracts that do qualify for hedge accounting are recorded in AOCI except for any ineffective portion of the change in fair value, which is immediately recorded in earnings. For the effective portion of the change in fair value, realized gains or losses remain as a component of AOCI until the related fuel is consumed. Upon consumption of the fuel, the gain or loss is reclassified to cost of sales. At September 30, 2015, there were no amounts included within AOCI related to fuel derivatives.
The Company had the following outstanding commodity contracts that were entered into to hedge forecasted purchases:
 September 30,
 2015 2014
Commodity   
Urea52,500 tons 58,500 tons
Diesel5,754,000 gallons 5,250,000 gallons
Gasoline504,000 gallons 462,000 gallons
Heating Oil2,772,000 gallons 4,494,000 gallons

9094

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


consumption of the fuel, the gain or loss is reclassified to cost of sales. Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 2014 was a loss of $0.1 million related to fuel derivatives that is expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12 months. The amounts recorded in earnings related to ineffectiveness of derivative hedges for the years ended September, 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were not significant.
The Company had the following outstanding commodity contracts that were entered into to hedge forecasted purchases:
 September 30,
 2014 2013
Commodity   
Urea58,500 tons 49,500 tons
Diesel5,250,000 gallons 3,528,000 gallons
Gasoline462,000 gallons 630,000 gallons
Heating Oil4,494,000 gallons 2,940,000 gallons

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
The fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments were as follows:
 Assets / (Liabilities) Assets / (Liabilities)
  2014 2013  2015 2014
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments Balance Sheet LocationFair Value Balance Sheet LocationFair Value
 (In millions) (In millions)
Interest rate swap agreements Other assets$4.0
 $3.7
 Other assets$
 $4.0
 Other current liabilities(10.3) (8.3) Other current liabilities(8.8) (10.3)
 Other liabilities(5.2) (12.1) Other liabilities(4.6) (5.2)
Commodity hedging instruments Prepaid and other assets
 0.1
 Other current liabilities(1.3) (0.6)
 Other current liabilities(0.6) (2.0)
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments $(12.1) $(18.6) $(14.7) $(12.1)
        
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments Balance Sheet Location    Balance Sheet Location   
Foreign currency forward contracts Other current liabilities$(0.1) $(2.1)
Currency forward contracts Other current liabilities$(0.7) $(0.1)
Commodity hedging instruments Other current liabilities(1.3) (0.3) Other current liabilities(3.9) (1.3)
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments $(1.4) $(2.4) $(4.6) $(1.4)
Total derivatives $(13.5) $(21.0) $(19.3) $(13.5)
The effect of derivative instruments on AOCI and the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the yearyears ended September 30 was as follows: 
 
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized in AOCI
 
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized in AOCI
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships 2014 2013 2015 2014
 (In millions) (In millions)
Interest rate swap agreements $(6.6) $(1.0) $(7.7) $(6.6)
Commodity hedging instruments 1.7
 (2.3) (0.9) 1.7
Total $(4.9) $(3.3) $(8.6) $(4.9)
 
   Reclassified From AOCI Into Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Statement of Operations 2015 2014
    (In millions)
Interest rate swap agreements Interest expense $(6.5) $(10.0)
Commodity hedging instruments Cost of sales 
 0.5
Total   $(6.5) $(9.5)
    Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Derivatives not Designated As Hedging Instruments Recognized in Statement of Operations 2015 2014
    (In millions)
Currency forward contracts Other income, net $8.1
 $(0.7)
Commodity hedging instruments Cost of sales (11.4) (1.0)
Total   $(3.3) $(1.7)


9195

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


   Reclassified From AOCI Into Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Statement of Operations 2014 2013
    (In millions)
Interest rate swap agreements Interest expense $(10.0) $(8.4)
Commodity hedging instruments Cost of sales 0.5
 
Total   $(9.5) $(8.4)
    Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Derivatives not Designated As Hedging Instruments Recognized in Statement of Operations 2014 2013
    (In millions)
Foreign currency forward contracts Other income, net $(0.7) $6.7
Commodity hedging instruments Cost of sales (1.0) (0.6)
Total   $(1.7) $6.1

NOTE 15.  FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or the most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:
Level 1—1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2—2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3—3 — Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. This includes pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.
The following describes the valuation methodologies used for financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy.
Derivatives
Derivatives consist of foreign currency, interest rate and commodity derivative instruments. The fair value of foreign currencyCurrency forward contracts is determined based on changesare valued using observable forward rates in spot rates.commonly quoted intervals for the full term of the contracts. Interest rate swap agreements are valued based on the present value of the estimated future net cash flows using implied rates in the applicable yield curve as of the valuation date. Commodity contracts are measured using observable commodity exchange prices in active markets.
These derivative instruments are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy and are included within other assets and other liabilities in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets, except for amountsderivative instruments expected to be settled within the next 12 months, which are included within prepaid and other current assets and other current liabilities.
Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments purchasedfinancial instruments with a maturityoriginal maturities of three months or less. The carrying value of these cash equivalents approximates fair value due to their short-term maturities.
Other
Other financial assets consist of investment securities in non-qualified retirement plan assets. These securities are valued using observable market prices in active markets.

9296

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 20142015:
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
(In millions)(In millions)
Assets              
Cash equivalents$32.0
 $
 $
 $32.0
$28.6
 $
 $
 $28.6
Derivatives       
Interest rate swap agreements
 4.0
 
 4.0
Other8.9
 
 
 8.9
8.9
 
 
 8.9
Total$40.9
 $4.0
 $
 $44.9
$37.5
 $
 $
 $37.5
Liabilities              
Derivatives              
Interest rate swap agreements$
 $(15.5) $
 $(15.5)$
 $(13.4) $
 $(13.4)
Foreign currency forward contracts
 (0.1) 
 (0.1)
Currency forward contracts
 (0.7) 
 (0.7)
Commodity hedging instruments
 (1.9) 
 (1.9)
 (5.2) 
 (5.2)
Total$
 $(17.5) $
 $(17.5)$
 $(19.3) $
 $(19.3)
The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2014:
 
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
 (In millions)
Assets       
Cash equivalents$32.0
 $
 $
 $32.0
Derivatives
 
 
 
Interest rate swap agreements
 4.0
 
 4.0
Other8.9
 
 
 8.9
Total$40.9
 $4.0
 $
 $44.9
Liabilities
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
 
 
Interest rate swap agreements$
 $(15.5) $
 $(15.5)
Currency forward contracts
 (0.1) 
 (0.1)
Commodity hedging instruments
 (1.9) 
 (1.9)
Total$
 $(17.5) $
 $(17.5)
As of September 30, 2015, there were no non-financial assets or liabilities measured at fair-value on a non-recurring basis. The following presents the Company’s non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at September 30, 2014 and describes the valuation methodologies used for non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy:
 
 
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Losses
 (In millions)
Ortho® brands and sub-brands
$
 $
 $92.3
 $33.7


97

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


As a result of the Company's impairment review performed in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $33.7 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand. The remaining fair value of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands iswas $92.3 million. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth expectations of the Ortho® business using a royalty savings methodology similar to that employed when the associated business was acquired with updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability.


93

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2013:
 
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total
 (In millions)
Assets       
Cash equivalents$83.9
 $
 $
 $83.9
Derivatives
 
 
 
Interest rate swap agreements
 3.7
 
 3.7
Commodity hedging instruments
 0.1
 
 0.1
Other7.0
 
 
 7.0
Total$90.9
 $3.8
 $
 $94.7
Liabilities
 
 
 
Derivatives
 
 
 
Interest rate swap agreements$
 $(20.4) $
 $(20.4)
Foreign currency forward contracts
 (2.1) 
 (2.1)
Commodity hedging instruments
 (2.3) 
 (2.3)
Total$
 $(24.8) $
 $(24.8)
The following presents the Company’s non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at September 30, 2013 and describes the valuation methodologies used for non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy:
 
Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Total
Losses
 (In millions)
Global Consumer insect repellent technology$
 $
 $
 $4.3
Ortho® brands and sub-brands

 
 126.0
 11.6

The intangible asset related to the insect repellent technology was determined to be fully impaired based on the estimated future cash flows associated with the insect repellent technology in relation to its carrying value. Also, as a result of the Company's annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®.Certain finite-lived sub-brands of Ortho® were determined to be fully impaired. The remaining fair value of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands was $126.0 million. The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth of the Ortho® business using a royalty savings methodology similar to that employed when the associated business was acquired with updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability.


94

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 16.  OPERATING LEASES
The Company leases certain property and equipment from third parties under various non-cancelable operating lease agreements. Certain lease agreements contain renewal and purchase options. The lease agreements generally require that the Company pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the leased assets. Future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating leases at September 30, 20142015, were as follows (in millions):
 
2015$46.4
201636.2
$50.4
201726.3
43.2
201820.1
36.5
201917.1
31.1
202024.1
Thereafter27.0
43.2
Total future minimum lease payments$173.1
$228.5

The Company also leases certain vehicles (primarily cars and light trucks) under agreements that are cancelable after the first year, but typically continue on a month-to-month basis until canceled by the Company. The vehicle leases and certain other non-cancelable operating leases contain residual value guarantees that create a contingent obligation on the part of the Company to compensate the lessor if the leased asset cannot be sold for an amount in excess of a specified minimum value at the conclusion of the lease term. If all such vehicle leases had been canceled as of September 30, 20142015, the Company’s residual value guarantee would have approximated $6.4 million.$6.4 million.
Other residual value guarantee amounts that apply at the conclusion of non-cancelable lease terms are as follows:
 
Amount of
Guarantee
 
Lease
Termination Date
Amount of
Guarantee
 
Lease
Termination Date
(In millions) (In millions) 
Scotts LawnService® vehicles
$0.8
 2020$1.6
 2019 - 2022
Corporate aircraft30.9
 2016 and 201927.0
 2019
 
Included within the table above is a residual value guarantee related to a sale and leaseback transaction of a corporate aircraft completed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.

Rent expense for fiscal 20142015, fiscal 20132014 and fiscal 20122013 totaled $71.276.5 million, $61.971.2 million and $69.061.9 million, respectively.

NOTE 17.  COMMITMENTS
The Company has the following unconditional purchase obligations due during each of the next five fiscal years that have not been recognized onin the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 20142015 (in millions):
 
2015$127.1
201650.0
$134.2
201719.7
42.3
20184.8
27.4
20196.8
7.9
20201.6
Thereafter0.5

$208.9
$213.4

Purchase obligations primarily represent commitments for materials used in the Company’s manufacturing processes, as well as commitments for warehouse services, grass seed and out-sourced information services. In addition, the Company leases

98

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


certain property and equipment from third parties under various non-cancelable operating lease agreements. Future minimum lease payments for non-cancelable operating leases not included above are included in “NOTE 16. OPERATING LEASES.”


95

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 18.  CONTINGENCIES
Management regularly evaluates the Company’s contingencies, including various lawsuits and claims which arise in the normal course of business, product and general liabilities, workers’ compensation, property losses and other liabilities for which the Company is self-insured or retains a high exposure limit. Self-insurance reserves are established based on actuarial loss estimates for specific individual claims plus actuarially estimated amounts for incurred but not reported claims and adverse development factors applied to existing claims. Legal costs incurred in connection with the resolution of claims, lawsuits and other contingencies generally are expensed as incurred. In the opinion of management, the assessment of contingencies is reasonable and related reserves, in the aggregate, are adequate; however, there can be no assurance that final resolution of these matters will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Regulatory Matters
At September 30, 20142015, $5.4$5.6 million was accrued in the “Other liabilities” line in the Consolidated Balance Sheet for environmental actions, the majority of which isare for site remediation. The amounts accrued are believed to be adequate to cover such known environmental exposures based on current facts and estimates of likely outcomes. Although it is reasonably possible that the costs to resolve such known environmental exposures will exceed the amounts accrued, any variation from accrued amounts is not expected to be material.
Other
The Company has been named as a defendant in a number of cases alleging injuries that the lawsuits claim resulted from exposure to asbestos-containing products, apparently based on the Company’s historic use of vermiculite in certain of its products. In many of these cases, the complaints are not specific about the plaintiffs’ contacts with the Company or its products. The cases vary, but complaints in these cases generally seek unspecified monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential and punitive) from multiple defendants. The Company believes that the claims against it are without merit and is vigorously defending against them. It is not currently possible to reasonably estimate a probable loss, if any, associated with these cases and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in the Company’sCompany's Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company is reviewing agreements and policies that may provide insurance coverage or indemnity as to these claims and is pursuing coverage under some of these agreements and policies, although there can be no assurance of the results of these efforts. There can be no assurance that these cases, whether as a result of adverse outcomes or as a result of significant defense costs, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
In connection with the sale of wild bird food products that were the subject of a voluntary recall in 2008, the Company has been named as a defendant in four putative class actions filed on and after June 27, 2012, which have now been consolidated in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California as In re Morning Song Bird Food Litigation, Lead Case No. 3:12-cv-01592-JAH-RBB. The plaintiffs allege various statutory and common law claims associated with the Company's sale of wild bird food products and a plea agreement entered into in previously pending government proceedings associated with such sales. The plaintiffs allege, among other things, a purported class action on behalf of all persons and entities in the United States who purchased certain bird food products. The plaintiffs assert hundreds of millions of dollars in monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential, and restitution), punitive and treble); reimbursement, restitution, and disgorgement for benefits unjustly conferred;treble damages; injunctive and declaratory relief; pre-judgment and post-judgment interest; and costs and attorneys' fees. The Company disputes the plaintiffs' assertions and intends to vigorously defend the consolidated action. GivenAt this point in the early stages of the action,proceedings, it is not currently possible to reasonably estimate a probable loss, if any, associated with the action and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements with respect to the action. There can be no assurance that this action, whether as a result of an adverse outcome or as a result of significant defense costs, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
The Company is involved in other lawsuits and claims which arise in the normal course of business. These claims individually and in the aggregate are not expected to result in a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.


99

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 19.  CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK
The Company maintains cash depository accounts with major financial institutions around the world and invests in high quality, short-term liquid investments. Such investments are made only in investments issued by highly rated institutions. These investments mature within three months and have not historically incurred any losses.

96

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Trade accounts receivable are exposed to a concentration of credit risk with retailers principally located in the United States. The Company's retail customers include home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers, and food and drug stores, and indoor gardening and hydroponic stores. Concentrations of net sales and accounts receivable by segment in the United States as a percentage of consolidated net sales and accounts receivable at September 30 were as follows: 
Percentage of Net Sales Percentage of Gross Accounts Receivable at September 30,Percentage of Net Sales Percentage of Net Accounts Receivable at September 30,
2014 2013 2012 2014 20132015 2014 2013 2015 2014
Global Consumer segment72% 72% 72% 62% 63%73% 72% 72% 63% 62%
Scotts LawnService® segment
9% 9% 9% 9% 9%9% 9% 9% 10% 9%
Total Concentration in United States81% 81% 81% 71% 72%82% 81% 81% 73% 71%

The remainder of the Company’s net sales and accounts receivable at September 30, 20142015, 20132014 and 20122013 were generated from customers located outside of the United States, primarily retailers, distributors and nurseries in Europe, Canada and Australia. No concentrations of these customers or individual customers within this group accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s net sales or accounts receivable for any period presented above.
The Company’s three largest customers are reported within the Global Consumer segment and are the only customers that individually represent more than 10% of reported consolidated net sales and accounts receivable for each of the last three fiscal years. These three customers accounted for the following percentages of Global Consumer segment net sales for the fiscal years ended September 30: 
Percentage of Net SalesPercentage of Net Sales
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Home Depot36% 34% 33%34% 36% 34%
Lowe's19% 18% 18%17% 19% 18%
Walmart13% 13% 13%12% 13% 13%

Accounts receivable for these three largest customers as a percentage of consolidated accounts receivable were 54% and 55% and 56%for September 30, 20142015 and 2013,2014, respectively.

NOTE 20.  OTHER INCOME, NET
Other (income) expense consisted of the following:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Royalty income, net$(5.6) $(4.7) $(4.9)$(5.2) $(5.6) $(4.7)
Franchise fees(0.3) (0.3) (0.3)(0.3) (0.3) (0.3)
Foreign currency losses (gains)1.0
 0.4
 (0.7)
Foreign currency losses1.6
 1.0
 0.4
(Gain) loss on investment of unconsolidated affiliate(5.7) 0.4
 

 (5.7) 0.4
Other(4.1) (5.8) 3.1
(2.2) (4.1) (5.8)
Total$(14.7) $(10.0) $(2.8)$(6.1) $(14.7) $(10.0)


97100

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


NOTE 21.  SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company divides its business into the following segments —two segments: Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®. This division of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by the chief operating decision maker of the Company. The Company has made reclassifications to prior period segment amounts as a result of the change in internal organization structure associated with the disposal of the Company's wild bird food and professional seed businesses, which are reported in discontinued operations. For additional information regarding the sale, refer to “NOTE 2. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS.”
The Global Consumer segment consists of the U.S. Consumermanufactures, markets and International Consumer business groups. The business groups comprising this segment manufacture, market and sellsells dry, granular slow-release lawn fertilizers, combination lawn fertilizer and control products, grass seed, spreaders, water-soluble, liquid and continuous release garden and indoor plant foods, plant care products, potting, garden and lawn soils, mulches and other growing media products, pesticide and rodenticide products. Products are marketed to home centers, mass merchandisers, home centers,warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, warehouse clubs, distributors,independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers, food and grocersdrug stores, and indoor gardening and hydroponic stores in the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and Australia.
The Scotts LawnService® segment provides residential and commercial lawn fertilization, disease and insect control and other related services such as core aeration, tree and shrub fertilization and pest control services through Company-owned branches and independent franchisees in the United States.
Segment performance is evaluated based on several factors, including income from continuing operations before amortization, product registration and recall costs, and impairment, restructuring and other charges, which is not a GAAP measure. Senior management of the Company uses this measure of operating profit to gauge segment performance because the Company believes this measure is the most indicative of performance trends and the overall earnings potential of each segment. Total assets reported for the Company’s operating segments include the intangible assets for the acquired businesses within those segments. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the “NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES.”
Corporate & Other consists of revenues and expenses associated with the Company’s supply agreements with Israel Chemicals, Ltd. (“ICL”) and the amortization related to the Roundup® Marketing Agreement,, as well as corporate, general and administrative expenses and certain other income/expense items not allocated to the business segments. Corporate & Other assets primarily include deferred financing and debt issuance costs and corporate intangible assets, as well as deferred tax assets.


98101

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following tables present summarized financial information concerning the Company’s reportable segments for the periods indicated:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Net sales:          
Global Consumer$2,552.0
 $2,484.7
 $2,483.6
$2,701.0
 $2,552.0
 $2,484.7
Scotts LawnService®
263.0
 257.8
 245.8
288.5
 263.0
 257.8
Segment total2,815.0
 2,742.5
 2,729.4
2,989.5
 2,815.0
 2,742.5
Corporate & Other26.3
 31.2
 41.1
27.0
 26.3
 31.2
Consolidated$2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
$3,016.5
 $2,841.3
 $2,773.7
Income from continuing operations before income taxes:          
Global Consumer$438.8
 $403.7
 $335.9
$466.2
 $438.8
 $403.7
Scotts LawnService®
30.2
 28.7
 27.0
33.3
 30.2
 28.7
Segment total469.0
 432.4
 362.9
499.5
 469.0
 432.4
Corporate & Other(90.4) (91.2) (96.3)(96.6) (90.4) (91.2)
Intangible asset amortization(13.0) (10.4) (10.1)(16.8) (13.0) (10.4)
Product registration and recall matters
 
 (8.2)
Impairment, restructuring and other(51.0) (20.3) (7.1)(91.5) (51.0) (20.3)
Costs related to refinancing(10.7) 
 

 (10.7) 
Interest expense(47.3) (59.2) (61.8)(50.5) (47.3) (59.2)
Consolidated$256.6
 $251.3
 $179.4
$244.1
 $256.6
 $251.3
Depreciation and amortization:          
Global Consumer$48.1
 $48.7
 $44.2
$52.0
 $48.1
 $48.7
Scotts LawnService®
3.9
 4.0
 4.1
5.3
 3.9
 4.0
Corporate & Other12.4
 13.4
 14.1
11.7
 12.4
 13.4
$64.4
 $66.1
 $62.4
$69.0
 $64.4
 $66.1
Capital expenditures:          
Global Consumer$83.3
 $53.3
 $64.6
$54.6
 $83.3
 $53.3
Scotts LawnService®
3.2
 3.1
 1.9
3.7
 3.2
 3.1
Corporate & Other1.1
 3.7
 2.9
3.4
 1.1
 3.7
$87.6
 $60.1
 $69.4
$61.7
 $87.6
 $60.1

September 30,September 30,
2014 20132015 2014
(In millions)(In millions)
Total assets:      
Global Consumer$1,690.7
 $1,564.2
$2,124.7
 $1,690.7
Scotts LawnService®
191.3
 189.8
222.5
 191.3
Corporate & Other176.3
 183.2
180.0
 176.3
$2,058.3
 $1,937.2
$2,527.2
 $2,058.3


99102

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following table presents net sales by product category for the Global Consumer segment:
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
Net sales:          
Lawn care34% 35% 35%31% 34% 35%
Growing media36
 35
 33
38
 36
 35
Controls15
 14
 14
16
 15
 14
Roundup® Marketing Agreement
5
 5
 6
5
 5
 5
Other, primarily gardening and landscape10
 11
 12
10
 10
 11
Segment total product sales100% 100% 100%100% 100% 100%

The following table presents net sales and long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangibles) by geographic area: 
Year Ended September 30,Year Ended September 30,
2014 2013 20122015 2014 2013
(In millions)(In millions)
Net sales:          
United States$2,328.2
 $2,295.5
 $2,290.7
$2,508.5
 $2,328.2
 $2,295.5
International513.1
 478.2
 479.8
508.0
 513.1
 478.2
$2,841.3
 $2,773.7
 $2,770.5
$3,016.5
 $2,841.3
 $2,773.7
Long-lived assets:          
United States$458.8
 $419.9
 $432.0
$558.7
 $458.8
 $419.9
International91.1
 64.5
 70.2
73.8
 91.1
 64.5
$549.9
 $484.4
 $502.2
$632.5
 $549.9
 $484.4

100103

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)



NOTE 22.  QUARTERLY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
The following is a summary of the unaudited quarterly results of operations.operations: 
First
Quarter
 
Second
Quarter
 
Third
Quarter
 
Fourth
Quarter
 Full Year
First
Quarter
 
Second
Quarter
 
Third
Quarter
 
Fourth
Quarter
 Full Year
(In millions, except per share data)(In millions, except per share data)
FISCAL 2015         
Net sales$216.2
 $1,102.3
 $1,214.8
 $483.2
 $3,016.5
Gross profit29.3
 433.3
 449.2
 153.1
 1,064.9
Income (loss) from continuing operations(74.0) 124.3
 133.0
 (24.6) 158.7
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)(74.0) 124.3
 133.0
 (24.6) 158.7
Income (loss) attributable to controlling interest(74.6) 124.6
 133.4
 (23.6) 159.8
Basic income (loss) per Common Share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.23) $2.05
 $2.18
 $(0.38) $2.62
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 
 
 
Basic net income (loss) per Common Share$(1.23) $2.05
 $2.18
 $(0.38) $2.62
Common Shares used in basic EPS calculation60.8
 60.9
 61.3
 61.4
 61.1
Diluted income (loss) per Common Share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.23) $2.01
 $2.14
 $(0.38) $2.57
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 
 
 
Diluted net income (loss) per Common Share$1.23
 $2.01
 $2.14
 $(0.38) $2.57
Common Shares and dilutive potential Common Shares used in diluted EPS calculation60.8
 62.1
 62.3
 61.4
 62.2
FISCAL 2014                  
Net sales$189.6
 $1,081.0
 $1,116.4
 $454.3
 $2,841.3
$189.6
 $1,081.0
 $1,116.4
 $454.3
 $2,841.3
Gross profit33.9
 433.8
 423.3
 140.4
 1,031.4
33.9
 433.8
 423.3
 140.4
 1,031.4
Income (loss) from continuing operations(65.8) 125.7
 120.7
 (15.2) 165.4
(65.8) 125.7
 120.7
 (15.2) 165.4
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax0.1
 
 1.0
 (0.3) 0.8
0.1
 
 1.0
 (0.3) 0.8
Net income (loss)(65.7) 125.7
 121.7
 (15.5) 166.2
(65.7) 125.7
 121.7
 (15.5) 166.2
Income (loss) attributable to controlling interest(65.7) 125.7
 121.7
 (15.2) 166.5
(65.7) 125.7
 121.7
 (15.2) 166.5
Basic income (loss) per common share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.06) $2.03
 $1.97
 $(0.24) $2.69
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 0.02
 
 0.01
Basic net income (loss) per common share$(1.06) $2.03
 $1.99
 $(0.24) $2.70
Common shares used in basic EPS calculation62.1
 61.9
 61.3
 61.0
 61.6
Diluted income (loss) per common share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.06) $2.00
 $1.93
 $(0.24) $2.64
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 0.02
 
 0.01
Diluted net income (loss) per common share$(1.06) $2.00
 $1.95
 $(0.24) $2.65
Common shares and dilutive potential Common Shares used in diluted EPS calculation62.1
 62.9
 62.4
 61.0
 62.7
FISCAL 2013         
Net sales$195.1
 $1,007.9
 $1,137.1
 $433.6
 $2,773.7
Gross profit30.6
 377.2
 440.3
 130.1
 978.2
Income (loss) from continuing operations(68.2) 99.1
 147.7
 (19.2) 159.4
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax0.5
 0.9
 0.5
 (0.2) 1.7
Net income (loss)(67.7) 100.0
 148.2
 (19.4) 161.1
Basic income (loss) per common share:         
Basic income (loss) per Common Share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.11) $1.61
 $2.39
 $(0.31) $2.58
$(1.06) $2.03
 $1.97
 $(0.24) $2.69
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.01
 0.01
 
 0.03

 
 0.02
 
 0.01
Basic net income (loss) per common share$(1.10) $1.62
 $2.40
 $(0.31) $2.61
Common shares used in basic EPS calculation61.4
 61.6
 61.7
 62.0
 61.7
Diluted income (loss) per common share:         
Basic net income (loss) per Common Share$(1.06) $2.03
 $1.99
 $(0.24) $2.70
Common Shares used in basic EPS calculation62.1
 61.9
 61.3
 61.0
 61.6
Diluted income (loss) per Common Share:         
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(1.11) $1.59
 $2.36
 $(0.31) $2.55
$(1.06) $2.00
 $1.93
 $(0.24) $2.64
Income (loss) from discontinued operations0.01
 0.01
 0.01
 
 0.02

 
 0.02
 
 0.01
Diluted net income (loss) per common share$(1.10) $1.60
 $2.37
 $(0.31) $2.57
Common shares and dilutive potential Common Shares used in diluted EPS calculation61.4
 62.4
 62.6
 62.0
 62.6
Diluted net income (loss) per Common Share$(1.06) $2.00
 $1.95
 $(0.24) $2.65
Common Shares and dilutive potential Common Shares used in diluted EPS calculation62.1
 62.9
 62.4
 61.0
 62.7


104

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


Common share equivalents, such as share-based awards, are excluded from the diluted loss per common shareCommon Share calculation in periods where there is a loss from continuing operations because the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. The Company’s business is highly seasonal, with approximately 75% of net sales occurring in the second and third fiscal quarters.
Unusual items during fiscal 2014 consisted of impairment,Impairment, restructuring and other charges. These items arecharges reflected in the quarterly financial information during fiscal 2015 are as follows: first quarter restructuring costs of $9.6 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees; second quarter restructuring costs of $5.1 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees; third quarter restructuring costs of $6.6 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees and the liquidation and exit from the U.K. Solus business, and $37.7 million in costs related to resolving consumer complaints related to the newly reformulated Bonus S® lawn fertilizer product; fourth quarter restructuring costs of $0.9 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees, and $24.7 million in charges related to resolving consumer complaints related to the newly reformulated Bonus S® lawn fertilizer product.
Impairment, restructuring and other charges reflected in the quarterly financial information during fiscal 2014 are as follows: first quarter restructuring costs of $0.3 million related to termination benefits; second

101

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


quarter restructuring costs of $4.1 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees, $2.0 million in additional ongoing monitoring and remediation costs for the Company's turfgrass biotechnology program and $10.7 million in costs related to refinancing; third quarter restructuring costs of $5.5 million related to termination benefits primarily for U.S. employees and impairment charges of $33.7 million related to the Ortho® brand; fourth quarter restructuring costs of $5.4 million related to termination benefits for U.S. and international employees. In March 2014, the Company completed the sale of its U.S. and Canadian wild bird food business, including intangible assets, certain on-hand inventory and fixed assets, for $4.1 million in cash and an estimated $1.0 million in future earn-out payments. In addition, in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company received $3.1 million for the sale of the remaining wild bird food manufacturing facilities resulting in a gain of $1.2 million.
Unusual items during fiscal 2013 consisted of impairment, restructuring and other charges. These items are reflected in the quarterly financial information as follows: first quarter impairment, restructuring and other charges of $(0.4) million; second quarter impairment, restructuring and other charges of $0.1 million in cost of sales and $0.1 million in SG&A; third quarter impairment, restructuring and other charges of $1.5 million in cost of sales and $7.0 million in SG&A; and fourth quarter impairment, restructuring and other charges of $0.6 million in cost of sales and $11.4 million in SG&A.

NOTE 23.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS AND NON-GUARANTORS
The 6.625% Senior Notes (the “Senior Notes”)were issued by Scotts Miracle-Gro on December 16, 2010 and are guaranteed by certain of itsthe Company's domestic subsidiaries and, therefore, the Company has disclosedreports condensed, consolidating financial information in accordance with SEC Regulation S-X Rule 3-10, Financial Statements of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or Being Registered. On January 15, 2014, the CompanyScotts Miracle-Gro redeemed all of its outstanding $200 million aggregate principal amount of the 7.25% Senior Notes which were previously guaranteed by certain of its domestic subsidiaries. The 6.000% Senior Notes were issued subsequent to the end of fiscal 2015 on October 13, 2015 and are guaranteed by certain of the Company's domestic subsidiaries. The guarantees with respect to the 7.25% Senior Notes were, and the guarantees with respect to the 6.625% Senior Notes and the 6.000% Senior Notes are “full and unconditional,” as those terms are used in Regulation S-X Rule 3-10, except that a subsidiary’s guarantee will be automatically released in certain customary circumstances, such as (1) upon any sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the subsidiary (including by way of merger or consolidation) to any person other than Scotts Miracle-Gro or any “restricted subsidiary” under the applicable indenture; (2) if the subsidiary merges with and into Scotts Miracle-Gro, with Scotts Miracle-Gro surviving such merger; (3) if the subsidiary is designated an “unrestricted subsidiary” in accordance with the applicable indenture or otherwise ceases to be a “restricted subsidiary” (including by way of liquidation or dissolution) in a transaction permitted by such indenture; (4) upon legal or covenant defeasance; (5) upon satisfaction and discharge of the 6.625% Senior Notes; or (6) if the subsidiary ceases to be a “wholly owned restricted subsidiary” and the subsidiary is not otherwise required to provide a guarantee of the 6.625% Senior Notes pursuant to the applicable indenture. The Hawthorne Gardening Company and Hawthorne Hydroponics LLC were added as guarantors effective in the three month period ending March 28, 2015 and have been classified as Guarantors for all periods presented. The following 100% directly or indirectly owned subsidiaries fully and unconditionally guarantee at September 30, 20142015 the 6.625% Senior Notes on a joint and several basis: EG Systems, Inc., dba Scotts LawnService®; Gutwein & Co., Inc.; Hyponex Corporation; Miracle-Gro Lawn Products, Inc.; OMS Investments, Inc.; Rod McLellan Company; Sanford Scientific, Inc.; Scotts Temecula Operations, LLC; Scotts Manufacturing Company; Scotts Products Co.; Scotts Professional Products Co.; Scotts-Sierra Investments LLC; SMG Growing Media, Inc.; Swiss Farms Products, Inc.; SMGM LLC; SLS Franchise Systems LLC; and The Scotts Company LLC; The Hawthorne Gardening Company; and Hawthorne Hydroponics LLC (collectively, the “Guarantors”).

105

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)


The following information presents Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations, Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years ended September 30, 2015, 2014, and 2013, and Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets as of September 30, 20142015 and September 30, 2013.2014. The condensed consolidating financial information presents, in separate columns, financial information for: Scotts Miracle-Gro on a Parent-only basis, carrying its investment in subsidiaries under the equity method; Guarantors on a combined basis, carrying their investments in subsidiaries which do not guarantee the debt (collectively, the “Non-Guarantors”) under the equity method; Non-Guarantors on a combined basis; and eliminating entries. The eliminating entries primarily reflect intercompany transactions, such as interest expense, accounts receivable and payable, short and long-term debt, and the elimination of equity investments, return on investments and income in subsidiaries. Because the Parent is obligated to pay the unpaid principal amount and interest on all amounts borrowed by the Guarantors or Non-Guarantors under the new credit facility (and was obligated to pay the unpaid principal amount and interest on all amounts borrowed by the Guarantors and Non-Guarantors under the previous senior secured five-year revolving loan facility), the borrowings and related interest expense for the loans outstanding of the Guarantors and Non-Guarantors are also presented in the accompanying Parent-only financial information, and are then eliminated. Included in the Parent Condensed Consolidating StatementsStatement of Cash Flows for fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014, and fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively are $281.3 million, $422.8 million, and $87.8 million, and $92.9 millionrespectively, of dividends paid by the Guarantors and Non-Guarantors to the Parent. Included in the Guarantors Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal 2014 are $1.3 million of dividends paid by the Non-Guarantors to the Guarantors. The dividends paid to the Parent and Guarantors representrepresenting return on investments and as such are classified within cash flows from operating activities.
In the Condensed, Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 (which were previously presented in our Annual Report on Form 10-K dated November 30, 2013 and are presented herein), the Company reclassified intercompany

102106



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015
(in millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net sales$
 $2,480.6
 $535.9
 $
 $3,016.5
Cost of sales
 1,558.3
 386.7
 
 1,945.0
Cost of sales - impairment, restructuring and other
 3.1
 3.5
 
 6.6
Gross profit
 919.2
 145.7
 
 1,064.9
Operating expenses:         
Selling, general and administrative
 556.4
 140.3
 1.7
 698.4
Impairment, restructuring and other
 71.0
 7.0
 
 78.0
Other income, net
 (7.2) 1.1
 
 (6.1)
Income (loss) from operations
 299.0
 (2.7) (1.7) 294.6
Equity income in subsidiaries(179.2) (6.1) 
 185.3
 
Other non-operating income(27.9) 
 (23.5) 51.4
 
Costs related to refinancing
 
 
 
 
Interest expense55.2
 44.1
 2.6
 (51.4) 50.5
Income from continuing operations before income taxes151.9
 261.0
 18.2
 (187.0) 244.1
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations(9.6) 88.6
 6.4
 
 85.4
Income from continuing operations161.5
 172.4
 11.8
 (187.0) 158.7
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
 
 
 
Net income$161.5
 $172.4
 $11.8
 $(187.0) $158.7
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
 
 
 1.1
 1.1
Net income attributable to controlling interest$161.5
 $172.4
 $11.8
 $(185.9) $159.8


107




dividends received by Parent from Guarantors from “NetTHE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
for the twelve months ended September 30, 2015
(In millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net income$161.5
 $172.4
 $11.8
 $(187.0) $158.7
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:         
Net foreign currency translation adjustment(14.2) 
 (14.2) 14.2
 (14.2)
Net change in derivatives(2.1) (0.8) 
 0.8
 (2.1)
Net change in pension and other post retirement benefits(4.3) (5.4) 1.1
 4.3
 (4.3)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)(20.6) (6.2) (13.1) 19.3
 (20.6)
Comprehensive income$140.9
 $166.2
 $(1.3) $(167.7) $138.1


108




THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash (Used In) Provided By Financing Activities” to “Net Cash (Used In) Provided By Operating Activities.” InFlows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015
(in millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES(a)
$239.4
 $249.3
 $39.5
 $(281.3) $246.9
INVESTING ACTIVITIES         
Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets
 5.5
 
 
 5.5
Investments in property, plant and equipment
 (56.6) (5.1) 
 (61.7)
Investing cash flows from (to) affiliates(141.9) 
 
 141.9
 
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired
 (170.8) (9.4) 
 (180.2)
Investment in marketing and license agreement
 (300.0) 
 
 (300.0)
Net cash used in investing activities(141.9) (521.9) (14.5) 141.9
 (536.4)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES         
Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 1,568.1
 267.9
 
 1,836.0
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 (1,284.1) (173.9) 
 (1,458.0)
Financing and issuance fees(0.4) (0.1) 
 
 (0.5)
Dividends paid(111.3) (255.5) (25.8) 281.3
 (111.3)
Purchase of Common Shares(14.8)��
 
 
 (14.8)
Payments on seller notes
 (1.5) 
 
 (1.5)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements4.7
 
 
 
 4.7
Cash received from exercise of stock options24.3
 
 
 
 24.3
Financing cash flows from (to) affiliates
 230.0
 (88.1) (141.9) 
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities(97.5) 256.9
 (19.9) 139.4
 278.9
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
 (7.3) 
 (7.3)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 (15.7) (2.2) 
 (17.9)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
 23.1
 66.2
 
 89.3
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$
 $7.4
 $64.0
 $
 $71.4

(a)Cash received by the Parent from the Guarantors in the form of dividends in the amount of $255.5 million represent return on investments and are included in cash flows from operating activities. Cash received by the Guarantors from the Non-Guarantors in the form of dividends in the amount of $25.8 million represent return on investments and are included in the cash flows from operating activities.

109




THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Balance Sheet as
As of September 30, 2013 (which was previously presented 2015
(in our Annual Report on Form 10-K dated November 20, 2013 and is presented herein), the Company made a correction to properly reflect the Senior Notes and the credit agreement as Parent debt and the Company made related correcting adjustments to Parent intercompany assets and the elimination entries. The Company believes these changes are immaterial. millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:         
Cash and cash equivalents$
 $7.4
 $64.0
 $
 $71.4
Accounts receivable, net
 96.9
 94.4
 
 191.3
Accounts receivable pledged
 152.9
 
 
 152.9
Inventories
 318.7
 88.9
 
 407.6
Prepaid and other current assets
 90.7
 34.7
 
 125.4
Total current assets
 666.6
 282.0
 
 948.6
Property, plant and equipment, net
 397.6
 56.1
 
 453.7
Goodwill
 408.8
 12.0
 11.6
 432.4
Intangible assets, net
 593.0
 58.8
 11.7
 663.5
Other assets16.3
 15.0
 15.0
 (17.3) 29.0
Equity investment in subsidiaries461.3
 
 
 (461.3) 
Intercompany assets1,179.4
 
 
 (1,179.4) 
Total assets$1,657.0
 $2,081.0
 $423.9
 $(1,634.7) $2,527.2
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:         
Current portion of debt$
 $125.1
 $9.7
 $
 $134.8
Accounts payable
 141.5
 56.4
 
 197.9
Other current liabilities15.5
 191.9
 73.0
 
 280.4
Total current liabilities15.5
 458.5
 139.1
 
 613.1
Long-term debt1,016.3
 728.4
 100.1
 (816.3) 1,028.5
Other liabilities4.5
 228.0
 32.3
 (12.3) 252.5
Equity investment in subsidiaries
 156.2
 
 (156.2) 
Intercompany liabilities
 296.6
 47.5
 (344.1) 
Total liabilities1,036.3
 1,867.7
 319.0
 (1,328.9) 1,894.1
Total shareholders’ equity - controlling interest620.7
 213.3
 104.9
 (318.2) 620.7
Noncontrolling interest
 
 
 12.4
 12.4
Total equity$620.7
 $213.3
 $104.9
 $(305.8) $633.1
Total liabilities and equity$1,657.0
 $2,081.0
 $423.9
 $(1,634.7) $2,527.2


103110



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014
(in millions)
 
Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net sales$
 $2,314.0
 $527.3
 $
 $2,841.3
$
 $2,314.0
 $527.3
 $
 $2,841.3
Cost of sales
 1,440.5
 369.4
 
 1,809.9

 1,440.5
 369.4
 
 1,809.9
Cost of sales - impairment, restructuring and other
 
 
 
 
Gross profit
 873.5
 157.9
 
 1,031.4

 873.5
 157.9
 
 1,031.4
Operating expenses:                  
Selling, general and administrative
 532.8
 147.7
 
 680.5

 535.3
 145.2
 
 680.5
Impairment, restructuring and other
 48.2
 2.8
 
 51.0

 48.2
 2.8
 
 51.0
Other income, net
 (12.6) (2.1) 
 (14.7)
 (12.6) (2.1) 
 (14.7)
Income from operations
 305.1
 9.5
 
 314.6

 302.6
 12.0
 
 314.6
Equity income in subsidiaries(193.2) (8.9) 
 202.1
 
(193.2) (8.9) 
 202.1
 
Other non-operating income(21.3) 
 (22.2) 43.5
 
(21.3) 
 (22.2) 43.5
 
Costs related to refinancing10.7
 
 
 
 10.7
10.7
 
 
 
 10.7
Interest expense52.5
 37.4
 0.9
 (43.5) 47.3
52.5
 37.4
 0.9
 (43.5) 47.3
Income from continuing operations before income taxes151.3
 276.6
 30.8
 (202.1) 256.6
151.3
 274.1
 33.3
 (202.1) 256.6
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations(14.9) 95.2
 10.9
 
 91.2
(14.9) 94.6
 11.5
 
 91.2
Income from continuing operations166.2
 181.4
 19.9
 (202.1) 165.4
166.2
 179.5
 21.8
 (202.1) 165.4
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
 0.4
 0.4
 
 0.8

 0.4
 0.4
 
 0.8
Net income$166.2
 $181.8
 $20.3
 $(202.1) $166.2
$166.2
 $179.9
 $22.2
 $(202.1) $166.2
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest$0.3
 $0.3
 $
 $(0.3) $0.3
0.3
 0.3
 
 (0.3) 0.3
Net income attributable to controlling interest$166.5
 $182.1
 $20.3
 $(202.4) $166.5
$166.5
 $180.2
 $22.2
 $(202.4) $166.5


104111




THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, ConsolidatedConsolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
for the twelve months ended September 30, 2014
(In millions)

Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net income$166.2
 $181.8
 $20.3
 $(202.1) $166.2
Net income (loss)$166.2
 $179.9
 $22.2
 $(202.1) $166.2
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:                  
Net foreign currency translation adjustment(8.2) 
 (8.2) 8.2
 (8.2)(8.2) 
 (8.2) 8.2
 (8.2)
Net change in derivatives4.6
 1.3
 
 (1.3) 4.6
4.6
 1.3
 
 (1.3) 4.6
Net change in pension and other post retirement benefits(4.8) 0.7
 (5.5) 4.8
 (4.8)(4.8) 0.7
 (5.5) 4.8
 (4.8)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)(8.4) 2.0
 (13.7) 11.7
 (8.4)(8.4) 2.0
 (13.7) 11.7
 (8.4)
Comprehensive income$157.8
 $183.8
 $6.6
 $(190.4) $157.8
Comprehensive income (loss)$157.8
 $181.9
 $8.5
 $(190.4) $157.8


105112



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014
(in millions)
 
Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES(a)$388.8
 $254.5
 $21.7
 $(424.1) $240.9
$388.8
 $254.5
 $21.7
 $(424.1) $240.9
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                  
Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets
 3.7
 
 
 3.7

 3.7
 
 
 3.7
Proceeds from sale of business
 6.6
 0.6
 
 7.2
Proceeds from sale of business, net of transaction costs
 6.6
 0.6
 
 7.2
Investments in property, plant and equipment
 (81.0) (6.6) 
 (87.6)
 (81.0) (6.6) 
 (87.6)
Proceeds from sale and leaseback transaction
 35.1
 
 
 35.1

 35.1
 
 
 35.1
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired
 (58.9) (55.1) 
 (114.0)
 (58.9) (55.1) 
 (114.0)
Net cash used in investing activities
 (94.5) (61.1) 
 (155.6)
 (94.5) (61.1) 
 (155.6)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                  
Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 1,596.1
 336.7
 
 1,932.8

 1,596.1
 336.7
 
 1,932.8
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 (1,184.7) (340.6) 
 (1,525.3)
 (1,184.7) (340.6) 
 (1,525.3)
Repayment of 7.25% senior notes(200.0) 
 
 
 (200.0)(200.0) 
 
 
 (200.0)
Financing and issuance fees(6.1) 
 
 
 (6.1)(6.1) 
 
 
 (6.1)
Dividends paid(230.8) (404.9) (19.2) 424.1
 (230.8)(230.8) (404.9) (19.2) 424.1
 (230.8)
Purchase of common shares(120.0) 
 
 
 (120.0)
Purchase of Common Shares(120.0) 
 
 
 (120.0)
Payments on seller notes
 (0.8) 
 
 (0.8)
 (0.8) 
 
 (0.8)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
 5.9
 
 
 5.9

 5.9
 
 
 5.9
Cash received from exercise of stock options20.0
 
 
 
 20.0
20.0
 
 
 
 20.0
Intercompany financing148.1
 (151.1) 3.0
 
 
148.1
 (151.1) 3.0
 
 
Net cash used in financing activities(388.8) (139.5) (20.1) 424.1
 (124.3)(388.8) (139.5) (20.1) 424.1
 (124.3)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
 (1.5) 
 (1.5)
 
 (1.5) 
 (1.5)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 20.5
 (61.0) 
 (40.5)
 20.5
 (61.0) 
 (40.5)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
 2.6
 127.2
 
 129.8

 2.6
 127.2
 
 129.8
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$
 $23.1
 $66.2
 $
 $89.3
$
 $23.1
 $66.2
 $
 $89.3

(a)Cash received by the Parent from its subsidiaries in the form of dividends in the amount of $422.8 million represent return on investments and are included in cash flows from operating activities. Cash received by the Guarantors from the Non-Guarantors in the form of dividends in the amount of $1.3 million represent return on investments and are included in the cash flows from operating activities.

106113



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2014
(in millions)
 
Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:                  
Cash and cash equivalents$
 $23.1
 $66.2
 $
 $89.3
$
 $23.1
 $66.2
 $
 $89.3
Accounts receivable, net
 124.6
 99.4
 
 224.0

 124.6
 99.4
 
 224.0
Accounts receivable pledged
 113.7
 
 
 113.7
Accounts Receivable, pledged
 113.7
 
 
 113.7
Inventories
 282.1
 103.0
 
 385.1

 282.1
 103.0
 
 385.1
Prepaid and other current assets
 85.0
 37.9
 
 122.9

 85.2
 37.7
 
 122.9
Total current assets
 628.5
 306.5
 
 935.0

 628.7
 306.3
 
 935.0
Property, plant and equipment, net
 369.5
 67.5
 
 437.0

 371.3
 65.7
 
 437.0
Goodwill
 344.3
 6.6
 
 350.9

 344.3
 6.6
 
 350.9
Intangible assets, net
 256.8
 45.9
 
 302.7

 256.8
 45.9
 
 302.7
Other assets23.8
 14.7
 28.5
 (34.3) 32.7
23.8
 14.7
 28.5
 (34.3) 32.7
Equity investment in subsidiaries368.3
 
 
 (368.3) 
368.3
 
 
 (368.3) 
Intercompany assets878.8
 
 
 (878.8) 
878.8
 
 
 (878.8) 
Total assets$1,270.9
 $1,613.8
 $455.0
 $(1,281.4) $2,058.3
$1,270.9
 $1,615.8
 $453.0
 $(1,281.4) $2,058.3
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:                  
Current portion of debt$
 $85.8
 $6.1
 $
 $91.9
$
 $85.8
 $6.1
 $
 $91.9
Accounts payable
 134.3
 59.0
 
 193.3

 134.4
 58.9
 
 193.3
Other current liabilities16.7
 161.8
 81.0
 
 259.5
16.7
 161.9
 80.9
 
 259.5
Total current liabilities16.7
 381.9
 146.1
 
 544.7
16.7
 382.1
 145.9
 
 544.7
Long-term debt681.8
 480.0
 12.4
 (481.8) 692.4
681.8
 480.0
 12.4
 (481.8) 692.4
Other liabilities5.1
 235.7
 47.4
 (34.2) 254.0
5.1
 235.7
 47.4
 (34.2) 254.0
Equity investment in subsidiaries
 106.5
 
 (106.5) 

 106.5
 
 (106.5) 
Intercompany liabilities
 303.5
 93.5
 (397.0) 

 305.2
 91.8
 (397.0) 
Total liabilities703.6
 1,507.6
 299.4
 (1,019.5) 1,491.1
703.6
 1,509.5
 297.5
 (1,019.5) 1,491.1
Total shareholders’ equity - controlling interest553.8
 92.7
 155.6
 (248.4) 553.7
553.8
 92.8
 155.5
 (248.4) 553.7
Noncontrolling interest13.5
 13.5
 
 (13.5) 13.5
$13.5
 $13.5
 $
 $(13.5) $13.5
Total equity$567.3
 $106.2
 $155.6
 $(261.9) $567.2
567.3
 106.3
 155.5
 (261.9) 567.2
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity$1,270.9
 $1,613.8
 $455.0
 $(1,281.4) $2,058.3
Total liabilities and equity$1,270.9
 $1,615.8
 $453.0
 $(1,281.4) $2,058.3


107114



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013
(in millions)
 
Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net sales$
 $2,280.4
 $493.3
 $
 $2,773.7
$
 $2,280.4
 $493.3
 $
 $2,773.7
Cost of sales
 1,446.7
 346.6
 
 1,793.3

 1,446.7
 346.6
 
 1,793.3
Cost of sales - impairment, restructuring and other
 
 2.2
 
 2.2
Cost of sales — impairment, restructuring and other
 
 2.2
 

 2.2
Gross profit
 833.7
 144.5
 
 978.2

 833.7
 144.5
 
 978.2
Operating expenses:                  
Selling, general and administrative
 515.3
 144.3
 
 659.6

 515.3
 144.3
 
 659.6
Impairment, restructuring and other
 11.2
 6.9
 
 18.1

 11.2
 6.9
 
 18.1
Other income, net
 (6.9) (3.1) 
 (10.0)
 (6.9) (3.1) 
 (10.0)
Income (loss) from operations
 314.1
 (3.6) 
 310.5
Income from operations
 314.1
 (3.6) 
 310.5
Equity income in subsidiaries(180.9) 1.3
 
 179.6
 
(180.9) 1.3
 
 179.6
 
Other non-operating income(20.4) 
 
 20.4
 
(20.4) 
 
 20.4
 
Interest expense52.4
 25.2
 2.0
 (20.4) 59.2
52.4
 25.2
 2.0
 (20.4) 59.2
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes148.9
 287.6
 (5.6) (179.6) 251.3
148.9
 287.6
 (5.6) (179.6) 251.3
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations(12.2) 105.8
 (1.7) 
 91.9
(12.2) 105.8
 (1.7) 
 91.9
Income (loss) from continuing operations161.1
 181.8
 (3.9) (179.6) 159.4
161.1
 181.8
 (3.9) (179.6) 159.4
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
 0.8
 0.9
 
 1.7
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 0.8
 0.9
 
 1.7
Net income (loss)$161.1
 $182.6
 $(3.0) $(179.6) $161.1
$161.1
 $182.6
 $(3.0) $(179.6) $161.1


108115



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, ConsolidatedConsolidating Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
for the twelve months ended September 30, 2013
(In millions)

 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net income (loss)$161.1
 $182.6
 $(3.0) $(179.6) $161.1
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:         
Net foreign currency translation adjustment
 
 (5.2) 
 (5.2)
Net change in derivatives7.2
 (2.1) 
 
 5.1
Net change in pension and other post retirement benefits
 10.6
 (1.0) 
 9.6
Total other comprehensive income (loss)7.2
 8.5
 (6.2) 
 9.5
Comprehensive income (loss)$168.3
 $191.1
 $(9.2) $(179.6) $170.6


109116



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013
(in millions)
 
Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations ConsolidatedParent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES$69.8
 $245.9
 $114.1
 $(87.8) $342.0
$69.8
 $245.9
 $114.1
 $(87.8) $342.0
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                  
Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets
 0.2
 3.4
 
 3.6

 0.2
 3.4
 
 3.6
Investments in property, plant and equipment
 (44.6) (15.5) 
 (60.1)
 (44.6) (15.5) 
 (60.1)
Investment in unconsolidated affiliate
 (4.5) 
 
 (4.5)
 (4.5) 
 
 (4.5)
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired
 (3.2) 
 
 (3.2)
Investment in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired
 (3.2) 
 
 (3.2)
Net cash used in investing activities
 (52.1) (12.1) 
 (64.2)
 (52.1) (12.1) 
 (64.2)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                  
Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 1,130.4
 344.4
 
 1,474.8

 1,130.4
 344.4
 
 1,474.8
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 (1,078.5) (603.6) 
 (1,682.1)
 (1,078.5) (603.6) 
 (1,682.1)
Dividends paid(87.8) (87.8) 
 87.8
 (87.8)(87.8) (87.8) 
 87.8
 (87.8)
Payments on seller notes
 (0.8) 
 
 (0.8)
 (0.8) 
 
 (0.8)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
 2.0
 
 
 2.0

 2.0
 
 
 2.0
Cash received from exercise of stock options13.3
 
 
 
 13.3
13.3
 
 
 
 13.3
Intercompany financing4.7
 (159.1) 154.4
 
 
4.7
 (159.1) 154.4
 
 
Net cash used in financing activities(69.8) (193.8) (104.8) 87.8
 (280.6)(69.8) (193.8) (104.8) 87.8
 (280.6)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
 0.7
 
 0.7

 
 0.7
 
 0.7
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 
 (2.1) 
 (2.1)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
 (2.1) 
 (2.1)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
 2.6
 129.3
 
 131.9

 2.6
 129.3
 
 131.9
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$
 $2.6
 $127.2
 $
 $129.8
$
 $2.6
 $127.2
 $
 $129.8


110117



THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2013
(in millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
ASSETS
Current assets:         
Cash and cash equivalents$
 $2.6
 $127.2
 $
 $129.8
Accounts receivable, net
 119.7
 86.9
 
 206.6
Accounts Receivable, pledged
 106.7
 
 
 106.7
Inventories
 247.2
 77.7
 
 324.9
Prepaid and other current assets
 76.4
 36.6
 
 113.0
Total current assets
 552.6
 328.4
 
 881.0
Property, plant and equipment, net
 377.9
 44.4
 
 422.3
Goodwill
 314.4
 0.7
 
 315.1
Intangible assets, net
 244.8
 39.6
 
 284.4
Other assets22.4
 19.5
 26.5
 (34.0) 34.4
Equity investment in subsidiaries317.1
 
 
 (317.1) 
Intercompany assets871.7
 
 
 (871.7) 
Total assets$1,211.2
 $1,509.2
 $439.6
 $(1,222.8) $1,937.2
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:         
Current portion of debt$
 $87.3
 $5.1
 $
 $92.4
Accounts payable
 83.9
 53.8
 
 137.7
Other current liabilities16.0
 183.4
 80.3
 
 279.7
Total current liabilities16.0
 354.6
 139.2
 
 509.8
Long-term debt473.0
 67.9
 10.2
 (73.0) 478.1
Other liabilities11.7
 213.3
 47.8
 (34.0) 238.8
Equity investment in subsidiaries
 173.3
 
 (173.3) 
Intercompany liabilities
 652.1
 146.6
 (798.7) 
Total liabilities500.7
 1,461.2
 343.8
 (1,079.0) 1,226.7
Total shareholders’ equity710.5
 48.0
 95.8
 (143.8) 710.5
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity$1,211.2
 $1,509.2
 $439.6
 $(1,222.8) $1,937.2


111


THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of OperationsSchedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 20122015
(in millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net sales$
 $2,270.7
 $499.8
 $
 $2,770.5
Cost of sales
 1,464.8
 348.7
 
 1,813.5
Cost of sales — product registration and recall matters
 0.4
 
 
 0.4
Gross profit
 805.5
 151.1
 
 956.6
Operating expenses:         
Selling, general and administrative
 550.8
 152.5
 
 703.3
Impairment, restructuring and other
 7.9
 (0.8) 
 7.1
Product registration and recall matters
 7.8
 
 
 7.8
Other income, net
 (1.1) (1.7) 
 (2.8)
Income from operations
 240.1
 1.1
 
 241.2
Equity income in subsidiaries(126.4) 1.6
 
 124.8
 
Other non-operating income(24.5) 
 
 24.5
 
Interest expense56.5
 25.4
 4.4
 (24.5) 61.8
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes94.4
 213.1
 (3.3) (124.8) 179.4
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations(12.1) 80.9
 (1.0) 
 67.8
Income (loss) from continuing operations106.5
 132.2
 (2.3) (124.8) 111.6
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 (5.8) 0.7
 
 (5.1)
Net income (loss)$106.5
 $126.4
 $(1.6) $(124.8) $106.5


112


THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the twelve months endedSeptember 30, 2012
(In millions)
Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Column F
Classification 
Balance
at
Beginning
of Period
 
Reserves
Acquired
 
Additions
Charged
to
Expense
 
Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs
 
Balance
at End of
Period
  (In millions)
Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets to which they apply:          
Allowance for doubtful accounts $7.5
 $
 $6.6
 $(5.4) $8.7
Income tax valuation allowance 48.3
 
 1.5
 (4.0) 45.8

 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
Net income (loss)$106.5
 $126.4
 $(1.6) $(124.8) $106.5
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:         
Net foreign currency translation adjustment
 
 2.3
 
 2.3
Net change in derivatives0.1
 (1.0) 
 
 (0.9)
Net change in pension and other post retirement benefits
 (1.2) (9.5) 
 (10.7)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)0.1
 (2.2) (7.2) 
 (9.3)
Comprehensive income (loss)$106.6
 $124.2
 $(8.8) $(124.8) $97.2


113


THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012
(in millions)
 Parent 
Subsidiary
Guarantors
 
Non-
Guarantors
 Eliminations Consolidated
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES$72.9
 $163.6
 $9.8
 $(92.9) $153.4
INVESTING ACTIVITIES         
Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets
 0.7
 
 
 0.7
Investments in property, plant and equipment
 (61.2) (8.2) 
 (69.4)
Investment in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired
 (6.7) (0.3) 
 (7.0)
Net cash used in investing activities
 (67.2) (8.5) 
 (75.7)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES         
Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 853.4
 830.6
 
 1,684.0
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans
 (1,016.2) (678.4) 
 (1,694.6)
Dividends paid(75.4) (92.9) 
 92.9
 (75.4)
Purchase of Common Shares(17.5) 
 
 
 (17.5)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
 6.6
 
 
 6.6
Cash received from exercise of stock options17.6
 
 
 
 17.6
Intercompany financing2.4
 151.0
 (153.4) 
 
Net cash used in financing activities(72.9) (98.1) (1.2) 92.9
 (79.3)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
 2.6
 
 2.6
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
 (1.7) 2.7
 
 1.0
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
 4.3
 126.6
 
 130.9
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$
 $2.6
 $129.3
 $
 $131.9


114


Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014
Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Column F
Classification 
Balance
at
Beginning
of Period
 
Reserves
Acquired
 
Additions
Charged
to
Expense
 
Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs
 
Balance
at End of
Period
  (In millions)
Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets to which they apply:          
Allowance for doubtful accounts $9.5
 $
 $6.6
 $(8.6) $7.5
Income tax valuation allowance 51.5
 
 (1.5) (1.7) 48.3


Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013
Column AColumn B Column C Column D Column E Column F
Classification
Balance
at
Beginning
of Period
 
Reserves
Acquired
 
Additions
Charged
to
Expense
 
Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs
 
Balance
at End of
Period
 (In millions)
Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets to which they apply:         
Allowance for doubtful accounts$10.5
 $
 $5.5
 $(6.5) $9.5
Income tax valuation allowance48.4
 
 (4.0) 7.1
 51.5


Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012
Column AColumn B Column C Column D Column E Column F Column B Column C Column D Column E Column F
Classification
Balance
at
Beginning
of Period
 
Reserves
Acquired
 
Additions
Charged
to
Expense
 
Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs
 
Balance
at End of
Period
 
Balance
at
Beginning
of Period
 
Reserves
Acquired
 
Additions
Charged
to
Expense
 
Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs
 
Balance
at End of
Period
(In millions) (In millions)
Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets to which they apply:                   
Allowance for doubtful accounts$12.9
 $
 $19.1
 $(21.5) $10.5
 $10.5
 $
 $5.5
 $(6.5) $9.5
Income tax valuation allowance44.3
 
 (0.6) 4.7
 48.4
 48.4
 
 (4.0) 7.1
 51.5


115118



The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Index to Exhibits
 

Exhibit
No.
 Description  Location
3.1(a) Initial Articles of Incorporation of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on November 22, 2004  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (the “Registrant”) filed March 24, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 3.1]
     
3.1(b) Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders to Articles of Incorporation of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on March 18, 2005  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 24, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 3.2]
     
3.2 Code of Regulations of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 24, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 3.3]
     
4.1(a)Indenture, dated as of January 14, 2010, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 14, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]
4.1(b)First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 14, 2010, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 14, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.2]
4.1(c)Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 28, 2011, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1(c)]
4.1(d)Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2013, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]
4.1(e)Form of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 14, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Included in Exhibit 4.2]
4.2(a) Indenture, dated as of December 16, 2010, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]
     
4.2(b)4.1(b) First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 28, 2011, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 23, 2011 [Exhibit 4.2(b)]
     
4.2(c)4.1(c) Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 30, 2013, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 6, 2014 [Exhibit 4.2]
     
4.2(d)4.1(d) Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 25, 2014, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593)filed May 8, 2014 [Exhibit 4.1]
     
4.2(e)4.1(e)Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated March 27, 2015, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 4]
4.1(f)Fifth Supplemental Indenture, dated October 26, 2015, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee*
4.1(g) Form of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Included in Exhibit 4.1][Exhibit 4.2]
     

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4.2(f)4.2(a) Registration Rights Agreement,Indenture, dated as of December 16, 2010,October 13, 2015, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trusteeIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 14, 2015 [Exhibit 4.1]
4.2(b)Form of 6.000% Senior Notes due 2023Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 14, 2015 [Exhibit 4.2]
4.2(c)Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of October 13, 2015, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as representative of the several initial purchasers named therein Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 (File No. 1-11593)October 14, 2015 [Exhibit 4.3]
     

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4.3 Agreement to furnish copies of instruments and agreements defining rights of holders of long-term debt  *
     
10.1(a) Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 19, 1995, among Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc., Stern’s Nurseries, Inc., Miracle-Gro Lawn Products Inc., Miracle-Gro Products Limited, Hagedorn Partnership, L.P., the general partners of Hagedorn Partnership, L.P., Horace Hagedorn, Community Funds, Inc., and John Kenlon, The Scotts Company and ZYX Corporation  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K of The Scotts Company, a Delaware corporation, filed June 2, 1995 (File No. 0-19768) [Exhibit 2(b)]
     
10.1(b) First Amendment to Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, made and entered into as of October 1, 1999, among The Scotts Company, Scotts’ Miracle-Gro Products, Inc. (as successor to ZYX Corporation and Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc.), Miracle-Gro Lawn Products Inc., Miracle-Gro Products Limited, Hagedorn Partnership, L.P., Community Funds, Inc., Horace Hagedorn and John Kenlon, and James Hagedorn, Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield, Paul Hagedorn, Peter Hagedorn, Robert Hagedorn and Susan Hagedorn  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K of The Scotts Company, an Ohio corporation, filed October 5, 1999 (File No. 1-13292) [Exhibit 2]
     
10.210.2(a) Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2013, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company as the “Borrower”; the Subsidiary Borrowers (as defined in the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement); JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent; Bank of America, N.A., as Syndication Agent; CoBank, ACB, BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Coöperatieve Centrale Raiffeisen-Boerenleenbank B.A., “Rabobank Nederland,” New York Branch, Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Documentation Agents; and the several other banks and other financial institutions from time to time parties to the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (collectively, the “Lenders”) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 26, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]
     
10.310.2(b)Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2015, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, as a Borrower; the Subsidiary Borrowers (as defined therein); JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent; Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Co- Syndication Agents; CoBank, ACB, Mizuho Bank, LTD., Coöperatieve Centrale Raiffeisen-Boerenleenbank B.A. “Rabobank Nederland”, New York Branch, TD Bank N.A. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Co-Documentation Agents; and the several other banks and other financial institutions from time to time parties theretoIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 3, 2015 [Exhibit 10.1]
10.3(a) Third Amended and Restated Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of December 20, 2013, made by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, each domestic Subsidiary Borrower under the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, and certain of its and their domestic subsidiaries, in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 26, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.2]

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10.3(b)Fourth Amended and Restated Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated as of October 29, 2015, made by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, each domestic Subsidiary Borrower under the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, and certain of its and their domestic subsidiaries, in favor of JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative AgentIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 3, 2015 [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.4(a)† The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan (effective as of October 30, 2007)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 29, 2007 [Exhibit 10(d)(4)]
     
10.4(b)† Specimen form of Stock Option Agreement for Non-Qualified Stock Options granted to employees under The Scotts Company 1996 Stock Option Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report on Form 8-K of The Scotts Company, an Ohio corporation, filed November 19, 2004 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.7]
     

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10.5(a)† The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2003 Stock Option and Incentive Equity Plan (effective as of October 30, 2007)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 29, 2007 [Exhibit 10(j)(3)]
     
10.5(b)† Specimen form of Award Agreement for Directors used to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2003 Stock Option and Incentive Equity Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2003 Stock Option and Incentive Equity Plan) [post-2003 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005 (File No. 1-11593)filed December 15, 2005 [Exhibit 10(v)]
     
10.6(a)† The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan (reflects amendment and restatement of plan formerly known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan) [effective as of January 17, 2013]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 24, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.6(b)† Specimen form of Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors used to evidence grants of Time-Based Nonqualified Stock Options made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 2, 2006 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.3]
     
10.6(c)(i)† Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 23, 2009 through January 19, 2012 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 28, 2009 (File No. 1-11593)filed May 6, 2009 [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.6(c)(ii)† Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013 version]
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.4]

10.6(c)(iii)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grant of Deferred Stock Units made on January 20, 2012 to Adam Hanft under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) 
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 8, 2012 [Exhibit 10.5]

     
10.6(c)(iv)(iii) Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Companythe Long-Term Incentive Plan [January 18, 2013 through January 30, 2014 version] 
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593)March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.3]

     

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10.6(c)(v)
10.6(d) Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors Retainer Deferrals (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan [post-January 30, 2014 version]Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.8]

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10.6(c)(vi)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made on May 1, 2014 under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.11]
10.6(d)(i)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 22, 2010 through January 20, 2011 version]Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 2, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
10.6(d)(ii)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 21, 2011 through January 19, 2012 version]Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 1, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.4]
10.6(d)(iii)†

Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013 version]
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593)March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.6]

10.6(d)(iv)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan [Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 18, 2013 through January 30, 2014 verison]
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]

10.6(d)(v)†Specimen form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan [Deferral of Cash Retainer — post-January 30, 2014 version]Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.9]10.4]
     
10.6(e)†  Specimen form of Award Agreement used to evidence grants of Restricted Stock Units, Performance Shares, Nonqualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, Restricted Stock and Stock Appreciation Rights made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [pre-October 30, 2007 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 9, 2006 [Exhibit 10(b)]
     

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10.6(f)(i)†

Specimen form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Restricted Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013 version]
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]

10.6(f)(ii)†Specimen form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Restricted Stock Units which may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan [post-January 17, 2013 version]Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.5]
10.6(f)(iii)(i) Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grant of Restricted Stock Units made on April 1, 2013 to Lawrence A. Hilsheimer under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593)filed May 8, 2014 [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.6(f)(iv)(ii) Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grant of Restricted Stock Units made on December 11, 2013 to James Hagedorn under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 6, 2014 [Exhibit 10.10]
     
10.6(f)(v)(iii)†Specimen form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Third Party Service-Providers (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants which may be made under the Long-Term Incentive PlanIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.5]
10.6(f)(iv) Specimen form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Restricted Stock Unitswhich may be made on January 31, 2014 to Barry W. Sanders and Denise S. Stump under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Companythe Long-Term Incentive Plan Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.11]
10.6(g)(i)†

Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Performance Units made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013 version]
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593)March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.1]

10.8]
     
10.6(g)(ii) Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Performance Units which may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Companythe Long-Term Incentive Plan [post-January 17, 2013 version] 
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593)March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.6]

10.6(g)(iii)†Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement for Employees (with Related Dividend Equivalents) used to evidence grants of Performance Units made on January 18, 2013 to James Hagedorn under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive PlanIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 30, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.8]
     
10.6(h)(i)†  Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [October 30, 2007 through October 8, 2008 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 29, 2007 [Exhibit 10(t)(3)]
     

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10.6(h)(ii)†  Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 20, 2010 through January 19, 2012 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 2, 2010 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 11, 2010 [Exhibit 10.4]
     
10.6(h)(iii)†

 Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) [January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013 version] 
Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593)filed February 8, 2012 [Exhibit 10.3]

     

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10.6(h)(iv)† Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options which may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Companythe Long-Term Incentive Plan [post-January 17, 2013 version] Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593)March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.7]
     
10.7(a)† The Scotts Company LLC Amended and Restated Executive Incentive Plan (effective as of January 30, 2014) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed February 5, 2014 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.7(b)(i)†  Specimen form of Employee Confidentiality, Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation Agreement for employees participating in The Scotts Company Executive/Management Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Company LLC Amended and Restated Executive Incentive Plan) [2005 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2008 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 25, 2008 [Exhibit 10.2(b)(i)]
     
10.7(b)(ii)†  Specimen form of Employee Confidentiality, Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation Agreement for employees participating in The Scotts Company LLC Executive/Management Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Company LLC Amended and Restated Executive Incentive Plan) [post-2005 version]  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 1, 2006 (File No. 1-11593)filed August 10, 2006 [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.7(b)(iii)† Employee Confidentiality, Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation Agreement, dated as of December 12, 2013, by and between The Scotts Company LLC, all companies controlled by, controlling or under common control with The Scotts Company LLC, and James Hagedorn Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 17, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.7(c)† Form of Retention Award Agreement evidencing the payment of a cash bonus on April 12, 2013 and the grant of Restricted Stock Units on May 8, 2013 under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) to Thomas Coleman (executed by The Scotts Company LLC on May 14, 2013 and by Thomas Coleman on May 16, 2013) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593)filed May 8, 2014 [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.7(d)†  Executive Officers of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company who are parties to form of Employee Confidentiality, Noncompetition, Nonsolicitation Agreement for employees participating in The Scotts Company LLC Amended and Restated Executive Incentive Plan incorporated in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as Exhibit 10.7(b)(ii)  *
     
10.8(a)(i)†10.8† The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, As Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (executed December 22, 2010)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 1, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.3]

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10.8(a)(ii)†First Amendment to The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2011)2015 (executed December 31, 2014) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.8]
10.8(a)(iii)†Second Amendment to The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2012)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.9]
10.8(a)(iv)†Third Amendment to The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2013)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.10]
10.8(a)(v)†Fourth Amendment to The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2014)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended December 28, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.5]
10.8(b)†Form of Executive Retirement Plan Retention Award Agreement between The Scotts Company LLC and each of Barry W. Sanders, Denise S. Stump and Michael C. Lukemire (entered into on November 4, 2008)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K27, 2014 filed October 15, 2008 (File No. 1-11593)February 5, 2015 [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.9†  Summary of Compensation for Nonemployee Directors of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (effective as of May 1, 2014)  *Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014 filed November 25, 2014 [Exhibit 10.9]
     
10.10(a)†  Executive Severance Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013, by and between The Scotts Company LLC and James Hagedorn  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 17, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.10(b)Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 7, 2014, between The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and Dr. Michael PorterIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.8]
10.10(c) Separation Agreement and Release of All Claims, by and between The Scotts Company LLC (executed on January 21, 2014) and James R. Lyski (executed on January 22, 2014) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 23, 2014 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     

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10.10(d)
10.10(c) Consulting Agreement, dated as of February 7, 2014, between The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and Adam HanftDr. Michael Porter [expired on August 1,December 31, 2014] Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 29, 2014 (File No. 1-11593)filed May 8, 2014 [Exhibit 10.9]10.8]
     
10.10(e)10.10(d) Separation Agreement and Release of All Claims, entered into by and between The Scotts Company LLC (executed on April 15, 2014) and Lawrence A. Hilsheimer (executed on April 17, 2014) Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 17, 2014 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
10.10(e)†Separation Agreement and Release of All Claims, entered into as of December 18, 2014, by and between The Scotts Company LLC and Barry W. SandersIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 19, 2014 [Exhibit 10.1]
10.10(f)†Consulting Agreement, dated March 6, 2015, between The Scotts Company LLC and Hanft Projects LLCIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 28, 2015 filed May 7, 2015 [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.11(a)†  The Scotts Company LLC Executive Severance Plan, adopted on May 4, 2011  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 10, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.11(b)†  Form of Tier 1 Participation Agreement under The Scotts Company LLC Executive Severance Plan  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 10, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]
     
10.11(c)†  Executive Officers of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company who are parties to form of Tier 1 Participation Agreement under The Scotts Company LLC Executive Severance Plan incorporated in this Annual Report on Form 10-K as Exhibit 10.11(b)  *
     

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10.12(a)  Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement, effective as of September 30, 1998, and amended and restated as of November 11, 1998, by and between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLC (as successor to The Scotts Company, an Ohio corporation)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005 (File No. 1-11593)filed December 15, 2005 [Exhibit 10(x)]
     
10.12(b)  Letter Agreement, dated March 10, 2005, amending the Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement, dated as of September 30, 1998, between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLC (as successor to The Scotts Company, an Ohio corporation)  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2009 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 24, 2009 [Exhibit 10.17(b)]
     
10.12(c)  Letter Agreement, dated March 28, 2008, amending the Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement, dated as of September 30, 1998, between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLC  Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2008 (File No. 1-11593)filed November 25, 2008 [Exhibit 10.18(b)]
10.12(d)Amendment to Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2015, between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLCIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed May 20, 2015 [Exhibit 10.2]
10.12(e)Lawn and Garden Brand Extension Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2015, between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLCIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed May 20, 2015 [Exhibit 10.3]
10.12(f)Commercialization and Technology Agreement, dated as of May 15, 2015, between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company LLCIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed May 20, 2015 [Exhibit 10.4]
     
10.13 Purchase Agreement, dated December 13, 2010, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as representative of the several initial purchasers named therein Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     

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10.14Share and Business Sale Agreement, dated February 23, 2011, by and among The Scotts Company LLC, as Seller, each of the Share Sellers and Business Sellers (as defined therein), Israel Chemicals Ltd., as Purchaser, each of the Share Purchasers and Business Purchasers (as defined therein) and The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, as Seller GuarantorIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 1, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
10.15(a)10.14(a) Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2012, by and among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts Company LLC, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Suntrust Bank, RB Receivables LLC and Mizuho Corporate Bank, Ltd., as Administrative Agent and as a Bank Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.16]
     
10.15(b)10.14(b) First Amendment, dated as of October 25, 2013, to the Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2012, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts Company LLC, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Suntrust Bank, RB Receivables LLC and Mizuho Bank, Ltd., as Administrative Agent and as a Bank Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 31, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]
     
10.15(c)10.14(c) Second Amendment, dated as of August 29, 2014, to the Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2012, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts Company LLC, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Suntrust Bank, RB Receivables LLC and Mizuho Corporate Bank, Ltd., as Administrative Agent and as a Bank Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 4, 2014 (File No. 1-11593)[Exhibit 10.1]
10.15Amended and Restated Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2015, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts Company LLC, the Banks party thereto and Mizuho Bank, Ltd., as Administrative AgentIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 30, 2015 [Exhibit 10.1]
10.16Purchase Agreement, dated October 7, 2015, among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as representative of the several initial purchasers named thereinIncorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 14, 2015 [Exhibit 10.1]
     
12  Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges  *
14The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Code of Business Conduct & Ethics (as revised effective January 18, 2012)Incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 24, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 14.1]
     
21  Subsidiaries of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company  *
     
23  Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Deloitte & Touche LLP  *
     
24  Powers of Attorney of Executive Officers and Directors of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company  *
     

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31.1  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications (Principal Executive Officer)  *
     
31.2  Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications (Principal Financial Officer)  *
     
32  Section 1350 Certifications (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer)  *
     
101.INS  XBRL Instance Document  *
     
101.SCH  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema  *
     
101.CAL  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase  *
     
101.DEF  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase  *
     
101.LAB  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase  *
     
101.PRE  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase  *


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*Filed or furnished herewith.
 
Management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.


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