UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q


x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period endedSeptemberMarch 30, 20072008


Commission file number   1-7349

BALL CORPORATION

 State of Indiana35-0160610 

10 Longs Peak Drive, P.O. Box 5000
Broomfield, CO 80021-2510
303/469-3131


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 x No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Large accelerated filer x
Accelerated filer o
Large accelerated filer x   Accelerated filer o                                            Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company o


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes o No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 Class Outstanding at October 28, 2007April 27, 2008 
 
Common Stock,
without par value
 
 
100,498,66697,778,085 shares
 




Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
For the period ended SeptemberMarch 30, 20072008




INDEX


  Page Number
PART I.FINANCIAL INFORMATION: 
   
Item 1.Financial Statements 
   
 Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Three Months Ended March 30, 2008, and Nine Months Ended September 30,April 1, 2007 and October 1, 2006
1
   
 Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and December 31, 20062007
2
   
 Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the NineThree Months Ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and OctoberApril 1, 20062007
3
   
 Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements4
   
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
21
18
   
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk2723
   
Item 4.Controls and Procedures2926
   
PART II.OTHER INFORMATION3128




PART I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
 
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
 September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
  September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
 
             
Net sales $
1,992.1
  $
1,822.3
  $
5,719.1
  $
5,029.7
 
Legal settlement (Note 5)  (85.6)     (85.6)   
Total net sales
  
1,906.5
   
1,822.3
   
5,633.5
   
5,029.7
 
              
                 
Costs and expenses                
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization) (a)
  
1,659.5
   
1,516.7
   
4,736.4
   
4,228.2
 
Depreciation and amortization (Notes 8 and 10)  
71.8
   
64.5
   
206.7
   
184.0
 
Property insurance gain (Note 5)     (2.8)     (76.9)
Business consolidation costs (Notes 5 and 16)           1.7 
Selling, general and administrative (Note 1)  84.3   66.5   253.8   210.3 
   1,815.6   1,644.9   5,196.9   4,547.3 
                 
                 
Earnings before interest and taxes (a)
  
90.9
   
177.4
   
436.6
   
482.4
 
                 
                 
Interest expense  (36.2)  (37.2)  (112.2)  (98.1)
                 
Earnings before taxes  54.7   140.2   324.4   384.3 
Tax provision (Note 12) (a)
  3.1   (36.6)  (85.9)  (114.2)
Minority interests  (0.1)  (0.1)  (0.3)  (0.5)
Equity results in affiliates  3.2   3.6   9.8   11.7 
                 
                 
Net earnings (a)
 $
60.9
  $
107.1
  $
248.0
  $
281.3
 
                 
                 
Earnings per share (Note 15) (a):
                
Basic $
0.60
  $
1.04
  $
2.44
  $
2.72
 
Diluted $
0.59
  $
1.02
  $
2.40
  $
2.68
 
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding (in thousands) (Note 15):
                
Basic  101,422   103,292   101,691   103,397 
Diluted  102,997   104,901   103,372   105,124 
                 
Cash dividends declared and paid, per common share
 $
0.10
  $
0.10
  $
0.30
  $
0.30
 

(a)
The 2006 periods have been retrospectively adjusted for the company’s change in the fourth quarter of 2006 from the last-in, first-out method of inventory accounting for two of its segments to the first-in, first-out method. Additional details are available in Note 7.

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 1


UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries


($ in millions)
 
September 30,
2007
  
December 31,
2006
 
ASSETS
      
Current assets      
Cash and cash equivalents $
79.4
  $
151.5
 
Receivables, net (Note 6)  852.8   579.5 
Inventories, net (Note 7)  867.6   935.4 
Deferred taxes, prepaid expenses and other (Note 12)  80.1   94.9 
Total current assets  1,879.9   1,761.3 
         
Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 8)  1,941.0   1,876.0 
Goodwill (Notes 4 and 9)  1,837.8   1,773.7 
Intangibles and other assets, net (Note 10)  356.7   429.9 
Total Assets
 $
6,015.4
  $
5,840.9
 
         
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
        
Current liabilities        
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt (Note 11) $
169.4
  $
181.3
 
Accounts payable  737.5   732.4 
Accrued employee costs  216.3   201.1 
Income taxes payable (Note 12)  35.2   71.8 
Other current liabilities (Note 5)  266.4   267.7 
Total current liabilities  1,424.8   1,454.3 
         
Long-term debt (Note 11)  2,228.9   2,270.4 
Employee benefit obligations (Note 13)  857.8   847.7 
Deferred taxes and other liabilities (Note 12)  145.3   102.1 
Total liabilities  4,656.8   4,674.5 
         
Contingencies (Note 17)        
Minority interests  1.3   1.0 
         
Shareholders’ equity (Note 14)        
Common stock (160,881,984 shares issued – 2007; 160,026,936 shares issued – 2006)  
752.1
   
703.4
 
Retained earnings  1,741.0   1,535.3 
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss)  32.1   (29.5)
Treasury stock, at cost (59,759,605 shares – 2007; 55,889,948 shares – 2006)  (1,167.9)  (1,043.8)
Total shareholders’ equity  1,357.3   1,165.4 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 $
6,015.4
  $
5,840.9
 
  Three Months Ended 
  March 30,  April 1, 
($ in millions, except per share amounts) 2008  2007 
       
Net sales $1,740.2  $1,694.2 
         
Costs and expenses        
Cost of sales (excluding depreciation and amortization)  1,437.7   1,394.3 
Depreciation and amortization (Notes 8 and 10)  74.6   65.0 
Gain on sale of subsidiary (Note 4)  (7.1)   
Selling, general and administrative  81.6   82.2 
   1,586.8   1,541.5 
         
Earnings before interest and taxes  153.4   152.7 
         
Interest expense  (36.2)  (37.9)
         
Earnings before taxes  117.2   114.8 
Tax provision  (37.2)  (36.7)
Minority interests  (0.1)  (0.1)
Equity in results of affiliates  3.9   3.2 
         
Net earnings $83.8  $81.2 
         
Earnings per share (Note 14):        
Basic $0.86  $0.79 
Diluted $0.85  $0.78 
         
Weighted average shares outstanding (000s) (Note 14):
        
Basic  97,199   102,110 
Diluted  98,589   103,815 
         
Cash dividends declared and paid, per common share $0.10  $0.10 





See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 21


UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWSBALANCE SHEETS
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries


($ in millions)
 Nine Months Ended 
  September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
      
Net earnings (a)
 $
248.0
  $
281.3
 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:        
Depreciation and amortization  206.7   184.0 
Legal settlement (Note 5)  85.6    
Property insurance gain (Note 5)     (76.9)
Business consolidation costs (Notes 5 and 16)     1.7 
Deferred taxes (Note 7) (a)
  (7.7)  27.7 
Other, net  27.1   (41.0)
Changes in working capital components, excluding effects of acquisitions (Note 7) (a)
  (154.5)  (260.7)
Cash provided by operating activities
  405.2   116.1 
         
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
        
Additions to property, plant and equipment  (222.9)  (187.6)
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 4)     (786.4)
Property insurance proceeds (Note 5)  48.6   32.4 
Other, net  (5.4)  9.7 
Cash used in investing activities
  (179.7)  (931.9)
         
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
        
Long-term borrowings  16.8   984.1 
Repayments of long-term borrowings  (31.5)  (100.9)
Change in short-term borrowings  (106.9)  7.0 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock  38.0   27.9 
Acquisitions of treasury stock  (193.1)  (72.6)
Common dividends  (30.4)  (30.7)
Other, net  8.3   (2.1)
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities
  (298.8)  812.7 
         
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  1.2   1.2 
         
Change in cash and cash equivalents
  (72.1)  (1.9)
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period  151.5   61.0 
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period $
79.4
  $
59.1
 



(a)
The nine months ended October 1, 2006, have been retrospectively adjusted for the company’s change in the fourth quarter of 2006 from the last-in, first-out method of inventory accounting for two of its segments to the first-in, first-out method. Additional details are available in Note 7.
($ in millions) March 30,  December 31, 
  2008  2007 
ASSETS      
Current assets      
Cash and cash equivalents $89.9  $151.6 
Receivables, net (Note 6)  675.1   582.7 
Inventories, net (Note 7)  1,134.0   998.1 
Deferred taxes and other current assets  156.2   110.5 
Total current assets  2,055.2   1,842.9 
         
Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 8)  1,999.9   1,941.2 
Goodwill (Note 9)  1,952.6   1,863.1 
Intangibles and other assets, net (Note 10)  438.5   373.4 
Total Assets $6,446.2  $6,020.6 
         
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
Current liabilities        
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt (Note 11) $309.1  $176.8 
Accounts payable  734.7   763.6 
Accrued employee costs  192.6   238.0 
Income taxes payable  33.9   15.7 
Other current liabilities  225.5   319.0 
Total current liabilities  1,495.8   1,513.1 
         
Long-term debt (Note 11)  2,450.5   2,181.8 
Employee benefit obligations (Note 12)  794.6   799.0 
Deferred taxes and other liabilities  246.8   183.1 
Total liabilities  4,987.7   4,677.0 
         
Contingencies (Note 17)        
Minority interests  1.2   1.1 
         
Shareholders’ equity (Note 13)        
Common stock (160,761,666 shares issued – 2008; 160,678,695 shares issued – 2007)  767.4   760.3 
Retained earnings  1,839.1   1,765.0 
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings  236.4   106.9 
Treasury stock, at cost (63,080,522 shares – 2008; 60,454,245 shares – 2007)  (1,385.6)  (1,289.7)
Total shareholders’ equity  1,457.3   1,342.5 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $6,446.2  $6,020.6 



See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 2


UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries


($ in millions) Three Months Ended 
  March 30, 2008  April 1, 2007 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities      
Net earnings $83.8  $81.2 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash used in operating activities:        
Depreciation and amortization  74.6   65.0 
Gain on sale of subsidiary  (7.1)   
Deferred taxes  (5.1)  (7.5)
Other, net  (18.1)  14.0 
Changes in working capital components, excluding effects of acquisitions and dispositions  (342.7)  (260.4)
Cash used in operating activities  (214.6)  (107.7)
         
Cash Flows from Investing Activities        
Additions to property, plant and equipment  (74.5)  (88.1)
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary, net of cash sold  8.7    
Property insurance proceeds (Note 8)     48.6 
Other, net  (2.3)  2.4 
Cash used in investing activities  (68.1)  (37.1)
         
Cash Flows from Financing Activities        
Long-term borrowings  270.7   215.6 
Repayments of long-term borrowings  (32.3)  (103.7)
Change in short-term borrowings  113.7   27.3 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock  6.4   11.0 
Acquisitions of treasury stock  (131.5)  (98.5)
Common dividends  (9.6)  (10.2)
Other, net  0.4   3.0 
Cash provided by financing activities  217.8   44.5 
         
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  3.2    
         
Change in cash and cash equivalents  (61.7)  (100.3)
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period  151.6   151.5 
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period $89.9  $51.2 






See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 3


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

1.
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Ball Corporation and its controlled affiliates (collectively Ball, the company, we or our) and have been prepared by the company without audit. Certain information and footnote disclosures, including critical and significant accounting policies, normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, have been condensed or omitted.

Results of operations for the periods shown are not necessarily indicative of results for the year, particularly in view of the seasonality in the packaging segments. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 20062007 (annual report).

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates are based on historical experience and various assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from these estimates under different assumptions and conditions. However, we believe that the financial statements reflect all adjustments which are of a normal recurring nature and are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim period.

Ball adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. (FIN) 48 as ofEffective January 1, 2007, and has identified accounting for uncertain tax positions under this guidance as a critical accounting policy. Considering tax laws of the multiple jurisdictions in which we operate, both domestic and foreign, we assess whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination and through any litigation and measure the largest amount of the benefit that is likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement. Consistent with our practice prior to adoption of FIN 48, we record related interest expense and penalties, if any, as a tax provision expense. Actual results may differ substantially from our estimates.

During the fourth quarter of 2006, Ball’s management changed the company’s method of inventory accounting from last-in, first-out (LIFO) to first-in, first-out (FIFO) in the metal beverage packaging, Americas, and the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segments. Results for the three months and nine months ended October 1, 2006, have been retrospectively adjusted on a FIFO basis in accordance with2008, Ball adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 154 (see Note 7).

Subsequent157, “Fair Value Measurements,” and has identified its implications as a critical accounting policy. SFAS No. 157 establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Although it does not require any new fair value measurements, the statement emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. At this time the January 1, 2008, adoption covers only financial assets and liabilities but, subject to the issuancea deferral, will be expanded to nonfinancial assets and liabilities as of itsJanuary 1, 2009, except for those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements foron a recurring basis. Details regarding the year ended December 31, 2005,adoption of SFAS No. 157 and its effects on the company determined that certain foreign currency exchange losses had been inadvertently deferred for the years 2005, 2004 and 2003. As a result, selling, general and administrative expenses were understated by $2.5 million, $2.3 million and $1 million in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Management assessed the impact of these adjustments and did not believe these amounts were material, individually or in the aggregate, to any previously issuedcompany’s condensed consolidated financial statements or to our full year resultsare available in Note 15, “Fair Value of operations for 2006. A cumulative $5.8 million pretax out-of-period adjustment was included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the first quarter of 2006.Financial Instruments.”

Certain prior-year amounts have been reclassified in order to conform to the current-year presentation.

2.New Accounting Standards

In addition, withinApril 2008 the company’s annual report,Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. 142-3, “Determination of the consolidated statementUseful Life of changesIntangible Assets.” This FSP amends the factors that should be considered in shareholders’ equitydeveloping renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under FASB Statement No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” This FSP is effective for Ball as of January 1, 2009, on a prospective basis, and early adoption is prohibited.

In March 2008 the year ended December 31, 2006, included a transition adjustment of $47.9 million, net of tax, related to the adoption ofFASB issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension Plans161, “Disclosures About Derivative Instruments and Other Postretirement Plans,Hedging Activities – an Amendment of FASB StatementsStatement No. 87, 88, 106 and 132(R),133. as a component of 2006 comprehensive earnings rather than only as an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss. Had the transition adjustment of $47.9 million been presented in accordance with SFAS No. 158, comprehensive earnings161 is intended to enhance the current disclosure requirement in SFAS No. 133. It requires that objectives for using derivative instruments be disclosed in terms of underlying risk and accounting designation, as well as information about credit-risk-related contingent features. It also requires a company to disclose the year ended December 31, 2006, would have been $448.7 million rather thanfair values of derivative instruments and their gains and losses in a tabular format to make more transparent the $400.8 million reportedlocation in a company’s financial statements of both the annual report.derivative positions existing at period end and the effect of using derivatives during the reporting period. The company will also be required to cross-reference within the footnotes to help users of financial statements locate information about derivative instruments. SFAS No. 161 is effective for Ball beginning on January 1, 2009, and is currently under evaluation by the company.


Page 4


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

1.
2.
New Accounting Standards Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation (continued)(continued)

Management has determinedIn December 2007 the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations,” which replaces the original SFAS No. 141 issued in June 2001. The new standard retains the fundamental requirements in SFAS No. 141 that the effectpurchase method of accounting be used for all business combinations and for an acquirer to be identified for each business combination. SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007) requires an acquirer to recognize the assets acquired and liabilities assumed measured at their fair values on the consolidated statement of changes in shareholders’ equity for this change in presentation was not materialacquisition date, which replaces SFAS No. 141’s cost-allocation method. SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007) also requires the costs incurred to complete the 2006 consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. Comprehensive earnings for 2006acquisition and related restructuring costs to be recognized separately from the business combination. The new standard will be revised in future presentations of the consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity.

2.
New Accounting Standards
effective for Ball on a prospective basis beginning on January 1, 2009.

In April 2007 the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) FINFSP Interpretation No. (FIN) 39-1, “Amendment of FASB Interpretation No. 39,” which amends the terms of FIN 39, paragraph 3 to replace the terms “conditional contracts” and “exchange contracts” with the term “derivative instruments” as defined in SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” It also amends paragraph 10 of FIN 39 to permit a reporting entity to offset fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) against fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement that have been offset in accordance with that paragraph. FSP FIN 39-1 will bebecame effective for Ball as of January 1, 2008, and is currently under evaluation by the company.company has chosen not to offset such positions.

In February 2007 the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115,” which permits companies to choose, at specified election dates, to measure certain financial instruments and other eligible items at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are subsequently reported in earnings. The decision to elect the fair value option is generally irrevocable, is applied instrument by instrument and can only be applied to an entire instrument. The standard which will bebecame effective for Ball as of January 1, 2008, is currently under evaluation byand the company. At this time, we docompany did not expect to elect the fair value option for any eligible items and did not early adopt the standard in the first quarter of 2007 as permitted.

In September 2006 the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” which establishes a framework for measuring value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Although it does not require any new fair value measurements, the statement emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and should be determined based on the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The standard, which will be effective for Ball as of January 1, 2008, is currently under evaluation by the company.

In June 2006 the FASB issued FIN 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” which prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 became effective for Ball beginning on January 1, 2007. The adoption of FIN 48 included a net increase in uncertain tax liabilities of $2.1 million to a total of $45.8 million, excluding $1.2 million accrued in the opening balance sheet of the acquisition of U.S. Can Corporation (see Note 4). The company records the related interest expense and penalties, if any, as a tax expense, consistent with the practice prior to adoption.  Additional details about the adoption of FIN 48 are provided in Note 12. In May 2007 the FASB amended FIN 48 by issuing FSP FIN 48-1, which provides guidance on how an enterprise should determine whether a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits. The adoption of FSP FIN 48-1 did not result in any changes to the amounts recorded upon the initial adoption of FIN 48 or during the nine months ended September 30, 2007.


Page 5


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiariesitems.

3.
Business Segment Information

Ball’s operations are organized and reviewed by management along its product lines in five reportable segments:segments. Due to first quarter 2008 management reporting changes, Ball’s People’s Republic of China (PRC) operations are now included in the metal beverage packaging, Americas and Asia, segment (previously included with the company’s European operations). The results for the quarter ended April 1, 2007, and our financial position at December 31, 2007, have been retrospectively adjusted to conform to the current year presentation.

Metal beverage packaging, Americas and Asia,Americas:  Consists of operations in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico and the PRC, which manufacture and sell metal beverage containers primarily for use in beverage packaging.North America and the PRC, as well as non-beverage plastic containers in the PRC.

Metal bbeverage packaging, Europeeverage packaging, Europe/Asia:  Consists of operations in several countries in Europe, and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which manufacture and sell metal beverage containers in Europe and Asia, as well as plastic containers in Asia.containers.  Future operations will also include India.

Metal food & household pproducts packaging, Americasroducts packaging, Americas: Consists of operations in the U.S., Canada and Argentina, which manufacture and sell metal food cans, aerosol cans, paint cans and custom and specialty cans.

Plastic packaging, Americaspackaging,Americas:  Consists of operations in the U.S. and Canada, which manufacture and sell polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene containers, primarily for use in beverage and food packaging. Effective January 1, 2007, thisThis segment also includes the manufacture and sale of plastic containers used for industrial and household products, which were previously reported within the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment.products.

Aerospace and technologies&:technologies:  Consists of the manufacture and sale of aerospace and other related products and the providing of services used primarily in the defense, civil space and commercial space industries.


Page 5


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

3.
Business Segment Information (continued)

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those in the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. A discussion of the company’s critical and significant accounting policies can be found in Ball’s annual report. We also have investments in companies in the U.S., PRC and Brazil, which are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and, accordingly, those results are not included in segment sales or earnings.

In the fourth quarter of 2006, the company changed its method of inventory accounting in the metal beverage packaging, Americas, and the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segments from LIFO to FIFO (see Note 1). Effective January 1, 2007,a plastic pail product line with expected annual net sales of $55 million was transferred from the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment to the plastic packaging, Americas, segment. The three months and nine months ended October 1, 2006, have been retrospectively adjusted to conform to the current presentation for the change in inventory accounting method, as well as the transfer of the plastic pail product line.
Summary of Business by Segment Three Months Ended 
($ in millions) March 30, 2008  April 1, 2007 
       
Net Sales      
Metal beverage packaging, Americas & Asia $703.9  $701.8 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe  405.6   320.7 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas  263.8   278.8 
Plastic packaging, Americas  188.9   186.6 
Aerospace and technologies  178.0   206.3 
Net sales $1,740.2  $1,694.2 
         
Net Earnings        
Metal beverage packaging, Americas & Asia $74.0  $101.9 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe  48.0   36.8 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas  14.8   (0.2)
Plastic packaging, Americas  4.8   2.3 
Aerospace and technologies  14.9   19.6 
Gain on sale of subsidiary (Note 4)  7.1    
Total aerospace and technologies  22.0   19.6 
Segment earnings before interest and taxes  163.6   160.4 
Corporate undistributed expenses, net  (10.2)  (7.7)
Earnings before interest and taxes  153.4   152.7 
Interest expense  (36.2)  (37.9)
Tax provision  (37.2)  (36.7)
Minority interests  (0.1)  (0.1)
Equity in results of affiliates  3.9   3.2 
Net earnings $83.8  $81.2 


($ in millions) As of  As of 
  March 30, 2008  December 31, 2007 
Total Assets      
Metal beverage packaging, Americas & Asia $1,531.3  $1,400.8 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe  2,731.9   2,369.3 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas  1,134.6   1,141.7 
Plastic packaging, Americas  566.6   568.8 
Aerospace & technologies  272.9   278.7 
Segment assets  6,237.3   5,759.3 
Corporate assets, net of eliminations  208.9   261.3 
Total assets $6,446.2  $6,020.6 


Page 6


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

3.
Business Segment Information (continued)(continued)

  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
 
($ in millions)
 September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
  September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
 
             
Net Sales
            
Metal beverage packaging, Americas $728.8  $659.6  $2,182.9  $1,992.6 
Legal settlement (Note 5)  (85.6)     (85.6)   
   Total metal beverage packaging, Americas  643.2   659.6   2,097.3   1,992.6 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia  522.4   425.1   1,446.7   1,159.8 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas  
349.5
   
366.0
   
912.3
   
850.5
 
Plastic packaging, Americas  195.0   201.2   580.3   521.1 
Aerospace & technologies  196.4   170.4   596.9   505.7 
Net sales $1,906.5  $1,822.3  $5,633.5  $5,029.7 
                 
Net Earnings
                
Metal beverage packaging, Americas $65.0  $73.0  $241.4  $193.5 
Legal settlement (Note 5)  (85.6)     (85.6)   
Metal beverage packaging, Americas  (20.6)  73.0   155.8   193.5 
                 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia  81.0   63.2   218.5   158.8 
Property insurance gain (Note 5)     2.8      76.9 
Total metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia  
81.0
   
66.0
   
218.5
   
235.7
 
                 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas  
14.5
   
19.7
   
25.4
   
27.2
 
Business consolidation costs (Note 5)           (1.7)
Total metal food & household products packaging, Americas  
14.5
   
19.7
   
25.4
   
25.5
 
                 
Plastic packaging, Americas  7.7   7.9   17.1   18.3 
Aerospace & technologies  18.3   15.6   53.5   33.4 
Segment earnings before interest and taxes  100.9   182.2   470.3   506.4 
Corporate undistributed expenses, net  (10.0)  (4.8)  (33.7)  (24.0)
Earnings before interest and taxes  90.9   177.4   436.6   482.4 
Interest expense  (36.2)  (37.2)  (112.2)  (98.1)
Tax provision  3.1   (36.6)  (85.9)  (114.2)
Minority interests  (0.1)  (0.1)  (0.3)  (0.5)
Equity in results of affiliates  3.2   3.6   9.8   11.7 
Net earnings $60.9  $107.1  $248.0  $281.3 

The following table provides the 2007 segment net sales and earnings before interest and taxes had the change in segment presentation for Ball’s PRC operations occurred as of January 1, 2007:
Page 7


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries
 
($ in millions)
 
First
Quarter
  
Second
Quarter
  
Third
Quarter
  
Fourth
Quarter
  
Total
2007
 
                
Net sales               
Metal beverage packaging, Americas & Asia $701.8  $871.2  $711.4(a) $728.1  $3,012.5 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe  320.7   484.8   454.2   393.9   1,653.6 
                     
Earnings before interest and taxes                    
Metal beverage packaging, Americas & Asia  101.9   89.1   (14.4)(a)  64.2   240.8 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe  36.8   86.1   74.8   31.2   228.9 

3.
(a)
Amounts were reduced by a pretax legal settlement of $85.6 million.

Business Segment Information (continued)
4.Sale of Subsidiary

 
($ in millions)
 
As of
September 30, 2007
  
As of
December 31, 2006
 
       
Total Assets
      
Metal beverage packaging, Americas $
1,169.2
  $
1,147.2
 
Metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia  2,584.6   2,412.7 
Metal food & household products packaging, Americas (a)
  1,214.4   1,094.9 
Plastic packaging, Americas (a)
  577.7   609.0 
Aerospace & technologies  292.8   268.2 
Segment assets  5,838.7   5,532.0 
Corporate assets, net of eliminations  176.7   308.9 
Total assets $
6,015.4
  $
5,840.9
 
On February 15, 2008, Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. (BATC) completed the sale of its shares in Ball Solutions Group Pty Ltd (BSG) to QinetiQ Pty Ltd for approximately $10.5 million, including $1.8 million of cash sold. BSG was previously a wholly owned Australian subsidiary of BATC that provided services to the Australian department of defense and related government agencies. After an adjustment for working capital items, the sale resulted in a pretax gain of $7.1 million ($4.4 million after tax). The sale is not significant to the aerospace and technologies segment’s financial statements or its ongoing results.

(a)
5.
Amounts in 2006 have been retrospectively adjusted for the transfer of a plastic pail product line with assets of approximately $65 million from the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment to the plastic packaging, Americas, segment, which occurred as of January 1, 2007.
Business Consolidation Activities

4.
Acquisitions
2007

U.S. Can CorporationMetal Food & Household Products Packaging, Americas

On March 27, 2006,In October 2007 Ball acquired all ofannounced plans to close two manufacturing facilities and to exit the issuedcustom and outstanding shares of U.S. Can Corporation (U.S. Can) for 444,756 common shares ofdecorative tinplate can business located in Baltimore, Maryland. Ball Corporation (valued at $44.28 per share for a total of $19.7 million) pursuant to the provisions of a merger agreement dated February 14, 2006, among Ball, U.S. Can and the shareholders of U.S. Can (merger agreement). Contemporaneously with the acquisition, Ball refinanced $598.2 million of U.S. Can debt, including $26.8 million of bond redemption premiums and fees, and over the next several years, expects to realize approximately $42 million of acquired net operating tax loss carryforwards. The acquired operations are included in the metalwill close its food and household products packaging Americas, segment, except for a plastic pail productfacilities in Tallapoosa, Georgia, and Commerce, California, both of which manufacture aerosol and general line that was transferred to the company’s plastic packaging, Americas, segment effective January 1, 2007, for which 2006 amounts have been retrospectively adjusted.cans. The acquisition has been accounted for as a purchase and, accordingly, its results have been includedtwo plant closures will result in the consolidated financial statements since March 27, 2006.

Pursuant to the merger agreement, a certain portion of the common share consideration issued for the acquisition of U.S. Can was placed in escrow and was subsequently converted into cash, which remains in escrow. During the second quarter of 2007, Ball asserted claims against the former shareholders of U.S. Can, and the escrowed cash will be used to satisfy such claims to the extent they are agreed to or sustained.

Alcan Packaging

On March 28, 2006, Ball acquired North American plastic bottle container assets from Alcan Packaging (Alcan) for $184.7 million cash. The acquired business primarily manufactures and sells barrier polypropylene plastic bottles used in food packaging and, to a lesser extent, barrier PET plastic bottles used for beverages and food. The operations acquired form part of Ball’s plastic packaging, Americas, segment. The acquisition has been accounted for as a purchase and, accordingly, its results have been included in the consolidated financial statements since March 28, 2006.

Page 8


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

4.
Acquisitions (continued)

Following is a summary of the net assets acquired in the U.S. Can and Alcan transactions. The valuations were performed by management, including identification and valuation of acquired intangible assets and of liabilities, including development and assessment of associated costs of consolidation and integration plans. The company also engaged third party experts to assist management in valuing certain assets and liabilities including inventory; property, plant and equipment; intangible assets and pension and other post-retirement obligations. During the first quarter of 2007, the company completed its valuation of the acquired assets and liabilities and revised the purchase price allocations accordingly. The final purchase price allocations resulted primarily in an increase in identifiable intangible assets for both acquisitions.

 
 
 
 
($ in millions)
 
U.S. Can
(Metal Food & Household Products Packaging, Americas)
  
Alcan (Plastic Packaging, Americas)
  
Total
 
          
Cash $0.2  $  $0.2 
Property, plant and equipment  164.6   73.6   238.2 
Goodwill  353.2   48.6   401.8 
Intangibles  63.9   33.7   97.6 
Other assets, primarily inventories and receivables  
220.1
   
40.1
   
260.2
 
Liabilities assumed (excluding refinanced debt), primarily current  (184.1)  (11.3)  (195.4)
Net assets acquired $617.9  $184.7  $802.6 

With the assistance of an independent valuation firm, the customer relationships and acquired technologies of both acquisitions were identified as valuable intangible assets, and the company assigned to them an estimated life of 20 years based on the valuation firm’s estimates. Because the acquisition of U.S. Can was a stock purchase, neither the goodwill nor the intangible assets are deductible for U.S. income tax purposes unless, and until such time as, the stock is sold. However, because the Alcan acquisition was an asset purchase, the amortization of goodwill and intangible assets is deductible for U.S. tax purposes.

5.
Legal Settlement, Property Insurance Gain and Business Consolidation Activities

2007

Legal Settlement

During the second quarter of 2007, Miller Brewing Company (Miller), a U.S. customer, asserted various claims against a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, primarily related to the pricing of the aluminum component of the containers supplied by the subsidiary.  On October 4, 2007, the dispute was settled in mediation. Ball will continue to supply all of Millers beverage can and end business through 2015 and Miller will receive $85.6 million ($51.8 million after tax), with approximately $70 million to be paid in the first quarter of 2008 (recorded on the consolidated balance sheet in other current liabilities). The remainder of the third quarter accrual will be recovered over the life of the contract. Third quarter net sales and pretax earnings have been reduced by the $85.6 million charge.

Details about a fourth quarter 2007 announcement regarding business consolidation activities are available in Note 16, “Subsequent Events.”

Page 9


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

5.
Legal Settlement, Property Insurance Gain and Business Consolidation Activities (continued)

2006

Property Insurance Gain

On April 1, 2006, a fire in the Hassloch, Germany, metal beverage can plant in the company’s metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia, segment damaged a significant portion of the plants building and machinery and equipment. A €26.7 million ($33.8 million) fixed asset write down was recorded in 2006 to reflect the estimated impairment of the assets damaged as a result of the fire. As a result, a pretax gain of €58.4 million ($74.1 million) was recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings in the second quarter of 2006. This pretax gain was revised to €59.6 million ($75.5 million) by the end of 2006. In accordance with the final agreement reached with the insurance company in November 2006, the final property insurance proceeds of €37.6 million ($48.6 million) were received in January 2007. Additionally, €5.1 million ($7 million) and €26.2 million ($35.1 million) were recognized in cost of sales during the third quarter and first nine months of 2007, respectively, for insurance recoveries related to business interruption costs. Approximately €0.8 million of additional business interruption recoveries have been agreed upon with the insurance carrier and will be recognized during the fourth quarter of 2007.

Business Consolidation Activities

Through the first two quarters of 2006, a net reduction in manufacturing capacity of 10 production lines, including the relocation of two high-speed aerosol lines into existing Ball facilities. A pretax charge of $1.7$41.9 million ($1.225.4 million after tax) was recorded in the metal foodfourth quarter in connection with the closure of the aerosol plants, including $10.7 million for severance costs, $23 million for the write down to net realizable value of fixed assets, $2.4 million for excess inventory and household products packaging,$5.8 million for other associated costs. Cash payments of $0.2 million were made in the first quarter of 2008 for employee related costs. The remaining reserves are expected to be utilized during 2008. The carrying value of fixed assets remaining for sale in connection with the plant closures was $8.4 million at March 30, 2008.

Plastic Packaging, Americas segment, primarily to shut down a metal food can production line in Whitby, Ontario.

In the fourth quarter of 2006, the company2007, Ball recorded a pretax charge of $33.6$0.4 million ($27.40.2 million after tax) for severance costs related to the termination of approximately 50 employees in response to lost sales. These severance amounts will be paid by the end of 2008.


Page 7


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

5.
Business Consolidation Activities (continued)

2006

Metal Food & Household Products Packaging, Americas

In October 2006 the company announced plans to close two manufacturing facilities in North America as part of the realignment of the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment following the acquisition earlier in the year of U.S. Can. TheA pretax charge includedof $33.6 million ($27.4 million after tax) was recorded in the fourth quarter related to the Burlington, Ontario, plant closure, including $7.8 million of severance costs, $16.8 million of pension costs and $9 million of other costs. The closure of the Alliance, Ohio, plant, estimated to cost approximately $1 million for employee and other items, was treated as an opening balance sheet item related to the acquisition. Operations have ceased at both plants and payments of $9.8$1.4 million were made in the first nine monthsquarter of 20072008 against the reserves.

Summary

The following table summarizes At March 30, 2008, the 2007 year-to-date activity related to the amounts provided for business consolidation activities:

 
($ in millions)
 
Fixed Assets/
Spare Parts
  Employee Costs  
Other
  
Total
 
             
Balance at December 31, 2006 $6.7  $14.1  $4.3  $25.1 
Payments     (8.4)  (3.7)  (12.1)
Asset dispositions and other  (1.3)     (0.3)  (1.6)
Balance at September 30, 2007 $5.4  $5.7  $0.3  $11.4 

The remaining reserves are expected to be utilized during 2007included $1.1 million for employee costs and 2008.$1.2 million for other costs. The carrying value of fixed assets remaining for sale in connection with business consolidation activities was $15.3$12.7 million at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.

2008.
Page 10

2005

NotesMetal Beverage Packaging, Americas and Asia

The company announced in July 2005 the commencement of a project to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporationupgrade and Subsidiariesstreamline its North American beverage can end manufacturing capabilities. The project is expected to be completed in early 2009 and is resulting in productivity gains and cost reductions. The pretax charge of $19.3 million ($11.7 million after tax) recorded in 2005 included $11.7 million for employee severance, pension and other employee benefit costs; $1.6 million for decommissioning costs; and $6 million for the write off of obsolete equipment spare parts and tooling. Payments of $1.2 million were made in the first quarter of 2008 against the reserve. Severance and other employee benefit costs of $2.5 million remain at March 30, 2008, all of which are expected to be paid in 2008 and 2009 as the remaining end modules are put into operation. Pension costs will be paid over the retirement period for the affected employees.

6.
Receivables

($ in millions) March 30,  December 31, 
  2008  2007 
Trade accounts receivable, net $606.5  $505.4 
Other receivables  68.6   77.3 
  $675.1  $582.7 
The company’s
Trade accounts receivable are shown net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $16.8 million at March 30, 2008, and $13.2 million at December 31, 2007. Other receivables include trade accounts receivable and other types of receivables, including non-income tax receivables, such as property tax and sales tax, insurance claims receivabletax; certain vendor rebate receivables; and other similar items. At September 30, 2007, receivables included $763.1 million of trade accounts receivable and $89.7 million of other receivables and at December 31, 2006, they included $422.2 million of trade accounts receivable and $157.3 million of other receivables.

A receivables sales agreement provides for the ongoing, revolving sale of a designated pool of trade accounts receivable of Ball’s North American packaging operations, up to $250 million (increased from $225 million in August 2007).million. The agreement qualifies as off-balance sheet financing under the provisions of SFAS No. 140, as amended by SFAS No. 156. Net funds received from the sale of the accounts receivable totaled $170$238 million at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and $201.3$170 million at December 31, 2006,2007, and are reflected as a reduction of accounts receivable in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

7.
Inventories

 
($ in millions)
 
September 30,
2007
  
December 31,
2006
 
       
Raw materials and supplies $
357.8
  $
445.6
 
Work in process and finished goods  
509.8
   
489.8
 
  $
867.6
  $
935.4
 

Historically the cost of the majority of metal beverage packaging, Americas, and metal food and household products packaging, Americas, inventories was determined using the LIFO method of accounting. During the fourth quarter of 2006, the company determined that the FIFO method of inventory accounting better matches revenues and expenses in accordance with sales contract terms. Therefore, in the fourth quarter of 2006, the accounting policy was changed to record all inventories using the FIFO method of accounting. For comparative purposes, the 2006 statements of earnings and cash flows have been retrospectively adjusted on a FIFO basis in accordance with SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections – a Replacement of APB Opinion No. 20 and FASB Statement No. 3.”

The following table summarizes the effect of the accounting change on the company’s consolidated financial statements:

  
Three Months Ended
October 1, 2006
  
Nine Months Ended
October 1, 2006
 
 
 
($ in millions, except per share amounts)
 
As Originally Reported
  As Adjusted for Accounting Change  
As Originally Reported
  As Adjusted for Accounting Change 
             
Consolidated statements of earnings:            
Cost of sales $1,526.0  $1,516.7  $4,232.3  $4,228.2 
Tax provision  32.9   36.6   112.6   114.2 
Net earnings  101.5   107.1   278.8   281.3 
Basic earnings per share  0.98   1.04   2.70   2.72 
Diluted earnings per share  0.97   1.02   2.65   2.68 
                 
Consolidated statements of cash flows:                
Deferred taxes          26.1   27.7 
Change in working capital components          (256.6)  (260.7)

Page 118


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

8.
7.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Inventories

($ in millions)
 
September 30,
2007
  
December 31,
2006
 
       
Land $
91.8
  $
88.5
 
Buildings  
812.6
   
764.1
 
Machinery and equipment  
2,895.6
   
2,618.6
 
Construction in progress  
141.2
   
215.1
 
   
3,941.2
   
3,686.3
 
Accumulated depreciation  (2,000.2)  (1,810.3)
  $
1,941.0
  $
1,876.0
 
($ in millions) 
March 30,
2008
  
December 31,
2007
 
       
Raw materials and supplies $396.3  $433.6 
Work in process and finished goods  737.7   564.5 
  $1,134.0  $998.1 

8.Property, Plant and Equipment

($ in millions) 
March 30,
2008
  
December 31,
2007
 
       
Land $95.0  $92.2 
Buildings  839.4   820.1 
Machinery and equipment  3,007.7   2,914.2 
Construction in progress  163.0   154.7 
   4,105.1   3,981.2 
Accumulated depreciation  (2,105.2)  (2,040.0)
  $1,999.9  $1,941.2 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost. Depreciation expense amounted to $67.4$70.2 million and $194.1$61.2 million for the three months ended March 30, 2008, and nine months ended September 30,April 1, 2007, respectively, and $60.8 million and $173.3 million for the three months and nine months ended October 1, 2006, respectively.

On April 1, 2006, a fire in the metal beverage can plant in Hassloch, Germany, damaged a significant portion of the building and machinery and equipment. In accordance with the final agreement reached with the insurance company in November 2006, the final property insurance proceeds of €37.6 million ($48.6 million) were received in January 2007.  Additionally, €8.3 million ($10.9 million) was recognized during the first quarter of 2007 for insurance recoveries related to business interruption costs.
9.
Goodwill

($ in millions)
 
Metal Beverage
Packaging, Americas
  
Metal
Beverage
Packaging, Europe/Asia
  
Metal Food & Household Products Packaging,
Americas
  
Plastic
Packaging,
Americas
  Total 
                
Balance at December 31, 2006 $279.4  $1,020.6  $389.0  $84.7  $1,773.7 
Purchase accounting adjustments (a)
        (4.7)  (1.0)  (5.7)
Transfer of plastic pail product line        (30.0)  30.0    
FIN 48 adoption adjustments (Notes 2 and 12)  
   (9.3)  
   
   (9.3)
Effects of foreign currency exchange rates  
   
78.7
   
   
0.4
   
79.1
 
Balance at September 30, 2007 $
279.4
  $
1,090.0
  $
354.3
  $
114.1
  $
1,837.8
 
 
($ in millions)
 
Metal Beverage
Packaging, Americas & Asia
  
Metal
Beverage
Packaging, Europe
  
Metal Food & Household Products Packaging,
Americas
  
Plastic
Packaging,
Americas
  
 
 
 
Total
 
Balance at December 31, 2007 $310.1  $1,084.6  $354.3  $114.1  $1,863.1 
Effects of foreign currency exchange rates     89.5         89.5 
Balance at March 30, 2008 $310.1  $1,174.1  $354.3  $114.1  $1,952.6 

(a)
Related to the final purchase price allocations for the U.S. Can and Alcan acquisitions discussed in Note 4.

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill is not amortized but instead tested annually for impairment. There has been no goodwill impairment since the adoption of SFAS No. 142 on January 1, 2002.

Page 129


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

10.
Intangibles and Other Assets

($ in millions)
 
September 30,
2007
  
December 31,
2006
  March 30,  December 31, 
       2008  2007 
Investments in affiliates $
76.9
  $
76.5
  $82.0  $77.6 
Intangibles (net of accumulated amortization of $87.1 at
September 30, 2007, and $70.7 at December 31, 2006)
 
124.6
  
116.2
 
Intangibles (net of accumulated amortization of $102 at March 30, 2008, and $92.9 at December 31, 2007)  119.4   121.9 
Company-owned life insurance 
87.3
  
77.5
  94.3  88.9 
Noncurrent derivative asset 68.7   
Deferred tax asset 
8.6
  
34.9
  1.2  4.3 
Property insurance receivable (Note 5) 
  
49.7
 
Other  
59.3
   
75.1
   72.9   80.7 
 $
356.7
  $
429.9
  $438.5  $373.4 

Total amortization expense of intangible assets amounted to $4.4 million and $12.6$3.8 million for the first three months of 2008 and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively, and $3.7 million and $10.7 million for the comparable periods in 2006, respectively.

11.
Debt and Interest Costs

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

 
September 30, 2007   
  December 31, 2006  March 30, 2008  December 31, 2007 
(in millions)
 
In Local
Currency
  
In U.S. $
  
In Local
Currency
  
In U.S. $
  
In Local
Currency
  
In U.S. $
  
In Local
Currency
  
In U.S. $
 
                        
Notes Payable
                        
6.875% Senior Notes, due December 2012 (excluding premium of $2.8 in 2007 and $3.2 in 2006) $
550.0
  $
550.0
  $
550.0
  $
550.0
 
6.625% Senior Notes, due March 2018 (excluding discount of $0.8 in 2007 and $0.9 in 2006) $
450.0
  
450.0
  $
450.0
  
450.0
 
6.875% Senior Notes, due December 2012 (excluding premium of $2.5 in 2008 and $2.7 in 2007) $550.0  $550.0  $550.0  $550.0 
6.625% Senior Notes, due March 2018 (excluding discount of $0.8 in 2008 and $0.8 in 2007) $450.0  450.0  $450.0  450.0 
Senior Credit Facilities, due October 2011 (at variable rates)
                                
Term A Loan, British sterling denominated 85.0  173.9  85.0  166.4  82.9  165.3   ₤82.9  164.7 
Term B Loan, euro denominated 350.0  499.1  350.0  462.0  341.3  539.3  341.3  498.2 
Term C Loan, Canadian dollar denominated C$129.0  129.7  C$134.0  114.9  C$126.8  124.2  C$126.8  127.6 
Term D Loan, U.S. dollar denominated $500.0  500.0  $500.0  500.0  $487.5  487.5  $487.5  487.5 
U.S. dollar multi-currency revolver borrowings $10.0  10.0  $15.0  15.0  $240.0  240.0  $   
British sterling multi-currency revolver borrowings  4.0  8.2  4.0  7.8  2.1  4.2  2.1  4.2 
Canadian dollar multi-currency revolver borrowings C$7.5  7.5     
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds
                                
Floating rates due through 2015 $13.0  13.0  $20.0  20.0  $9.5  9.5  $13.0  13.0 
Other
 Various   20.5  Various   25.5  Various   15.8  Various   13.7 
     2,361.9      2,311.6      2,585.8      2,308.9 
Less: Current portion of long-term debt      (133.0)      (41.2)      (135.3)      (127.1)
     $2,228.9      $2,270.4      $2,450.5      $2,181.8 

At SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, approximately $683$465 million was available under the multi-currency revolving credit facilities, which provide for up to $750 million in U.S. dollar equivalents. The company also had short-term uncommitted credit facilities of up to $342$337 million at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, of which $36.4$173.8 million was outstanding and due on demand.


Page 1310


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

11.
Debt and Interest Costs (continued)(continued)

The notes payable are guaranteed on a full, unconditional and joint and several basis by certain of the company’s wholly owned domestic subsidiaries. The notes payable also contain certain covenants and restrictions including, among other things, limits on the incurrence of additional indebtedness and limits on the amount of restricted payments, such as dividends and share repurchases. Exhibit 20 contains unaudited condensed, consolidating financial information for the company, segregating the guarantor subsidiaries and non-guarantor subsidiaries. Separate financial statements for the guarantor subsidiaries and the non-guarantor subsidiaries are not presented because management has determined that such financial statements would not be material to investors.

The company was in compliance with all loan agreements at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and has met all debt payment obligations. The U.S. note agreements, bank credit agreement and industrial development revenue bond agreements contain certain restrictions relating to dividend payments, share repurchases, investments, financial ratios, guarantees and the incurrence of additional indebtedness.

12.
Income Taxes
Employee Benefit Obligations

The third quarter 2007 provision for income taxes was reduced by $10.8 million to adjust for the impact on deferred taxes of enacted income tax rate reductions in Germany and the United Kingdom. This benefit was offset by $3.8 million of additional taxes, primarily for reduced tax credits and a lower manufacturer’s deduction in the U.S. as a result of the legal settlement with a customer.
($ in millions) March 30,  December 31, 
  2008  2007 
Total defined benefit pension liability $440.5  $406.2 
Less current portion  (27.9)  (25.7)
Long-term defined benefit pension liability  412.6   380.5 
Retiree medical and other postemployment benefits  184.2   193.3 
Deferred compensation plans  177.2   185.4 
Other  20.6   39.8 
  $794.6  $799.0 

Upon completion of the companys analysis during the third quarter of 2007, the tax provision was further reduced by $17.2 million related to the overall impact of a tax loss pertaining to the company’s Canadian operations. This benefit was offset by an additional income tax accrual of $7 million under FIN 48 to adjust the income tax liability to reflect the final settlement in the quarter with the Internal Revenue Service for interest deductions on incurred loans from a company-owned life insurance plan. The total accrual for the settlement for the applicable prior years 2000-2004 under examination and unaudited years 2005 through 2007 year-to-date was $18.4 million, including interest. The settlement resulted in a majority of the interest deductions being sustained with prospective application that results in no significant impact to future earnings per share or cash flows.  The accrual for uncertain tax positions was $56.8 million at September 30, 2007, of which approximately $8.6 million represents potential interest expense. No penalties have been accrued.

The third quarter ended October 1, 2006, included a discrete period tax benefit of $6.4 million related to the settlement of various tax matters.

13.
Employee Benefit Obligations

 
($ in millions)
 
September 30,
2007
  
December 31,
2006
 
       
Total defined benefit pension liability $
515.9
  $
510.6
 
Less current portion  (26.6)  (24.1)
Long-term defined benefit pension liability  
489.3
   
486.5
 
Retiree medical and other postemployment benefits  
202.6
   
191.1
 
Deferred compensation plans  
153.0
   
144.0
 
Other  
12.9
   
26.1
 
  $
857.8
  $
847.7
 

Page 14


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

13.
Employee Benefit Obligations (continued)

Components of net periodic benefit cost associated with the company’s defined benefit pension plans were:

 Three Months Ended  Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2007  October 1, 2006  March 30, 2008  April 1, 2007 
($ in millions)
 U.S.  Foreign  Total  U.S.  Foreign  Total  U.S.  Foreign  Total  U.S.  Foreign  Total 
                                    
Service cost $10.3  $ 2.3  $12.6  $6.4  $2.3  $  8.7  $10.7  $2.3  $13.0  $10.1  $2.2  $12.3 
Interest cost 11.8  7.7  19.5  12.3  6.9  19.2  12.7  8.6  21.3  11.7  7.3  19.0 
Expected return on plan assets (13.7) (4.7) (18.4) (13.8) (4.1) (17.9) (16.0) (4.8) (20.8) (13.6) (4.4) (18.0)
Amortization of prior service cost 0.3  (0.2) 0.1  0.3  (0.1) 0.2  0.3  (0.1) 0.2  0.1  (0.1)  
Recognized net actuarial loss  3.3   1.3   4.6   4.3   0.9   5.2   2.6   1.0   3.6   3.4   1.2   4.6 
Subtotal 12.0  6.4  18.4  9.5  5.9  15.4  10.3  7.0  17.3   11.7  6.2  17.9 
Non-company sponsored plans  0.3      0.3   0.3      0.3   0.3      0.3   0.3      0.3 
Net periodic benefit cost $12.3  $6.4  $18.7  $ 9.8  $5.9  $15.7  $10.6  $7.0  $17.6  $12.0  $6.2  $18.2 


  Nine Months Ended 
  September 30, 2007  October 1, 2006 
($ in millions)
 U.S.  Foreign  Total  U.S.  Foreign  Total 
                   
Service cost $30.7  $6.6  $37.3  $20.7  $6.7  $27.4 
Interest cost  35.3   22.5   57.8   34.2   20.3   54.5 
Expected return on plan assets  (40.9)  (13.6)  (54.5)  (37.9)  (11.9)  (49.8)
Amortization of prior service cost  0.7   (0.4)  0.3   2.8   (0.2)  2.6 
Recognized net actuarial loss  10.1   3.6   13.7   14.1   2.5   16.6 
Subtotal  35.9   18.7   54.6   33.9   17.4   51.3 
Non-company sponsored plans  0.9   0.1   1.0   0.8      0.8 
Net periodic benefit cost $36.8  $18.8  $55.6  $34.7  $17.4  $52.1 


Contributions to the company’s defined global benefit pension plans, not including the unfunded German plans, were $58.9$6.3 million in the first ninethree months of 2007 ($58.6 million in 2006).2008. The total minimum required contributions to these funded plans are expected to be approximately $57$47 million in 2007. As part of the company’s overall debt reduction plan, we anticipate contributing up to an incremental $45 million ($27 million after tax) over the minimum required contributions to our North American pension plans during the fourth quarter of 2007. 2008. Payments to participants in the unfunded German plans were €13.2€4.5 million ($17.86.7 million) in the first ninethree months of 20072008 and are expected to be approximately €19€18 million (approximately $26$28 million) for the full year.

In accordance with new United Kingdom pension regulations, Ball has provided an £8 million guarantee to its defined benefit plan in the United Kingdom. If the company’s credit rating falls below specified levels, Ball will be required to either: (1) contribute an additional £8 million to the plan; (2) provide a letter of credit to the plan in that amount or (3) if imposed by the appropriate regulatory agency, provide a lien on company assets in that amount for the benefit of the plan. The guarantee can be removed upon approval by both Ball and the pension plan trustees.

Page 1511


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries


13.       Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Earnings

14.
Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Earnings
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) include the cumulative effect of foreign currency translation, pension and other postretirement items and realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivative instruments receiving cash flow hedge accounting treatment.

($ in millions)
 
Foreign
Currency
Translation
  
Effective
Financial
Derivatives(a)
(net of tax)
  
Pension and Other Postretirement Items
(net of tax)
  
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Earnings (Loss)
  
Foreign
Currency
Translation
  
Pension and Other Postretirement Items
(net of tax)
  
Effective
Financial
Derivatives(a)
(net of tax)
  
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Earnings
 
                        
December 31, 2006 $131.8  $0.6  $(161.9) $(29.5)
December 31, 2007 $221.8  $(104.0) $(10.9) $106.9 
Change  56.2   (1.6)  7.0   61.6   86.3   2.0   41.2   129.5 
September 30, 2007 $188.0  $(1.0) $(154.9) $32.1 
March 30, 2008 $308.1  $(102.0) $30.3  $236.4 

(a)
Refer to Item 3, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk,” for a discussion of the company’s use of derivative financial instruments.

Comprehensive Earnings

  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
($ in millions)
 September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
  September 30, 2007  
October 1,
2006
 
             
Net earnings $60.9  $107.1  $248.0  $281.3 
Foreign currency translation adjustment  39.4   (2.2)  56.2   28.5 
Effect of derivative instruments  (14.4)  2.7   (1.6)  3.2 
Pension and other postretirement items  1.5      7.0   11.5 
Comprehensive earnings $87.4  $107.6  $309.6  $324.5 


Page 16


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries
  Three Months Ended 
 ($ in millions) March 30, 2008  April 1, 2007 
       
Net earnings $83.8  $81.2 
Foreign currency translation adjustment  86.3   7.8 
Pension and other postretirement items  2.0   2.7 
Effect of derivative instruments  41.2   4.1 
Comprehensive earnings $213.3  $95.8 

14.
Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Earnings (continued)

Stock-Based Compensation Programs

The company has shareholder-approved stock option plans under which options to purchase shares of Ball common stock have been granted to officers and employees at the market value of the stock at the date of grant. Payment must be made at the time of exercise in cash or with shares of stock owned by the option holder, which are valued at fair market value on the date exercised. In general, options are exercisable in four equal installments commencing one year from the date of grant and terminate 10 years from the date of grant. A summary of stock option activity for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, follows:

 Outstanding Options  Nonvested Options 
 
Number of Shares
  
Weighted Average Exercise
Price
  
Number of Shares
  
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
  Outstanding Options  Nonvested Options 
             Number of Shares  
Weighted Average Exercise
Price
  Number of Shares  Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 
Beginning of year 4,852,978  $26.69  1,286,937  $10.27  4,747,005  $32.06  1,664,980  $10.88 
Granted 949,200  49.32  949,200  11.22 
Vested         (497,857) 9.98             
Exercised (847,653) 21.00          (47,593) 18.84         
Canceled/forfeited  (40,400)  42.70   (40,400)  10.54   (16,400)  43.28   (16,200)  10.70 
End of period  4,914,125   31.91   1,697,880   10.88   4,683,012   32.16   1,648,780   10.88 
                                
Vested and exercisable, end of period  3,216,245   24.38           3,034,232   24.52         
Reserved for future grants  4,784,331               4,777,777             

Page 12

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

The options granted in April 2007 included 402,168 stock-settled stock appreciation rights, which have the same terms as the stock options. 13.       Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Earnings (continued)
The weighted average remaining contractual term for all options outstanding at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, was 6.46 years and the aggregate intrinsic value (difference in exercise price and closing price at that date) was $107.3$60.8 million. The weighted average remaining contractual term for options vested and exercisable at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, was 54.6 years and the aggregate intrinsic value was $94.5$62.6 million. The company received $3.1$0.9 million from options exercised during the three months ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.2008. The intrinsic value associated with these exercises was $4.7$1.2 million, and the associated tax benefit of $1.6$0.4 million was reported as other financing activities in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows. During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the company received $17.8 million from options exercised. The intrinsic value associated with exercises for that period was $24.9 million and the associated tax benefit reported as other financing activities was $8.3 million.

Based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model, adapted for use in valuing compensatory stock options in accordance with SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), options granted in April 2007 have an estimated weighted average fair value at the date of grant of $11.22 per share. The actual value an employee may realize will depend on the excess of the stock price over the exercise price on the date the option is exercised. Consequently, there is no assurance that the value realized by an employee will be at or near the value estimated. The fair values were estimated using the following weighted average assumptions:

Expected dividend yield0.81%
Expected stock price volatility17.94%
Risk-free interest rate4.55%
Expected life of options4.75 years
Forfeiture rate12.00%


Page 17


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

14.
Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Earnings (continued)

In addition to stock options, the company issuesmay issue to officers and certain employees restricted shares and restricted stock units, which vest over various periods but, other than the performance-contingent grants discussed below, generally in equal installments over five years. Compensation cost is recorded based upon the fair value of the shares at the grant date.

To encourage certain senior management employees and outside directors to invest in Ball stock, Ball adopted a deposit share program in March 2001 (subsequently amended and restated)restated in April 2004) that matches purchased shares with restricted shares. In general, restrictions on the matching shares lapse at the end of four years from date of grant, or earlier in stages if established share ownership guidelines are met, assuming the relevant qualifying purchased shares are not sold or transferred prior to that time. Grants under the plan are accounted for as equity awards and compensation expense is recorded based upon the fair value of the shares at the grant date.

In April 2007 the company’s board of directors granted 170,000 performance-contingent restricted stock units to key employees, which will cliff vest if the company’s return on average invested capital during a 33-month performance period is equal to or exceeds the company’s estimated cost of capital. If the performance goal is not met, the shares will be forfeited. Current assumptions are that the performance targets will be met and, accordingly, grants under the plan are being accounted for as equity awards and compensation expense is recorded based upon the fair value (closing market price) of the shares at the grant date. On a quarterly basis, the company reassesses the probability of the goal being met and adjusts compensation expense as appropriate. No such adjustment was considered necessary at the end of the thirdfirst quarter 2007.2008.

For the three and nine months ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, the company recognized in selling, general and administrative expenses pretax expense of $4.5$4.2 million ($2.82.6 million after tax) and $21.9 million ($13.3 million after tax), respectively, for share-based compensation arrangements, which represented $0.03 per basic and diluted share for the third quarter of 2007 and $0.13 per basic and diluted share for the first nine months.share. For the three and nine months ended OctoberApril 1, 2006,2007, the company recognized pretax expense of $2.8$3.1 million ($1.7 million after tax) and $10.1 million ($6.11.9 million after tax) for such arrangements, which represented $0.02 per basic and diluted share and $0.06 per basic and diluted share, respectively, for those periods.share. At SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, there was $34.9$28.5 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements. This cost is expected to be recognized in earnings over a weighted-averageweighted average period of 2.72.4 years.

Stock Repurchase Agreements

15.
Earnings per Share
Through the first quarter of 2008, we repurchased $125 million of our common stock, net of issuances, including a $31 million settlement on January 7, 2008, of a forward contract entered into in December 2007 for the repurchase of 675,000 shares.

Ball’s first quarter 2008 net share repurchases also included the preliminary settlement of an accelerated share repurchase agreement entered into in December 2007 to buy $100 million of the company’s common shares. Ball advanced the $100 million on January 7, 2008, and received approximately 2 million shares, which represented 90 percent of the total shares as calculated using the previous day’s closing price. The exact number of shares to be repurchased under the agreement, which will be determined on the settlement date (no later than June 5, 2008), is subject to an adjustment based on a weighted average price calculation for the period between the initial purchase date and the settlement date. The company has the option to settle the contract in either cash or shares.
  Three Months Ended  Nine Months Ended 
($ in millions, except per share amounts; shares in thousands)
 
September 30,
2007
  
October 1,
2006
  
September 30,
2007
  
October 1,
2006
 
             
Diluted Earnings per Share:
            
Net earnings $
60.9
  $
107.1
  $
248.0
  $
281.3
 
                 
Weighted average common shares  101,422   103,292   101,691   103,397 
Effect of dilutive securities  1,575   1,609   1,681   1,727 
Weighted average shares applicable to diluted earnings per share  
102,997
   
104,901
   
103,372
   
105,124
 
                 
Diluted earnings per share $
0.59
  $
1.02
  $
2.40
  $
2.68
 

Page 1813


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

14.    Earnings Per Share

  Three Months Ended 
($ in millions, except per share amounts; shares in thousands) March 30,  April 1, 
  2008  2007 
Diluted Earnings per Share:      
Net earnings $83.8  $81.2 
         
Weighted average common shares  97,199   102,110 
Effect of dilutive securities  1,390   1,705 
Weighted average shares applicable to diluted earnings per share  98,589   103,815 
         
Diluted earnings per share $0.85  $0.78 

Information needed to compute basic earnings per share is provided in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings.

15.
Earnings per Share (continued)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following outstanding options were excluded fromBall adopted SFAS No. 157 effective January 1, 2008, for financial assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis. As discussed in Note 1, SFAS No. 157 establishes a framework for measuring value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. Although it does not require any new fair value measurements, the diluted earnings per share calculation since they were anti-dilutive (i.e.,statement emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and should be determined based on the sumassumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. As defined in SFAS No. 157, fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). However, it permits a mid-market pricing convention (the mid-point price between bid and ask prices) as a practical expedient. SFAS No. 157 requires that the fair value of a liability include the proceeds, includingnonperformance risk (including entity’s credit risk and other risks such as settlement risk) related to the unrecognized compensation, exceeded the average closing stock price for the period):

  Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Option Price: 
September 30,
2007
 
October 1,
2006
 
September 30,
2007
 
October 1,
2006
         
$ 39.74  − 694,600  –  –
$ 43.69  − 901,200  89,250  901,200
$ 49.32 944,600  − 944,600  –
  944,600 1,595,800 1,033,850  901,200
liability being measured.
 
The statement establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value using the following definitions (from highest to lowest priority):

●  Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. Level 1 primarily consists of financial instruments, such as exchange-traded derivatives and listed equity securities.

16.
●  Level 2 – Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 2 includes those financial instruments that are valued using models or other valuation methodologies. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including quoted forward prices for commodities, time value, volatility factors and current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments. Substantially all of these assumptions are observable in the marketplace throughout the full term of the instrument, can be derived from observable data or are supported by observable levels at which transactions are executed in the marketplace. Instruments in this category include non-exchange-traded derivatives, such as over-the-counter forwards and options.

●  Level 3 – Prices or valuation techniques requiring inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).


Page 14


Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

15.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Subsequent Events(continued)
The following table summarizes by level within the fair value hierarchy the company’s financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 30, 2008. The company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels.

($ in millions) Level 1  Level 2  Total 
          
Assets:         
Current commodity derivatives (a)
 $  $68.7  $68.7 
Noncurrent commodity derivatives (b)
     58.5   58.5 
Nonmonetary exchanges (c)
     23.9   23.9 
Other assets     6.0   6.0 
Total assets $  $157.1  $157.1 
             
Liabilities:            
Current commodity derivatives (d)
 $  $49.5  $49.5 
Noncurrent commodity derivatives (e)
     37.6   37.6 
Deferred compensation liabilities (f)
  109.2   68.0   177.2 
Other liabilities     6.5   6.5 
Total liabilities $109.2  $161.6  $270.8 

(a)  Amounts are included in the consolidated balance sheet within deferred taxes and other current assets.
(b)  Amounts are included in the consolidated balance sheet within intangibles and others assets, net.
(c)  Amounts are included in the consolidated balance sheet within receivables, net.
(d)  
Amounts are included in the consolidated balance sheet within other current liabilities.
(e)  Amounts are included in the consolidated balance sheet within deferred taxes and other liabilities.
(f)  See Note 12.

The company has not identified any Level 3 items at March 30, 2008. The fair value of the company’s pension assets will be evaluated under SFAS No. 157 as of December 31, 2008, as part of the year-end valuation of the company’s pension benefit obligations.
The company uses closing spot and forward market prices as published by the London Metal Exchange, Reuters and Bloomberg to determine the fair value of its aluminum, currency and interest rate spot and forward contracts. Option contracts are valued using a Black Scholes model with observable market inputs for aluminum, currency and interest rates. The company additionally evaluates counterparty creditworthiness to determine if any adjustment to fair value is needed, and since the company’s financial derivatives are traded in highly liquid markets, no illiquidity reserve is taken against the determined fair value.

For the three months ended March 30, 2008, the company recorded a net pretax loss of $2.6 million for the changes in the fair value of its derivative instruments, the majority of which is expected to reverse in future periods.

As permitted, the company’s long-term debt is not carried in the company’s financial statements at fair value. The fair value of the long-term debt was estimated at $2,596.2 million as of March 30, 2008, as compared to its carrying value of $2,585.8 million. Rates currently available to the company for loans with similar terms and maturities are used to estimate the fair value of long-term debt based on cash flows.


Page 15

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

16.Subsequent Event

On October 24, 2007, BallApril 23, 2008, the company announced plans to close a U.S. metal beverage packaging plant in Kent, Washington. The plant operates two, 12-ounce aluminum beverage can manufacturing facilities andlines that produce approximately 1.1 billion cans annually. Those lines will be redeployed to exit the custom and decorative tinplate can business locatedgenerate higher returns on those assets elsewhere in Baltimore, Maryland. Ball will close its food and household products packaging facilities in Tallapoosa, Georgia, and Commerce, California, both of which manufacture aerosol and general line cans. The two plant closures will result in a net reduction in manufacturing capacity of 10 production lines, including the relocation of two aerosol lines into existing Ball facilities. An after-taxBall's worldwide system. A pretax charge of approximately $26$12 million ($7 million after tax) will be recorded in the fourth quarter. The cash costs of these actions, which are planned to be completed in early 2009, aresecond quarter results, and the plant is expected to be offset by proceeds on asset dispositions and tax recoveries.

On October 24, 2007, Ball announcedshut down during the discontinuancethird quarter of the company’s discount on the reinvestment of dividends associated with Ball’s dividend reinvestment and voluntary stock purchase plan for non-employee shareholders. The 5 percent discount was discontinued on November 1, 2007.2008.

17.
Contingencies

The company is subject to various risks and uncertainties in the ordinary course of business due, in part, to the competitive nature of the industries in which the company participates. We do business in countries outside the U.S., have changing commodity prices for the materials used in the manufacture of our packaging products and participate in changing capital markets. Where management considers it warranted, we reduce these risks and uncertainties through the establishment of risk management policies and procedures, including, at times, the use of certain derivative financial instruments.

From time to time, the company is subject to routine litigation incidentalincident to its businesses, as well as regulatory audits and investigations.businesses. Additionally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designated Ball as a potentially responsible party, along with numerous other companies, for the cleanup of several hazardous waste sites.

Our information at this time does not indicate that the abovethese matters will have a material adverse effect upon the liquidity, results of operations or financial condition of the company.

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation18.    Indemnifications and Subsidiaries
Guarantees
 
18.
Indemnifications and Guarantees

During the normal course of business, the company or its appropriate consolidated direct or indirect subsidiaries have made certain indemnities, commitments and guarantees under which the specified entity may be required to make payments in relation to certain transactions. These indemnities, commitments and guarantees include indemnities to the customers of the subsidiaries in connection with the sales of their packaging and aerospace products and services; guarantees to suppliers of direct or indirect subsidiaries of the company guaranteeing the performance of the respective entity under a purchase agreement;agreement, construction contract or other commitment; guarantees in respect of certain foreign subsidiaries’ pension plans; indemnities for liabilities associated with the infringement of third party patents, trademarks or copyrights under various types of agreements; indemnities to various lessors in connection with facility, equipment, furniture and other personal property leases for certain claims arising from such leases; indemnities to governmental agencies in connection with the issuance of a permit or license to the company or a subsidiary; indemnities pursuant to agreements relating to certain joint ventures; indemnities in connection with the sale of businesses or substantially all of the assets and specified liabilities of businesses; and indemnities to directors, officers and employees of the company to the extent permitted under the laws of the State of Indiana and the United States of America. The duration of these indemnities, commitments and guarantees varies, and in certain cases, is indefinite. In addition, the majority of these indemnities, commitments and guarantees do not provide for any limitation on the maximum potential future payments the company could be obligated to make. As such, the company is unable to reasonably estimate its potential exposure under these items.

The company has not recorded any liability for these indemnities, commitments and guarantees in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. The company does, however, accrue for payments under promissory notes and other evidences of incurred indebtedness and for losses for any known contingent liability, including those that may arise from indemnifications, commitments and guarantees, when future payment is both reasonably determinable and probable. Finally, the company carries specific and general liability insurance policies and has obtained indemnities, commitments and guarantees from third party purchasers, sellers and other contracting parties, which the company believes would, in certain circumstances, provide recourse to any claims arising from these indemnifications, commitments and guarantees.

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Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries

18.    Indemnifications and Guarantees (continued)
The company’s senior notes and senior credit facilities are guaranteed on a full, unconditional and joint and several basis by certain of the company’s wholly owned domestic subsidiaries. Foreign tranches of the senior credit facilities are similarly guaranteed by certain of the company’s wholly owned foreign subsidiaries. These guarantees are required in support of the notes and credit facilities referred to above, are co-terminous with the terms of the respective note indentures and credit agreement and would require performance upon certain events of default referred to in the respective guarantees. The maximum potential amounts which could be required to be paid under the guarantees are essentially equal to the then outstanding principal and interest under the respective notes and credit agreement, or under the applicable tranche. The company is not in default under the above notes or credit facilities.

Ball Capital Corp. II is a separate, wholly owned corporate entity created for the purchase of receivables from certain of the company’s wholly owned subsidiaries. Ball Capital Corp. II’s assets will be available first to satisfy the claims of its creditors. The company has provided an undertaking to Ball Capital Corp. II in support of the sale of receivables to a commercial lender or lenders whichwho would require performance upon certain events of default referred to in the undertaking. The maximum potential amount which could be paid is equal to the outstanding amounts due under the accounts receivable financing (see Note 6). The company, the relevant subsidiaries and Ball Capital Corp. II are not in default under the above credit arrangement.

From time to time, the company is subject to claims arising in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, no such matter, individually or in the aggregate, exists which is expected to have a material adverse effect on the company’s consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

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Item 2.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Management’s discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. Ball Corporation and its subsidiaries are referred to collectively as “Ball” or the “company” or “we” or “our” in the following discussion and analysis.

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Ball Corporation is one of the world’s leading suppliers of metal and plastic packaging to the beverage, food and household products industries. Our packaging products are produced for a variety of end uses and are manufactured in plants around the world. WeOur wholly owned subsidiary, Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. (BATC), also supplysupplies aerospace and other technologies and services to governmental and commercial customers.

We sell our packaging products primarily to major beverage, and food producers and producers of household products companies with which we have developed long-term customer relationships. This is evidenced by our high customer retention and our large number of long-term supply contracts. While we have diversified our customer base, we do sell a majority of our packaging products to relatively few major companies in North America, Europe, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Argentina, as do our equity joint ventures in Brazil, the U.S. and the PRC. We also purchase raw materials from relatively few suppliers. Because of our customer and supplier concentration, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected by the loss of a major customer or supplier or a change in a supply agreement with a major customer or supplier, although our contracts and long-term relationships and contracts mitigate these risks.

In the rigid packaging industry, sales and earnings can be improved by reducing costs, developing new products, expanding volume and increasing pricing.prices. In 2009 we expect to complete the project to upgrade and streamline our North American beverage can end manufacturing capabilities, a project that has this year begunin 2007 began to result ingenerate productivity gains and cost reductions in the metal beverage packaging, Americas and Asia, segment.

While the U.S. and Canadian beverage container manufacturing industry is relatively mature, the European, PRC and Brazilian beverage can markets are growing and are expected to continue to grow. We are capitalizing on this growth by increasing capacity in some of our European can manufacturing facilities.facilities by speeding up certain lines and by expansion. We recently announced expansion plans with our intention to build a beverage can manufacturing plant in India, as well as a new plant in Poland, to meet the rapidly growing demand for beverage cans there and in central and eastern Europe.  To better position the company in the European market, the capacity from the fire-damaged Hassloch, Germany, plant was replaced with a mix of steel beverage can manufacturing capacity in the Hassloch plant and aluminum beverage can manufacturing capacity in the company’s Hermsdorf, Germany, plant. All three lines were in commercial production by the end of the second quarter of 2007. Additionally, the company has announced plans for speeding up lines in Europe and isWe are also considering additional can and end manufacturing capacity there as well. The company regularly evaluates expansion opportunities in growing international markets, including existing and developing markets in Europe and in the PRC,PRC. Additionally, we recently announced a new one-line metal beverage can plant in our Brazil joint venture and other parts ofare adding further 16-ounce can capacity in another Brazil can plant. These Brazil expansion efforts will be owned by Ball’s unconsolidated 50-percent owned joint venture, Latapack-Ball Embalagens, Ltda., with the world.financing anticipated to be funded by cash flows from the joint venture.

As part of our packaging strategy, we are focused on developing and marketing new and existing products that meet the needs of our customers and the ultimate consumer. These innovations include new shapes, sizes, opening features and other functional benefits of both metal and plastic packaging. This packaging development activity helps us maintain and expand our supply positions with major beverage, food and household products customers. As part of this focus, we plan to installare installing a new 24-ounce beverage can production line in our Monticello, Indiana, facilityfacility. The line is expected to be operational in time for 2008 summer sales.mid-2008. We are also developing a portfolio of new products including Alumi-TekTM, vented end, recloseable end and gamma clear items, among others.

Ball’s consolidated earnings are exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations. We attempt to mitigate this exposure through the use of derivative financial instruments, as discussed in “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” within Item 3 of this report.

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The primary customers for the products and services provided by our aerospace and technologies segment are U.S. government agencies or their prime contractors. It is possible that federal budget reductions and priorities, or changes in agency budgets, could limit future funding and new contract awards or delay or prolong contract performance.

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We recognize sales under long-term contracts in the aerospace and technologies segment using the cost-to-cost, percentage of completion method of accounting. Our present contract mix consists of approximately two-thirds70 percent cost-type contracts, which are billed at our costs plus an agreed upon and/or earned profit component, and approximately one-thirdwhile the remainder are fixed price contracts. We include time and material contracts in the fixed price category because such contracts typically provide for the sale of engineering labor at fixed hourly rates. The segment’s failureFailure to be awarded certain key contracts could adversely affect its performance during 2008 compared to 2007.segment performance.

Throughout the period of contract performance, we regularly reevaluate and, if necessary, revise our estimates of BATC’s total contract revenue, total contract cost and progress toward completion. Because of contract payment schedules, limitations on funding and other contract terms, our sales and accounts receivable for this segment include amounts that have been earned but not yet billed.

Management uses various measures to evaluate company performance. The primary financial metric we use is economic value added (tax-effected operating earnings, as defined by the company, less a charge for net operating assets employed). Our goal is to increase economic value added on an annual basis. Other financial metrics we use are earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT); earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA); diluted earnings per share; operating cash flow and free cash flow (generally defined by the company as cash flow from operating activities less capital expenditures). These financial measures may be adjusted at times for items that affect comparability between periods. Nonfinancial measures in the packaging segments include production efficiency and spoilage rates, quality control figures, environmental, health and safety statistics and production and shipment volumes. Additional measures used to evaluate performance in the aerospace and technologies segment include contract revenue realization, award and incentive fees realized, proposal win rates and backlog (including awarded, contracted and funded backlog).

We recognize that attracting, developing and retaining qualityhighly talented employees isare essential to the success of Ball and, because of this, we strive to pay employees competitively and encourage their ownership of the company’s common stock as part of a diversified portfolio. For most management employees, a meaningful portion of compensation is at risk as an incentive, dependent upon economic value addedvalue-added operating performance. For more senior positions, more compensation is at risk.risk through economic value-added performance and various stock compensation plans. Through our employee stock purchase plan and 401(k) plan, which matches employee contributions with Ball common stock, employees, regardless of organizational level, have opportunities to own Ball stock.

CONSOLIDATED SALES AND EARNINGS

The company has five reportable segments organized along a combination of product lines and geographic areas:  (1) metal beverage packaging, Americas;Americas and Asia; (2) metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia;Europe; (3) metal food and household products packaging, Americas; (4) plastic packaging, Americas; and (5) aerospace and technologies. Due to first quarter 2008 management reporting changes, Ball’s PRC operations are now included in the metal beverage packaging, Americas and Asia, segment. The 2007 segment information has been retrospectively adjusted to conform to the current year presentation. We also have investments in companies in the U.S., the PRC and Brazil, which are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and, accordingly, those results are not included in segment sales or earnings.

During the fourth quarter of 2006, the company changed its method of inventory accounting for certain inventories in the metal beverage, Americas, and the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segments from the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method to the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Effective January 1, 2007,a plastic pail product line with expected annual net sales of $59 million was transferred from the metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment to the plastic packaging, Americas, segment. The three months and nine months ended October 1, 2006, have been retrospectively adjusted to conform to the current presentation for the FIFO inventory accounting method and the transfer of the plastic pail product line.

Metal Beverage Packaging, Americas and Asia

The metal beverage packaging, Americas and Asia, segment consists of operations located in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico and the PRC, which manufacture metal container products used in beverage packaging. During the second quarter of 2007, Miller Brewing Company (Miller), a U.S. customer, asserted various claims against a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, primarily related to the pricing of the aluminum component of thepackaging, as well as non-beverage plastic containers supplied to Miller.  On October 4, 2007, the dispute was settled in mediation. Ball will continue to supply all of Millers beverage canmanufactured and end business through 2015 and Miller will receive $85.6 million ($51.8 million after tax), with approximately $70 million to be paidsold mainly in the first quarter of 2008. The remainder of the third quarter accrual will be recovered over the life of the contract. Segment sales and earnings were reduced by the $85.6 million charge.

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Including the reduction of net sales resulting from the customer settlement, thisPRC. This segment accounted for 3441 percent of consolidated net sales in the third quarterfirst three months of 2007 (362008 (41 percent in 2006) and 37 percent in the first nine months (40 percent in 2006)2007). Sales in 2008 were 5 percent higher in the first nine months ofessentially flat compared to 2007 than in 2006 as a result of higher sales prices which werein 2008, primarily due to rising aluminum prices, and the pass through of various cost increases to customers.  These favorable factors were offset by an overall decrease in volumes of more than 4 percent. The decrease in North American sales volumes was somewhat offset by a 6 percent sales volume increase in the customer settlement which hadPRC. Lower first quarter sales volumes in North America were caused in part by the effectloss of decreasing sales by 4 percentcertain 12-ounce beer can business that the company decided not to continue.

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First quarter segment earnings of $74 million were lower than first quarter 2007 earnings of $101.9 million primarily due to approximately $43 million of raw material inventory gains realized in 2007 as compared to 2006.

Including the effect of the customer settlement, the segment had a loss of $20.6 millionnot recurring in the third2008. First quarter of 2007, compared to third quarter 2006 earnings of $73 million. Earnings of $155.8 million in the first nine months of 2007 were 19 percent lower than the prior year earnings of $193.5 million for the same period. Excluding the $85.6 million settlement,2008 earnings were $241.4 million, or 25 percentfavorably impacted by higher than in the prior year. Third quarter 2007 comparable segment earnings were lower due tosales prices and improved sales mix claimstotaling approximately $9 million and certain higher costs compared to third quarter 2006. Contributing to the higher segment earnings, before the settlement, in the first nine months of 2007 were gains from purchases of raw materials in advance of scheduled price increases, lower manufacturing costs due to thepositive cost impacts from the new end technology project, improved production efficienciesprojects and reduced energy costs.other cost saving measures totaling approximately $6 million.

We continue to focus efforts on the growing custom beverage can business, which includes cans of different shapes, diameters and fill volumes, as well asand cans with added functional attributes (such as recloseability) for new products and product line extensions.

Subsequent Event

On April 23, 2008, the company announced plans to close a U.S. metal beverage packaging plant in Kent, Washington. The plant operates two, 12-ounce aluminum beverage can manufacturing lines that produce approximately 1.1 billion cans annually. Those lines will be redeployed to generate higher returns on those assets elsewhere in Ball's worldwide system. A pretax charge of approximately $12 million ($7 million after tax) will be recorded in the second quarter results, and the plant is expected to cease production during the third quarter of 2008. On final disposition of the plant and equipment, the closure is expected to be approximately $4 million cash positive inclusive of income tax benefits.

Metal Beverage Packaging, Europe/AsiaEurope

The metal beverage packaging, Europe/Asia,Europe, segment includes metal beverage packaging products manufactured and sold mainly in Europe and Asia, as well as plastic containers manufactured and sold in Asia.Europe. This segment accounted for 2723 percent of consolidated net sales in the third quarterfirst three months of 2007 and 262008 (19 percent in the first nine months (23 percent in the respective periods in 2006)2007). Segment sales in the thirdfirst quarter and first nine months of 20072008 were 23 percent and 2526 percent higher respectively, compared to the same periodsperiod of the prior year due largely to strong demand,13 percent higher volumes consistent with overall market growth higher sales volumes, higher pricing and 13 percent related to foreign currency gains on the strength of the euro. Higher segment sales volumes were aided by overall market dynamics in Europe and the PRC that favor beverage cans, as well as growth in Europe of custom can volumes. Offsetting these favorable trends was colder and wetter than normal summer weather in many partsvolumes, including the successful introduction of Europe.the Ball sleek can into Italy. The slow return of the metal beverage can to the German market, following the mandatory deposit legislation previously reported on, is being augmented by stronger demand outside Germany.

Segment earnings were $81 million in the third quarter of 2007 and $218.5$48 million in the first ninethree months of 2008 compared to $66 million and $235.7$36.8 million for the same periodsperiod in 2006, respectively. The third quarter2007. Earnings in 2008 were approximately $39 million higher due to the combination of increased sales volumes and first nine months of 2006 included $2.8price recovery initiatives, as well as $4 million and $76.9 million, respectively, of property insurance gains related to the fire at the company’s Hassloch, Germany, metal beverage can plant (further details are provided below). Earnings in 2007 were favorably impacted by increased sales volumes; price recovery initiatives; a stronger euro; and manufacturing and selling, general and administrative cost control programs.euro. These improvements were partially offset by $34 million of higher raw material, freight and energy costs.

On April 1, 2006, a fire in the metal beverage can plant in Hassloch, Germany, damaged a significant portion of the building and machinery and equipment. A €26.7 million ($33.8 million) fixed asset write down was recorded in 2006 to reflect the estimated impairment of the assets damaged as a result of the fire. As a result, pretax gains of €58.4 million ($74.1 million) and €2.2 million ($2.8 million) were recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings in the second and third quarters of 2006, respectively. The total pretax gain was revised to €59.6 million ($75.5 million) by the end of 2006. In accordance with the final agreement reached with the insurance company in November 2006, the final property insurance proceeds of €37.6 million ($48.6 million) were received in January 2007. Additionally, €5.1€8.3 million ($710.9 million) and €26.2 million ($35.1 million) werewas recognized as reductionsin the first quarter of cost of sales during the third quarter and first nine months of 2007 respectively, for insurance recoveries related to business interruption costs. A total of €0.8 million of additional business interruption recoveries has been agreed upon withcosts and is contemplated in the insurance carrier and will be recognized during the fourth quarter of 2007.
earnings improvement discussed above.
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Metal Food & Household Products Packaging, Americas

The metal food and household products packaging, Americas, segment consists of operations located in the U.S., Canada and Argentina. The company acquired U.S. Can Corporation (U.S. Can) on March 27, 2006, and with that acquisition, added to its metal food can businesssegment includes the productionmanufacture and sale of metal cans used for food packaging, aerosol cans, paint cans and decorative specialty cans. Effective January 1, 2007, responsibility for a plastic pail product line was transferred to the plastic packaging, Americas, segment. Accordingly, 2006 segment amounts have been retrospectively adjusted to reflect the transfer.

Segment sales which comprised 18in the first quarter of 2008 constituted 15 percent of consolidated net sales (17 percent in 2007). First quarter 2008 sales were 5 percent lower than in the thirdfirst quarter of 2007 (20 percent in 2006)due to lower preseason shipments to seasonal customers and 16 percentdecisions by management to discontinue unprofitable business, resulting in the first nine months (17 percent in 2006), were 5 percent below the thirdclosure of our Commerce, California, and Tallapoosa, Georgia, facilities.


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First quarter of 2006 and 7 percent above the first nine months. The decrease in the third quarter was due to lost business that impacted third quarter 2007 sales volumes along with customer operating issues, including a fire in a customer’s factory, and unfavorable weather conditions in the Midwest. The increase in the first nine months was due to the inclusion of sales from the acquisition of U.S. Can, partially offset by the unfavorable factors discussed above.

Segmentsegment earnings were $14.5$14.8 million in the third quarter of 2007 compared to $19.7 million in the third quartera loss of 2006, and $25.4 million in the first nine months of 2007 compared to $25.5$0.2 million in the same period in 2006.last year. The decrease in earningsperformance in the thirdfirst quarter of 2008 was primarily related to lower manufacturing costs and efficiencies in the first quarter of 2008 attributable to ongoing integration efforts related to the closure of Ball’s Burlington, Ontario, manufacturing facility in the fourth quarter of 2006. First quarter 2008 earnings also reflect improved pricing and manufacturing performance, partially offset by lower sales volumes as customers worked off higher 2007 year end finished goods inventories.

The company announced in the fourth quarter of 2007 was due to lower sales volumes, forthat by the reasons discussed above,end of 2008 it would close metal food and increased raw material costs. The flat earningshousehold products packaging plants in the first nine months of 2007 compared to the first nine months of 2006 was due to increased raw material costs, offset by improved manufacturing performance in 2007Commerce, California, and higher cost of sales in the second quarter of 2006 due to inventory step-up costs relating to the U.S. Can acquisition. The first nine months of 2006 included a net pretax charge of $1.7 million ($1.2 million after tax), primarily related to the shut down of a food can manufacturing line in Whitby, Ontario.

Tallapoosa, Georgia. Additional details regarding business consolidation activities are available in Note 5 accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report.

Plastic Packaging, Americas

The plastic packaging, Americas, segment consists of operations located in the U.S. and Canada, which manufacture polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene plastic container products used mainly in beverage and food packaging, as well as high density polyethylene and polypropylene containers for industrial and household product applications. On March 28, 2006, Ball acquired certain North American plastic bottle container assets from Alcan Packaging (Alcan), including two plastic container manufacturing plants in the U.S. and one in Canada, as well as certain manufacturing equipment and other assets from other Alcan facilities. Effective January 1, 2007, the plastic packaging, Americas, segment assumed responsibility for plastic pail assets acquired as part of the U.S. Can acquisition. Accordingly, 2006 segment amounts have been retrospectively adjusted to reflect the transfer.

Segment sales, which accounted for 1011 percent of consolidated net sales in both the thirdfirst quarter and first nine months of 20072008 (11 percent and 10 percent for the comparable periods in 2006)2007), were down 3 percentup $2.3 million compared to the third quartersame period in 2007. The increase was primarily the result of 2006, and 11 percent higher thanraw material cost increases passed through, which accounted for approximately $20 million of the first nine months of 2006. The segment salesincrease. This increase in the first nine months of 2007net sales was related to the March 2006 Alcan acquisition and the inclusion of the acquired U.S. Can plastic pail business, as well as higher PEToffset by 5 percent lower bottle sales volumes and prices compareddue to 2006. The segment salesa decrease in the third quarter of 2007 was attributable to lowercarbonated soft drink and water bottle volumes,sales, partially offset by higher prices on existingsales in specialty business linesmarkets (e.g., custom hot-fill, alcohol, food and juice drinks) and decreased preform sales due to Ball's decision to forego certain low margin business. 

Segment earnings of $4.8 million in the first three months of 2008 were higher than prior year earnings of $2.3 million largely due to the pass through of resin cost increases. previously mentioned increase in specialty business sales partially offset by the lower carbonated soft drink, water and preform sales volumes.

In view of the substandard performance of our PET business,margins, we continue to focus our efforts on margin recovery initiatives, as well as PET development efforts in the custom hot-fill, beer, wine, flavored alcoholic beverage and specialty container markets. In the polypropylene plastic container area,arena, development efforts are primarily focused on custom packaging markets.

Segment earnings of $7.7million in the third quarter of 2007Aerospace and $17.1 million in the first nine months were lower than 2006 earnings of $7.9 million and $18.3 million for the same periods, respectively. The lower earnings were largely due to lower margins related to the temporary idling of PET bottle production capacity attributable to lower-than-expected custom PET sales volumes and higher labor and depreciation costs.

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Aerospace & Technologies

Aerospace and technologies segment sales, which represented 10 percent of consolidated net sales in the thirdfirst quarter of 2007 (92008 (12 percent in 2006) and 112007), were 14 percent lower than in the first nine months (10 percent in 2006), were 15 percent higher in the third quarter of 2007 than in 20062007. The reduction is the result of a combination of large programs winding down and 18 percent higher in the first nine months. The higher sales for both periods wereprogram terminations and delays due to government funding constraints. The reductions were partially offset by new programs,program starts and increased scope on previously awarded contractscontracts.

On February 15, 2008, BATC completed the sale of its shares in Ball Solutions Group Pty Ltd (BSG) to QinetiQ Pty Ltd for approximately $10.5 million, including cash sold of $1.8 million. BSG was previously a wholly owned Australian subsidiary of BATC that provided services to the Australian department of defense and cost overruns.related government agencies. After an adjustment for working capital items, the sale resulted in a pretax gain of $7.1 million ($4.4 million after tax). Segment earnings were $18.3 million in the third quarter of 2007 compared to $15.6 million in 2006 and $53.5$22 million in the first ninethree months of 2008 included this gain. On a comparable basis, segment earnings were $14.9 million compared to $33.4$19.6 million for the same period in 2006. Earnings improvement through2007. Excluding the third quartergain on sale, earnings were lower in 2008 than in 2007 as a result of 2007 was due to an improved contract mixthe lower sales and bettera number of nonrecurring favorable program execution.profit adjustments in 2007.

Contracted backlog in the aerospace and technologies segment at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, was $882$727 million compared to a backlog of $886$774 million at December 31, 2006.2007. Comparisons of backlog are not necessarily indicative of the trend of future operations.

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Additional Segment Information

For additional information on our segment operations, see the Summary of Business by Segment Information in Note 3 accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report.

Subsequent Event

On October 24, 2007, Ball announced plans to close two manufacturing facilities and to exit the custom and decorative tinplate can business located in Baltimore, Maryland. Ball will close its food and household products packaging facilities in Tallapoosa, Georgia, and Commerce, California, both of which manufacture aerosol and general line cans. The two plant closures will result in a net reduction in manufacturing capacity of 10 production lines, including the relocation of two aerosol lines into existing Ball facilities. An after-tax charge of approximately $26 million will be recorded in the fourth quarter and, once completed in early 2009, these actions are expected to yield annualized pretax cost savings in excess of $15 million. The cash costs of these actions are expected to be offset by proceeds on asset dispositions and tax recoveries.

Selling, General and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $84.3$81.6 million in the thirdfirst quarter of 20072008 compared to $66.5$82.2 million for the same period in 2006 and $253.8 million in the first nine months of 2007 compared to $210.3 million in the first nine months of 2006. Contributing to higher expenses in 2007 compared to 2006 were $4.5 million of additional SG&A from the U.S. Can acquisition, expense of $9.6 million associated with the mark-to-market adjustment of a deferred stock incentive compensation plan, higher2007. Lower research and development costs increased salesof $4 million and marketing efforts and normalother miscellaneous net cost reductions in 2008 were partially offset by $1 million of higher stock-based compensation and benefit increases, including incentive compensation. Also, a $5.8$2 million out-of-period adjustment was includedincrease in SG&A expenses in the first quarter of 2006 (discussed in further detail in Note 1 accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report).bad debt expense.

Interest and Taxes

Consolidated interest expense was $36.2 million for the third quarterfirst three months of 20072008 compared to $37.2$37.9 million forin the same period of 2006 and $112.2 million for the first nine months of 2007 compared to $98.1 million for the same period in 2006.2007. The higherreduced expense in 20072008 was primarily due to higher average borrowings in connection with the company’s acquisitions in March 2006, as well as higher foreign exchange rates andlower interest rates on foreign currency borrowings in Europe, partially offset by the reduced debt levels in the third quarter of 2007 compared to the third quarter of 2006.rates.

The consolidatedWhile the effective income tax rate was 26.5approximately 32 percent for the first nine monthsquarters of both 2008 and 2007, compared to 29.7 percent for the same period in 2006. The lower rate in 20072008 was primarilyfavorably impacted by the result of a tax benefit recorded at the marginal rate on the legal settlement of a customer claim and net tax benefit adjustments of $17.2 million recordedearnings mix increasing in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to $6.4 million in 2006. The $17.2 million third quarter net reduction in the tax provision was a result of enacted income tax rate reductions inlower taxed jurisdictions, including Germany and the United Kingdom, and a tax loss related to the company’s Canadian operations. These benefits werewhich had enacted rate reductions effective January 1, 2008. This was somewhat offset by a decrease in U.S. foreign tax provision to adjust forcredit utilization and the final settlement negotiations concluded inU.S. research and development credit expiring at the quarter with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
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related to a company-owned life insurance plan (discussed below). Without the above reduction in the benefit in the third quarterend of 2007, the effective tax rate for 2007 would be higher than 2006 due to the following: (1) the impact of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. (FIN) 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes,” which the company adopted as of January 1, 2007; (2) lower projected tax credits in 2007; (3) the expiration in 2007 of the extraterritorial income exclusion for exporters and (4) a shift in the pretax income mix to higher tax jurisdictions.

The company concluded final settlement negotiations with the IRS on the deductibility of interest expense on incurred loans from a company-owned life insurance plan. An additional accrual of $7 million was made in the quarter under FIN 48 to adjust the accrued liability to the final settlement of $18.4 million, including interest, for the years 2000-2004, which were under examination, and for the unaudited years 2005-2007 (year-to-date). This settlement included agreement on the prospective treatment of interest deductibility on the policy loans, which will not have a significant impact on earnings per share, cash flow or liquidity in future periods.
Further details are available in Note 12 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements within Item 1 of this report.2007.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

For information regarding recent accounting pronouncements, see Note 2 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements within Item 1 of this report.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash provided by operating activities and external borrowings. We believe that cash flows from operations and cash provided by short-term and revolver borrowings, when necessary, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing operating requirements, scheduled principal and interest payments on debt, dividend payments and anticipated capital expenditures. However, our liquidity could be impacted significantly by a decrease in demand for our products, which could arise from competitive circumstances, or any of the other factors described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” within the company’s annual report.

Cash flows provided byused in operations were $405.2$214.6 million in the first ninethree months of 20072008 compared to $116.1$107.7 million in the first ninethree months of 2006.2007. The improvement over 2006reduction in 2008 was primarily due to higher net earnings before the approximately $70 million payment in January of a legal settlement to a customer, as well as a higher increase in 2007 andseasonal inventories, partially offset by an increase in the insurance gain in 2006 related to the Hassloch fire. The improvement in 2007 was also the result of reduced changes in working capital components and lower income tax payments.accounts receivable sales program.

Based on information currently available, we estimate 20072008 capital spending to be approximately $300$350 million net of property insurance recoveries, compared to 2006 net2007 capital spending of $218.3 million.$259.9 million (net of $48.6 million in insurance recoveries). Approximately 75 percent of the total capital spending will be in the metal beverage can segments and more than 50 percent of the total spending will be for new top-line growth projects. The 2008 capital spending projection includes the effects of foreign currency exchange rates as many of our capital projects will occur in Europe.

Interest-bearing debt decreasedincreased to $2,398.3$2,759.6 million at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, compared to $2,451.7$2,358.6 million at December 31, 2006,2007, primarily due to improved cash flows from operations, partially offset byseasonal working capital needs, higher common stock repurchases higher capital spending and a higher euro.euro exchange rate. We intend to allocate our operating cash flow in the balance of 20072008 to capital spending programs, common stock repurchases and pension funding.dividends. Our stock repurchase program, net of issuances, is expected to be approximately $200in the range of $300 million in 20072008 compared to $45.7$211.3 million in 2006.2007. Through the first nine monthsquarter of 2007,2008, we repurchased $155.1$125 million of our common stock, net of issuances, including the $51.9a $31 million settlement inon January 20077, 2008, of a forward contract commencedentered into in December 2006.2007 for the repurchase of 675,000 shares.


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Ball’s first quarter 2008 net share repurchases also included the preliminary settlement of an accelerated share repurchase agreement entered into in December 2007 to buy $100 million of the company’s common shares. Ball advanced the $100 million on January 7, 2008, and received approximately 2 million shares, which represented 90 percent of the total shares as calculated using the previous day’s closing price. The exact number of shares to be repurchased under the agreement, which will be determined on the settlement date (no later than June 5, 2008), is subject to an adjustment based on a weighted average price calculation for the period between the initial purchase date and the settlement date. The company has the option to settle the contract in either cash or shares.

Total required contributions to the company’s defined benefit plans, not including the unfunded German plans, are expected to be approximately $57$47 million in 2007. As part of the company’s overall debt reduction plan, we anticipate contributing up to an incremental $45 million ($27 million after tax) over the minimum required contributions to our North American pension plans during the fourth quarter of 2007. We expect these incremental contributions to bring the North American pension plans’ funding to the 95 percent level.2008. This estimate may change based on plan asset performance, the revaluation of the plans’ liabilities later in 20072008 and revised estimates of 20072008 full-year cash flows. Payments to participants in the unfunded German plans are expected to be approximately €19€18 million (approximately $28 million) for the full year (approximately $26 million).year.

At SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, approximately $683$465 million was available under the company’s multi-currency revolving credit facilities. In addition, the company had short-term uncommitted credit facilities of up to $342$337 million at the end of the thirdfirst quarter, of which $36.4$173.8 million was outstanding and due on demand.outstanding.

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The company has a receivables sales agreement that provides for the ongoing, revolving sale of a designated pool of trade accounts receivable of Ball’s North American packaging operations, up to $250 million (increased from $225 million in August 2007).million. The agreement qualifies as off-balance sheet financing under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 140, as amended by SFAS No. 156. Net funds received from the sale of the accounts receivable totaled $170$238 million at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and $201.3$170 million at December 31, 2006,2007, and are reflected as a reduction of accounts receivable in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

The company was in compliance with all loan agreements at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and has met all debt payment obligations. Additional details about the company’s debt and receivables sales agreement are available in Notes 11 and 6, respectively, accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report.

In accordance with new United Kingdom pension regulations, Ball has provided an £8 million guarantee to the plan for its defined benefit plan in the United Kingdom. If the company’s credit rating falls below specified levels, Ball will be required to either: (1) contribute an additional £8 million to the plan; (2) provide a letter of credit to the plan in that amount or (3) if imposed by the appropriate regulatory agency, provide a lien on company assets in that amount for the benefit of the plan. The guarantee can be removed upon approval by both Ball and the pension plan trustees.
CONTINGENCIES, INDEMNIFICATIONS AND GUARANTEES

Details about the company’s contingencies, indemnifications and guarantees are available in Notes 17 and 18 accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report.

Item 3.   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

In the ordinary course of business, we employ established risk management policies and procedures to reduce our exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices, interest rates, foreign currencies and prices of the company’s common stock in regard to common share repurchases. Although the instruments utilized involve varying degrees of credit, market and interest risk, the counterparties to the agreements are expected to perform fully under the terms of the agreements.

We have estimated our market risk exposure using sensitivity analysis. Market risk exposure has been defined as the changes in fair value of derivative instruments, financial instruments and commodity positions. To test the sensitivity of our market risk exposure, we have estimated the changes in fair value of market risk sensitive instruments assuming a hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in market prices or rates. The results of the sensitivity analysis are summarized below.


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Commodity Price Risk

We manage our North American commodity price risk in connection with market price fluctuations of aluminum primarily by entering into can and can endcontainer sales contracts which generallythat include aluminum-based pricing terms that considergenerally reflect price fluctuations under our commercial supply contracts for aluminum purchases. SuchThe terms may include a fixed, pricefloating or an upper limit to thepass-through aluminum component of pricing, although fixed prices or upper limits have been used much less frequently in recent years given the significant increase in aluminum ingot prices.pricing. This matched pricing affects substantially all of our North American metal beverage packaging Americas, net sales. We also, at times, use certain derivative instruments such as option and forward contracts as cash flow and fair value hedges to matchof commodity price risk withwhere there is not a pass-through arrangement in the sales contracts.contract.

Most of the plastic packaging, Americas, sales contracts negotiated through the end of the third quarter include provisions to fully pass through resin cost changes. As a result, we believe we have minimal exposure related to changes in the cost of plastic resin. Many of ourMost metal food and household products packaging, Americas, sales contracts negotiated through the end of the third quarter either include provisions permitting us to pass through some or all steel cost changes we incur, or they incorporate annually negotiated steel costs. In 2008 and in 2007, we were able to pass through to our customers the majority of steel cost increases. We anticipate that we will be able to pass through the majority of the steel price increases that occur throughover the end of 2007 and into 2008.next twelve months.

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In Europe and Asia,the PRC, the company manages the aluminum and steel raw material commodity price risks through annual and long-term contracts for the purchase of the materials, as well as certain sales contracts,of containers, that reduce the companyscompany's exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices within the current year. These purchase and sales contracts include fixed price, floating and pass-through pricing arrangements. To minimize Ball’s exposure to significant price changes, the companyWe also usesuse forward and option contracts as cash flow hedges to manage future aluminum price risk and foreign exchange exposures for those sales contracts where there is not a pass-through arrangement.arrangement to minimize the company’s exposure to significant price changes.

OutstandingThe company had aluminum contracts hedging its aluminum exposure with notional amounts of approximately $1 billion at March 30, 2008, and December 31, 2007. The aluminum contracts include cash flow and fair value hedges that offset sales contracts of various terms and lengths, as well as other derivative contracts atinstruments for which the end of the third quarter of 2007company elects mark-to-market accounting. Cash flow and fair value hedges related to forecasted transactions and firm commitments expire within fivethe next four years. Included in shareholders’ equity at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, within accumulated other comprehensive earnings, is approximately $6.3a net after-tax gain of $28 million of net loss associated with these contracts, of which $7.1a net gain of $14 million of net loss is expected to be recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings during the next 12twelve months. Gains and/or lossesThe net gain on these derivative contracts will be offsetpassed through to customers by higher and/or lower costs on metal purchases.revenue from sales contracts. Additional details about the company’s unsettled commodity derivative contracts are available in Note 15 accompanying the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included within Item 1 of this report.

Considering the effects of derivative instruments, the company’s ability to pass through certain raw material costs through contractual provisions, the market’s ability to accept price increases and the company’s commodity price exposures under its contract terms, a hypothetical 10 percent adverse change in the company’s steel, aluminum and resin prices could result in an estimated $14.1$8 million after-tax reduction ofin net earnings over a one-year period. Additionally, if foreign currency exchange rates were to change adversely by 10 percent, we estimate there could be an $11.6a $14 million after-tax reduction ofin net earnings over a one-year period for foreign currency exposures on metal.raw materials, the majority of which would occur from a weakening of the Chinese renminbi versus the U.S. dollar.  Actual results may vary based on actual changes in market prices and rates.

The company is also exposed to fluctuations in prices for energy such as natural gas and electricity, as well as the cost of diesel fuel as a component of freight cost. A hypothetical 10 percent increase in our utilitynatural gas and electricity prices, without considering such pass through provisions, could result in an estimated $10.1$11 million after-tax reduction of net earnings over a one-year period. A hypothetical 10 percent increase in our diesel fuel surchargeprices could result in an estimated $2.1$2 million after-tax reduction of net earnings over the same period. Actual results may vary based on actual changes in market prices and rates.


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Interest Rate Risk

Our objectivesobjective in managing our exposure to interest rate changes areis to limitminimize the effectimpact of suchinterest rate changes on earnings and cash flows and to lower our overall borrowing costs. To achieve these objectives, we use a variety of interest rate swaps, collars and options to manage our mix of floating and fixed-rate debt. Interest rate instruments held by the company at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, included pay-fixed interest rate swaps.swaps and interest rate collars. Pay-fixed swaps effectively convert variable rate obligations to fixed rate instruments. SwapCollars create an upper and lower threshold within which interest rates will fluctuate.

At March 30, 2008, the company had outstanding interest rate swap agreements expire at various times within the next four years. Included in shareholders’ equity at September 30, 2007, withinEurope with notional amounts of €135 million paying fixed rates. Approximately $3 million of a net after-tax gain associated with these contracts is included in accumulated other comprehensive earnings is approximately $5.4 million of net gains associated with these contracts,at March 30, 2008, of which $1.4$1 million of net earnings is expected to be recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings during the next 12twelve months. At March 30, 2008, the company had outstanding interest rate collars in the U.S. totaling $150 million. The value of these contracts in accumulated other comprehensive earnings at March 30, 2008, was a loss of approximately $0.8 million. Approximately $1.5$1 million of net gain related to the termination or deselection of hedges is included in the above accumulated other comprehensive earnings at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.2008. The amount recognized in 20072008 earnings related to terminated hedges iswas insignificant.

We also use European inflation option contracts as a proxy hedge to limit the impacts from spikes in inflation against certain multi-year contracts. At March 30, 2008, the company had inflation options in Europe with notional amounts of €115 million. The company uses mark-to-market accounting for these options, and the fair value at March 30, 2008, was €0.8 million. The contracts expire within the next five years.

Based on our interest rate exposure at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, assumed floating rate debt levels throughthroughout 2008 and the third quarterfirst three months of 20082009 and the effects of derivative instruments, a 100 basis100-basis point increase in interest rates could result in an estimated $6.9$8 million after-tax reduction ofin net earnings over a one-year period. Actual results may vary based on actual changes in market prices and rates and the timing of these changes.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

Our objective in managing exposure to foreign currency fluctuations is to protect foreign cash flows and earnings from changes associated with foreign currency exchange rate changes through the use of cash flow hedges. In addition, we manage foreign earnings translation volatility through the use of various foreign currency options.option strategies, and the change in the fair value of those options is recorded in the company’s quarterly earnings. Our foreign currency translation risk results from the European euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, Polish zloty, Chinese renminbi, Brazilian real, Argentine peso and Serbian dinar. We face currency exposures in our global operations as a result of purchasing raw materials in U.S. dollars and, to a lesser extent, in other currencies. Sales contracts are negotiated with customers to reflect cost changes and, where there is not a foreign exchange pass-through arrangement, the company uses forward and option contracts to manage foreign currency exposures. ContractsWe additionally use various option strategies to manage the earnings translation of the company’s European operations into U.S. dollars. Such contracts outstanding at the end of the third quarter 2007March 30, 2008, expire within five years. At September 30, 2007, there were nofour years, and the amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive earnings forrelated to these items.contracts were insignificant.

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Considering the company’s derivative financial instruments outstanding at SeptemberMarch 30, 2007,2008, and the currency exposures, a hypothetical 10 percent reduction (U.S. dollar strengthening) in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the U.S. dollar could result in an estimated $22.3$27 million after-tax reduction ofin net earnings over a one-year period. This amount includes the $11.6$14 million currency exposure discussed above in the “Commodity Price Risk” section. While thisThis hypothetical adverse change in foreign currency exchange rates compared to the U.S. dollar would reduce net earnings, it would also reduce third quarter outstandingour forecasted average debt balancesbalance by $84$100 million. This reduction would be recorded on the balance sheet in foreign currency translation adjustment within shareholders’ equity. Actual changes in market prices or rates may differ from hypothetical changes.


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Common Share Repurchases

On December 3, 2007, Ball entered into a forward repurchase agreement for the purchase of 675,000 shares of its common stock. This agreement was settled for $31 million on January 7, 2008, and the shares were delivered that day. On December 12, 2007, we also entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement for approximately $100 million. The agreement provided for the delivery of approximately 2 million shares, which represented 90 percent of the total estimated shares to ultimately be delivered. The $100 million was paid on January 7, 2008, at the time the shares were delivered. The remaining shares and average price per share will be determined at the conclusion of the contract, which is expected to occur no later than June 5, 2008.

Item 4.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Our chief executive officer and chief financial officer participated in management’s evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as of the end of the period covered by this report and concluded that our controls and procedures were effective.

During the quarter, there were no changes in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting. The company acquired certain operations of U.S. Can on March 27, 2006, and certain assets of Alcan on March 28, 2006. (Additional details are available in Note 4 to the condensed consolidated financial statements within Item 1 of this report.) The company is continuing to integrate the acquired U.S. Can and Alcan operations within its system of internal controls over financial reporting. Pursuant to rules promulgated under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the controls for these acquired operations are required to be evaluated and tested by the end of 2007.


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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT

The company has made or implied certain forward-looking statements in this report which are made as of the end of the time frame covered by this report. These forward-looking statements represent the company’s goals, and results could vary materially from those expressed or implied. From time to time we also provide oral or written forward-looking statements in other materials we release to the public. As time passes, the relevance and accuracy of forward-looking statements may change. Some factors that could cause the company’s actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: fluctuation in customer and consumer growth, demand and preferences; loss of one or more major customers or changes to contracts with one or more customers; insufficient production capacity; overcapacity in foreign and domestic metal and plastic container industry production facilities and its impact on pricing; failure to achieve anticipated productivity improvements or production cost reductions, including those associated with capital expenditures such as our beverage can end project; changes in climate and weather; fruit, vegetable and fishing yields; power and natural resource costs; difficulty in obtaining supplies and energy, such as gas and electric power; availability and cost of raw materials, as well as the recent significant increases in resin, steel, aluminum and energy costs, and the ability or inability to include or pass on to customers changes in raw material costs; changes in the pricing of the company’s products and services; competition in pricing and the possible decrease in, or loss of, sales resulting therefrom; insufficient or reduced cash flow; transportation costs; the number and timing of the purchases of the company’s common shares; regulatory action or federal and state legislation including mandated corporate governance and financial reporting laws; the effects of the German mandatory deposit or other restrictive packaging legislation such as recycling laws; interest rates affecting our debt; labor strikes; increases and trends in various employee benefits and labor costs, including pension, medical and health care costs; rates of return projected and earned on assets and discount rates used to measure future obligations and expenses of the company’s defined benefit retirement plans; boycotts; antitrust, intellectual property, consumer and other litigation; maintenance and capital expenditures; goodwill impairment; changes in generally accepted accounting principles or their interpretation; accounting changes; local economic conditions; the authorization, funding, availability and returns of contracts for the aerospace and technologies segment and the nature and continuation of those contracts and related services provided thereunder; delays, extensions and technical uncertainties, as well as schedules of performance associated with such segment contracts; international business and market risks such as the devaluation or revaluation of certain currencies and the activities of foreign subsidiaries; international business risks (including foreign exchange rates and activities of foreign subsidiaries) in Europe and particularly in developing countries such as the PRC Brazil and Argentina;Brazil; changes in the foreign exchange rates of the U.S. dollar against the European euro, British pound, Polish zloty, Serbian dinar, Hong Kong dollar, Canadian dollar, Chinese renminbi, Brazilian real and Argentine peso, and in the foreign exchange rate of the European euro against the British pound, Polish zloty, Serbian dinar and Serbian dinar;Indian rupee; terrorist activity or war that disrupts the company’s production or supply; regulatory action or laws including tax, environmental, health and workplace safety;safety, including in respect of chemicals or substances used in raw materials or in the manufacturing process; technological developments and innovations; successful or unsuccessful acquisitions, joint ventures or divestitures and the integration activities associated therewith; changes to unaudited results due to statutory audits of our financial statements or management’s evaluation of the company’s internal controls over financial reporting; and loss contingencies related to income and other tax matters, including those arising from audits performed by U.S. and foreign tax authorities. If the company is unable to achieve its goals, then the company’s actual performance could vary materially from those goals expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. The company currently does not intend to publicly update forward-looking statements except as it deems necessary in quarterly or annual earnings reports. You are advised, however, to consult any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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PART II.   OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.
Legal Proceedings

As previouslyThere were no events required to be reported in the company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated Augustunder Item 1 2007, during the second quarter of 2007, Miller Brewing Company (Miller) asserted various claims against Ball Metal Beverage Container Corp. (BMBCC), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, alleging that BMBCC breached its contract with Miller for the supply of aluminum beverage containers. BMBCC disputed the claims and asserted that it had performed in accordance with the supply contract. As previously reported, BMBCC and Miller settled their dispute on October 4, 2007. The settlement terms include the payment by BMBCC to Miller of approximately $70 million in the first quarter of 2008 and minor adjustments to the provisions of BMBCC’s supply arrangements with Miller. The overall settlement resulted in a third quarter charge to the company of $85.6 million ($51.8 million after tax). BMBCC will continue to supply all of Miller’s beverage can and end requirements through 2015.

As previously reported, on October 6, 2005, BMBCC was served with an amended complaint filed by Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. et. al. (Crown), in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, Western Division at Dayton, Ohio. The complaint alleges that the manufacture, sale and use of certain ends by BMBCC and its customers infringes upon certain claims of Crown’s U.S. patents. The complaint seeks unspecified monetary damages, fees and declaratory and injunctive relief. BMBCC has formally denied the allegations of the complaint. A new trial date has been set for December 4, 2007, although it is likely that the trial date will be rescheduled and moved intoended March 30, 2008.

The company is investigating potential violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in Argentina, which came to our attention on or about October 15, 2007. Based on our investigation to date, we do not believe this matter involved senior management or management or other employees who have significant roles in internal control over financial reporting.

Based on the information available to the company at the present time, the company does not believe that the above ongoing legal proceedings and investigation will have a material adverse effect upon the liquidity, results of operations or financial condition of the company.

Item 1A.
Risk Factors

Risk factors affecting the company can be found within Item 1A of the company’s annual report on Form 10-K.

Page 31Item 2.   Changes in Securities


Item 2.
Changes in Securities
The following table summarizes the company’s repurchases of its common stock during the quarter ended September March 30, 2007.2008.

 
Purchases of SecuritiesPurchases of Securities Purchases of Securities 
($ in millions)
 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
  
Average Price
Paid per Share
  
Total Number
of Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
  
Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs (b)
  
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
  
Average Price
Paid per Share
  
Total Number
of Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
  
Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs(b)
 
                        
July 2 to August 5, 2007 557  $52.28  557  7,216,165 
August 6 to September 2, 2007 936,308  50.95  936,308  6,279,857 
September 3 to September 30, 2007  
669,741
   
53.28
   
669,741
   
5,610,116
 
January 1 to February 3, 2008 2,039,533  $49.05  2,039,533  11,999,198 
February 4 to March 2, 2008 10,072  $45.06  10,072  11,989,126 
March 3 to March 30, 2008           11,989,126 
Total  1,606,606(a)  51.92   1,606,606       2,049,605(a) $49.03   2,049,605     

(a)
Includes open market purchases and/or shares retained by the company to settle employee withholding tax liabilities.  The period from August 6 to September 2, 2007, also includes the return of 123,941 shares to Ball following certain diversification transactions within the companys deferred compensation stock plan.
(b)
The company has an ongoing repurchase program for which shares are authorized from time to time by Ball’s board of directors.
On January 23, 2008, Ball's board of directors authorized the repurchase by the company of up to a total of 12 million shares of its common stock. This repurchase authorization replaced all previous authorizations.


Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities

There were no events required to be reported under Item 3 for the quarter ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.2008.

Item 4.
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

There were no events required to be reported under Item 4 for the quarter ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.2008.

Item 5.
Item 5.   Other Information

There were no events required to be reported under Item 5 for the quarter ended SeptemberMarch 30, 2007.2008.


 
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Item 6.
Exhibits
 

Item 6.   Exhibits

20Subsidiary Guarantees of Debt
  
31Certifications pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), by R. David Hoover, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ball Corporation and by Raymond J. Seabrook, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ball Corporation
  
32Certifications pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, by R. David Hoover, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ball Corporation and by Raymond J. Seabrook, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ball Corporation
  
99Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended

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SIGNATURE


Pursuant to the requirements 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.

Ball Corporation 
(Registrant) 
   
   
By:/s/ Raymond J. Seabrook 
 Raymond J. Seabrook 
 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 
   
   
Date:NovemberMay 7, 20072008 

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Ball Corporation and Subsidiaries
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
SeptemberMarch 30, 20072008


EXHIBIT INDEX


Description
Exhibit
  
Subsidiary Guarantees of Debt (Filed herewith.)EX-20
  
Certifications pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), by R. David Hoover, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ball Corporation and by Raymond J. Seabrook, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ball Corporation (Filed herewith.)EX-31
  
Certifications pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, by R. David Hoover, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ball Corporation and by Raymond J. Seabrook, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Ball Corporation (Furnished herewith.)
EX-32
  
Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended (Filed herewith.)EX-99


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