UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

OR

 

TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from                             to                             .

 

Commission file number: 000-04957

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

73-0750007

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

5402 South 122nd East Ave, Tulsa, Oklahoma

74146

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code (918) 622-4522

 

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

 

Common Stock, $.20 par value

EDUC

NASDAQ

(Title of class)

(Trading symbol)

(Name of each exchange on which registered)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports 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 ☒   No ☐

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 229.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).

 

Yes ☒   No ☐

 

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

 

Large accelerated filer ☐

Accelerated filer ☐

 

 

 

 

Non-accelerated filer ☒

Smaller reporting company ☒

 

 

 

 

 

Emerging Growth Company ☐

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

Yes ☐   No ☒

 

As of July 5,October 9, 2023, there were 8,575,0888,571,088 shares of Educational Development Corporation Common Stock, $0.20 par value outstanding.

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements (unaudited)

5

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

1721

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

2531

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

2531

 

 

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

2632

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

2632

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

2632

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

2632

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures

2632

Item 5.

Other Information

2632

Item 6.

Exhibits

2733

Signatures

2834

 

 

 

 

CAUTIONARY REMARKS REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

The information discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as may, expect, estimate, project, plan, believe, intend, achievable, anticipate, continue, potential, should, could, and similar terms and phrases. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve certain assumptions, risks and uncertainties and we can give no assurance that such expectations or assumptions will be achieved. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to,

 

 

our success in recruiting and retaining new brand partners (formerly consultants),

 

our ability to locate and procure desired books,

 

product and supplier concentrations,

 

our relationship with our primary supplier and the related distribution requirements and contractual limitations,

 

adverse publicity associated with our Company or the industry,

 

our ability to ship timely,

 

changes to our primary sales channels, including social media and party plan platforms,

 

changing consumer preferences and demands,

 

legal matters,

 

reliance on information technology infrastructure,

 

restrictions imposed by covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness,

 

our ability to obtain adequate financing for working capital and capital expenditures,

 

economic and competitive conditions, regulatory changes and other uncertainties,

 

outstanding impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as

 

those factors discussed below and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended February 28, 2023 and in this Quarterly Report on Form 10Q, all of which are difficult to predict.

 

In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed may not occur. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements in this paragraph and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Other than as required under the securities laws, we do not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or circumstances, changes in expectations or otherwise. As used in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the terms the Company, EDC, we, our or us mean Educational Development Corporation, a Delaware corporation, unless the context indicates otherwise.

 

4

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

 

 

May 31,

  

February 28,

  

August 31,

  

February 28,

 

ASSETS

 

2023

  

2023

  

2023

  

2023

 

CURRENT ASSETS

                

Cash and cash equivalents

 $876,100  $689,100  $1,480,900  $689,100 

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of

$134,000 (May 31) and $211,700 (February 28)

  2,688,900   2,906,700 

Inventories - net

  56,344,000   59,086,500 

Restricted cash

  1,077,800   - 

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of

$146,000 (August 31) and $211,700 (February 28)

  1,990,600   2,906,700 

Inventories – net

  53,682,200   59,086,500 

Prepaid expenses and other assets

  806,700   869,300   862,300   869,300 

Assets held for sale

  811,800   - 

Total current assets

  60,715,700   63,551,600   59,905,600   63,551,600 
                

LONG-TERM INVENTORIES - net

  5,980,500   4,719,600   8,189,300   4,719,600 

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - net

  29,258,100   29,656,400   27,998,000   29,656,400 

DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSET

  1,126,500   796,800   1,799,300   796,800 

OTHER ASSETS

  1,173,800   1,212,400   1,068,800   1,212,400 

TOTAL ASSETS

 $98,254,600  $99,936,800  $98,961,000  $99,936,800 
                

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

                

CURRENT LIABILITIES

                

Accounts payable

 $4,631,000  $3,863,900  $4,977,100  $3,863,900 

Line of credit

  10,959,200   10,634,500   9,723,100   10,634,500 

Deferred revenues

  970,500   602,700   689,600   602,700 

Current maturities of term debt

  34,456,100   34,894,900   1,800,000   34,894,900 

Accrued salaries and commissions

  850,200   828,200   765,000   828,200 

Income taxes payable

  1,041,600   - 

Other current liabilities

  1,997,400   3,294,000   2,249,000   3,294,000 

Total current liabilities

  53,864,400   54,118,200   21,245,400   54,118,200 
                
        

LONG-TERM DEBT – net

  32,217,300   - 

OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

  498,900   586,800   414,600   586,800 

Total liabilities

  54,363,300   54,705,000   53,877,300   54,705,000 
                

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

                

Common stock, $0.20 par value; Authorized 16,000,000 shares;

Issued 12,702,080 (May 31 and February 28) shares;

Outstanding 8,575,088 (May 31) and 8,713,289 (February 28) shares

  2,540,400   2,540,400 

Common stock, $0.20 par value; Authorized 16,000,000 shares;

Issued 12,702,080 (August 31 and February 28) shares;

Outstanding 8,571,088 (August 31) and 8,713,289 (February 28) shares

  2,540,400   2,540,400 

Capital in excess of par value

  13,289,600   13,193,400   13,369,200   13,193,400 

Retained earnings

  41,147,400   42,020,200   42,209,100   42,020,200 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

  51,100   - 
  56,977,400   57,754,000   58,169,800   57,754,000 

Less treasury stock, at cost

  (13,086,100

)

  (12,522,200

)

  (13,086,100

)

  (12,522,200

)

Total shareholders' equity

  43,891,300   45,231,800   45,083,700   45,231,800 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

 $98,254,600  $99,936,800  $98,961,000  $99,936,800 

 

See notes to condensed financial statements (unaudited).

 

5

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

 

 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

GROSS SALES

 $20,586,600  $31,338,200  $15,372,800  $27,769,500  $35,959,400  $59,107,700 

Less discounts and allowances

  (7,071,300

)

  (10,085,200

)

  (5,521,200

)

  (9,908,100

)

  (12,592,500

)

  (19,993,300

)

Transportation revenue

  1,008,700   1,907,900   741,500   1,556,900   1,750,200   3,464,800 

NET REVENUES

  14,524,000   23,160,900   10,593,100   19,418,300   25,117,100   42,579,200 

COST OF GOODS SOLD

  5,150,400   7,851,500   3,684,300   6,939,700   8,834,700   14,791,300 

Gross margin

  9,373,600   15,309,400   6,908,800   12,478,600   16,282,400   27,787,900 
                        

OPERATING EXPENSES

                        

Operating and selling

  2,397,900   3,770,600   1,916,000   3,798,800   4,313,900   7,569,400 

Sales commissions

  4,199,800   6,871,800   3,520,300   5,635,700   7,720,100   12,507,500 

General and administrative

  3,634,500   4,384,300   3,529,100   4,017,600   7,163,600   8,401,900 

Total operating expenses

  10,232,200   15,026,700   8,965,400   13,452,100   19,197,600   28,478,800 
                        
                        

INTEREST EXPENSE

  733,400   388,100   743,300   528,100   1,476,700   916,200 

OTHER INCOME

  (391,400

)

  (390,700

)

  (4,252,800

)

  (396,000

)

  (4,644,200

)

  (786,700

)

                        

EARNINGS (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

  (1,200,600

)

  285,300   1,452,900   (1,105,600

)

  252,300   (820,400)
                        

INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT)

  (327,800

)

  69,500   391,200   (303,700

)

  63,400   (234,300

)

NET EARNINGS (LOSS)

 $(872,800

)

 $215,800  $1,061,700  $(801,900

)

 $188,900  $(586,100

)

                        

BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

                        

Basic

 $(0.11

)

 $0.03  $0.13  $(0.10

)

 $0.02  $(0.07

)

Diluted

 $(0.11

)

 $0.03  $0.13  $(0.10

)

 $0.02  $(0.07

)

                        

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON AND EQUIVALENT SHARES OUTSTANDING

                        

Basic

  8,278,049   8,086,427   8,269,771   8,081,807   8,273,910   8,084,117 

Diluted

  8,278,049   8,473,610   8,269,771   8,081,807   8,283,221   8,084,117 

Dividends per share

 $-  $-  $-  $-  $-  $- 

 

See notes to condensed financial statements (unaudited).

 

6

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGESINSHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITYCOMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)

FORTHE THREE MONTHSENDEDMAY 31, 2023

 

  

Common Stock

(par value $0.20 per share)

          

Treasury Stock

     
  

Number of

Shares

Issued

  

Amount

  

Capital in

Excess of

Par Value

  

Retained

Earnings

  

Number

of

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shareholders'

Equity

 
                             

BALANCE – February 28, 2023

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $13,193,400  $42,020,200   3,988,791  $(12,522,200

)

 $45,231,800 

Purchases of treasury stock

  -   -   -   -   138,201   (563,900

)

  (563,900

)

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   96,200   -   -   -   96,200 

Net loss

  -   -   -   (872,800)  -   -   (872,800

)

BALANCE - May 31, 2023

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $13,289,600  $41,147,400   4,126,992  $(13,086,100

)

 $43,891,300 

FORTHE THREEMONTHSENDEDMAY 31, 2022

  

Common Stock

(par value $0.20 per share)

          

Treasury Stock

     
  

Number of

Shares

Issued

  

Amount

  

Capital in

Excess of

Par Value

  

Retained

Earnings

  

Number

of

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shareholders'

Equity

 
                             

BALANCE – February 28, 2022

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $12,246,600  $44,525,100   3,994,833  $(12,546,600

)

 $46,765,500 

Sales of treasury stock

  -   -   39,000   -   (7,771

)

  24,400   63,400 

Forfeiture of restricted shares

  -   -   95,700   -   16,180   (95,700

)

  - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   261,600   -   -   -   261,600 

Net earnings

  -   -   -   215,800   -   -   215,800 

BALANCE - May 31, 2022

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $12,642,900  $44,740,900   4,003,242  $(12,617,900

)

 $47,306,300 
  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Net earnings (loss)

 $1,061,700  $(801,900

)

 $188,900  $(586,100

)

Other comprehensive income:

                
Unrealized gain on interest rate exchange agreement  51,100   -   51,100   - 

Comprehensive income (loss)

 $1,112,800  $(801,900

)

 $240,000  $(586,100

)

 

See notes to condensed financial statements (unaudited).

 

7

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASHCHANGES FLOWSINSHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (UNAUDITED)

FORTHESIX MONTHSENDEDAUGUST 31, 2023

 

  

Three Months Ended

May 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

        

Net earnings (loss)

 $(872,800

)

 $215,800 

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

        

Depreciation and amortization

  683,600   599,600 

Deferred income taxes

  (329,700

)

  1,400 

Provision for inventory valuation allowance

  51,200   - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  96,200   261,600 

Changes in assets and liabilities:

        

Accounts receivable

  217,800   (204,100

)

Inventories - net

  1,430,400   3,057,800 

Prepaid expenses and other assets

  128,000   (31,400

)

Accounts payable

  767,100   (5,699,000

)

Accrued salaries and commissions and other liabilities

  (1,362,500

)

  (1,472,300

)

Deferred revenues

  367,800   1,036,400 

Income taxes payable/receivable

  -   37,200 

Total adjustments

  2,049,900   (2,412,800

)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

  1,177,100   (2,197,000

)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

        

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

  (300,900

)

  (108,800

)

Net cash used in investing activities

  (300,900

)

  (108,800

)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

        

Payments on term debt

  (450,000

)

  (614,100

)

Cash paid to acquire treasury stock

  (563,900

)

  - 

Sales of treasury stock

  -   63,400 

Net borrowings under line of credit

  324,700   4,785,400 

Dividends paid

  -   (870,700

)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  (689,200

)

  3,364,000 

NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

  187,000   1,058,200 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - BEGINNING OF PERIOD

  689,100   361,200 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - END OF PERIOD

 $876,100  $1,419,400 
         

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION

        

Cash paid for interest

 $722,200  $370,200 

Cash paid for income taxes (net of refunds)

 $8,400  $52,300 
  

Common Stock

(par value $0.20 per share)

              

Treasury Stock

     
  

Number of

Shares

Issued

  

Amount

  

Capital in

Excess of

Par Value

  

Retained

Earnings

  

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

  

Number

of

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shareholders'

Equity

 
                                 

BALANCE – February 28, 2023

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $13,193,400  $42,020,200  $-   3,988,791  $(12,522,200

)

 $45,231,800 

Purchases of treasury stock

  -   -   -   -   -   138,201   (563,900

)

  (563,900

)

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   96,200   -   -   -   -   96,200 

Net loss

  -   -   -   (872,800

)

  -   -   -   (872,800

)

BALANCE - May 31, 2023

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $13,289,600  $41,147,400  $-   4,126,992  $(13,086,100

)

 $43,891,300 

Forfeiture of restricted shares

  -   -   -   -   -   4,000   -   - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   79,600   -   -   -   -   79,600 
Unrealized gain on interest rate exchange agreement  -   -   -   -   51,100   -   -   51,100 

Net earnings

  -   -   -   1,061,700   -   -   -   1,061,700 

BALANCE - August 31, 2023

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $13,369,200  $42,209,100  $51,100   4,130,992  $(13,086,100

)

 $45,083,700 

FORTHESIXMONTHSENDEDAUGUST 31, 2022

  

Common Stock

(par value $0.20 per share)

              

Treasury Stock

     
  

Number of

Shares

Issued

  

Amount

  

Capital in

Excess of

Par Value

  

Retained

Earnings

  

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

  

Number

of

Shares

  

Amount

  

Shareholders'

Equity

 
                                 

BALANCE – February 28, 2022

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $12,246,600  $44,525,100  $-   3,994,833  $(12,546,600

)

 $46,765,500 

Sales of treasury stock

  -   -   39,000   -   -   (7,771

)

  24,400   63,400 

Forfeiture of restricted shares

  -   -   -   -   -   16,180   -   - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   261,600   -   -   -   -   261,600 

Net earnings

  -   -   -   215,800   -   -   -   215,800 

BALANCE - May 31, 2022

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $12,547,200  $44,740,900  $-   4,003,242  $(12,522,200

)

 $47,306,300 

Forfeiture of restricted shares

  -   -   -   -   -   13,549   -   - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  -   -   119,700   -   -   -   -   119,700 

Net loss

  -   -   -   (801,900

)

  -   -   -   (801,900

)

BALANCE - August 31, 2022

  12,702,080  $2,540,400  $12,666,900  $43,939,000  $-   4,016,791  $(12,522,200

)

 $46,624,100 

 

See notes to condensed financial statements (unaudited).

 

8

 

EDUCATIONALDEVELOPMENTCORPORATION

CONDENSEDSTATEMENTSOFCASHFLOWS(UNAUDITED)

  

Six Months Ended August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

        

Net earnings (loss)

 $188,900  $(586,100

)

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

        

Depreciation and amortization

  1,366,000   1,207,500 

Deferred income taxes

  (1,002,500

)

  (239,000

)

Provision for inventory valuation allowance

  105,400   - 

Share-based compensation expense - net

  175,800   381,300 

Net gain on sale of assets

  (46,500

)

  - 

Changes in assets and liabilities:

        

Accounts receivable

  916,100   (263,800

)

Inventories - net

  1,829,300   6,028,500 

Prepaid expenses and other assets

  221,600   214,200 

Accounts payable

  1,113,200   (7,970,300

)

Accrued salaries and commissions and other liabilities

  (1,280,400

)

  (2,263,200

)

Deferred revenues

  86,900   103,900 

Income taxes payable/receivable

  1,041,600   (241,900

)

Total adjustments

  4,526,500   (3,042,800

)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

  4,715,400   (3,628,900

)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

        

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

  (546,200

)

  (221,000

)

Proceeds from sale of assets

  75,700   - 

Purchases of other assets

  -   (33,000

)

Net cash used in investing activities

  (470,500

)

  (254,000

)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

        

Payments on term debt

  (900,000

)

  (25,175,900

)

Cash paid to acquire treasury stock

  (563,900

)

  - 

Proceeds from term debt

  -   36,000,000 

Sales of treasury stock

  -   63,400 

Net payments under line of credit

  (911,400

)

  (5,662,600

)

Dividends paid

  -   (870,700

)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  (2,375,300

)

  4,354,200 

NET INCREASE IN CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH

  1,869,600   471,300 

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - BEGINNING OF PERIOD

  689,100   361,200 

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH - END OF PERIOD

 $2,558,700  $832,500 
         

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION

        

Cash paid for interest - net

 $1,513,600  $838,600 

Cash paid for income taxes -net of refunds

 $24,200  $95,800 

See notes to condensed financial statements (unaudited).

9

NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 

Note 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim condensed financial information and in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements include all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the interim periods presented. Such adjustments consist only of normal recurring items, unless otherwise disclosed herein. Accordingly, the Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. However, we believe that the disclosures made are adequate to make the information not misleading. These interim Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with our audited financial statements as of and for the year ended February 28, 2023, included in our Form 10-K. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full year due to the seasonality of our product sales.

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to the first quarter fiscal year 2023 condensed statement of cash flows to conform to the classifications presented in fiscal year 2024. These reclassifications had no effect on net earnings.

 

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements

 

The preparation of the Unaudited Condensed Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in these financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Significant Accounting Policies

 

Our significant accounting policies, other than the adoption of new accounting pronouncements separately documented herein and unless otherwise disclosed, are consistent with those disclosed in Note 1 toof our audited financial statements as of and for the year ended February 28, 2023, included in our Form 10-K.

Restricted Cash

The Company considers cash to be restricted when withdrawal or general use is restricted.

Assets Held for Sale

The Company classifies long-lived assets or disposal groups to be sold as held for sale in the period in which all of the following criteria are met per ASC 360: (1) management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the asset or disposal group; (2) the asset or disposal group is available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets or disposal groups; (3) an active program to locate a buyer and other actions required to complete the plan to sell the asset or disposal group have been initiated; (4) the sale of the asset or disposal group is probable, and transfer of the asset or disposal group is expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year, except if events or circumstances beyond our control extend the period of time required to sell the asset or disposal group beyond one year; (5) the asset or disposal group is being actively marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable in relation to its current fair value; and (6) actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn.

We initially measure a long-lived asset or disposal group that is classified as held for sale at the lower of its carrying value or fair value less any costs to sell. Any loss resulting from this measurement is recognized in the period in which the held-for-sale criteria are met. Conversely, gains are not recognized on the sale of a long-lived asset or disposal group until the date of sale. We assess the fair value of a long-lived asset or disposal group less any costs to sell each reporting period it remains classified as held for sale and report any subsequent changes as an adjustment to the carrying value of the asset or disposal group, as long as the new carrying value does not exceed the carrying value of the asset at the time it was initially classified as held for sale.

10

Upon determining that a long-lived asset or disposal group meets the criteria to be classified as held for sale, the Company ceases depreciation of the asset and reports long-lived assets and/or the assets and liabilities of the disposal group, if material, in the line items assets held for sale and liabilities held for sale, respectively, in our condensed balance sheet. Refer to Note 3.

Interest Rate Swap Agreement

The interest rate swap agreement (“swap agreement”) is recognized on the balance sheet at its fair value. On the date the swap agreement is entered into, the Company designates the swap agreement as a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (cash-flow hedge) if the applicable criteria are met. Changes in the fair value of the swap agreement are recorded in other comprehensive income until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows.

The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedged transactions. This process includes linking all cash-flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge's inception and on an ongoing basis, whether they are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items. When it is determined that the swap agreement is not highly effective or that it has ceased to be highly effective, the Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively as discussed below.

The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when (a) it is determined that the swap agreement is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of a hedged item (including forecasted transactions); (b) the swap agreement expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; (c) the swap agreement is de-designated as a hedge instrument because it is unlikely that a forecasted transaction will occur; or (d) management determines that designation as a hedge instrument is no longer appropriate.

When hedge accounting is discontinued because it is probable that a forecasted transaction will not occur, the swap agreement will continue to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, and gains and losses that were accumulated in other comprehensive income or loss will be recognized immediately in earnings. In all other situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued, the swap agreement will be carried at its fair value on the balance sheet with subsequent changes in its fair value recognized in current-period earnings.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) periodically issues new accounting standards in a continuing effort to improve standards of financial accounting and reporting. We have reviewed the recently issued pronouncements and concluded that no new accounting standard updates (“ASU”) had or may have a material impact on the Company.

 

Note 2INVENTORIESCASH

 

Inventories consistThe below table reconciles cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash as reported in the condensed balance sheets to the total of the following:same amounts shown in the condensed statements of cash flows:

 

  

May 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 

Current:

        

Product inventory

 $56,900,700  $59,577,400 

Inventory valuation allowance

  (556,700

)

  (490,900

)

Inventories net – current

 $56,344,000  $59,086,500 
         

Noncurrent:

        

Product inventory

 $6,432,100  $5,135,200 

Inventory valuation allowance

  (451,600

)

  (415,600

)

Inventories net – noncurrent

 $5,980,500  $4,719,600 
  

August 31, 2023

  

August 31, 2022

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 $1,480,900  $832,500 

Restricted cash

  1,077,800   - 

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the condensed statements of cash flows

 $2,558,700  $832,500 

 

InventoryThe Company contracts with Braintree Payment Services and PayPal, Inc. (together “PayPal”), third-party merchant service processors, to capture PayPal, Visa, Discover and Mastercard payments from customers. Approximately 90% of all payments received by the Company are channeled through these processors. During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, PayPal, under the terms of our agreements, began to hold cash payments received from customers in transit totaled $443,600 and $850,100 at May 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023, respectively.reserve to offset any potential chargebacks. The Company has classified the cash held in reserves as restricted cash.

 

911

 

Note 3 – ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, the Company executed the Third Amendment to the existing Credit Agreement with BOKF, NA. This amendment required the Company to list its real estate property located at 10302 East 55th Place, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74146 for sale by August 18, 2023. This property was appraised for a market value of $5,100,000.

The Company ceased recording depreciation on the assets upon meeting the held for sale criteria at the end of its second quarter of fiscal 2024. The Company records assets held for sale at the lower of their carrying value or fair value less costs to sell. As of August 31, 2023, the total carrying value of assets held for sale was $811,800 and is separately recorded on the condensed balance sheets. The net cash received from the sale will be applied to the Term Loans outstanding in the Credit Agreement with the Company’s Bank.

Note 4 – INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:

  

August 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 

Current:

        

Product inventory

 $54,317,200  $59,577,400 

Inventory valuation allowance

  (635,000

)

  (490,900

)

Inventories net – current

 $53,682,200  $59,086,500 
         

Noncurrent:

        

Product inventory

 $8,676,900  $5,135,200 

Inventory valuation allowance

  (487,600

)

  (415,600

)

Inventories net – noncurrent

 $8,189,300  $4,719,600 

Inventory in transit totaled $503,800 and $850,100 at August 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively.

Product inventory quantities in excess of what we expect will be sold within the normal operating cycle, based on 2½ years of anticipated sales, are included in noncurrent inventory.

 

Note 35 – LEASES

 

We have both lessee and lessor arrangements. Our lessee arrangements include four rental agreements where we have the exclusive use of dedicated office space in San Diego, California, warehouse and office space in Layton, Utah, warehouse and office space in Seattle, Washington, and warehouse space locally in Tulsa, OK,Oklahoma, all of which qualify as operating leases. Our lessor arrangements include two rental agreements for warehouse and office space in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and each qualify as an operating lease under ASC 842.

 

Operating Leases Lessee

 

We recognize a lease liability, reported in other liabilities on the condensed balance sheets, for each lease based on the present value of remaining minimum fixed rental payments (which includes payments under any renewal option that we are reasonably certain to exercise), using a discount rate that approximates the rate of interest we would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term. We also recognize a right-of-use asset, reported in other assets on the condensed balance sheets, for each lease, valued at the lease liability and adjusted for prepaid or accrued rent balances existing at the time of initial recognition. The lease liability and right-of-use asset are reduced over the term of the lease as payments are made and the assets are used.

 

 

May 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

  

August 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 

Operating lease assets:

                

Right-of-use assets

 $726,000  $823,600  $627,700  $823,600 
                

Operating lease liabilities:

                

Current lease liabilities

 $338,100  $347,800  $324,100  $347,800 

Long-term lease liabilities

 $387,900  $475,800  $303,600  $475,800 
                

Weighted-average remaining lease term (months)

  33.3   36.3   30.3   36.3 

Weighted-average discount rate

  4.01

%

  4.01

%

  4.01

%

  4.01

%

 

12

Minimum fixed rental payments are recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease as costs and expenses in our statements of operations. Variable and short-term rental payments are recognized as costs and expenses as they are incurred.

 

  

May 31, 2023

  

May 31, 2022

 
         

Fixed lease costs

 $105,800  $37,900 

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Fixed lease costs

 $105,800  $12,400  $211,600  $50,300 

 

Future minimum rental payments under operating leases with initial terms greater than one year as of MayAugust 31, 2023, are as follows:

         

Years ending February 28 (29),

        

2024

  296,900  $191,200 

2025

  270,500   270,500 

2026

  122,200   122,200 

2027

  72,800   72,800 

Total future minimum rental payments

  762,400   656,700 

Less: imputed interest

  (36,400

)

  (29,000

)

Total operating lease liabilities

 $726,000  $627,700 

 

The following table provides further information about our operating leases reported in our condensed financial statements:

 

  

May 31, 2023

  

May 31, 2022

 
         

Operating cash outflows – operating leases

 $105,800  $37,900 
  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Operating cash outflows – operating leases

 $105,800  $12,400  $211,600  $50,300 

 

10

Operating Leases Lessor

 

We recognize fixed rental income on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease as other income in our condensed statements of operations.

 

Future minimum payments receivable under operating leases with terms greater than one year are estimated as follows:

         

Years ending February 28 (29),

        

2024

 $1,178,800  $788,900 

2025

  1,547,100   1,547,100 

2026

  1,524,300   1,524,300 

2027

  1,554,800   1,554,800 

2028

  1,585,900   1,585,900 

Thereafter

  4,950,300   4,950,400 

Total

 $12,341,200  $11,951,400 

 

The cost of the leased space was $10,637,900 at MayAugust 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023. The accumulated depreciation associated with the leased assets was $2,946,700$3,039,900 and $2,853,200 as of MayAugust 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023, respectively. Both theThe leased assets and accumulated depreciation are included in assets held for sale and property, plant and equipment - net on the condensed balance sheets.

 

13

Note 46 – DEBT

 

Debt consists of the following:

  

May 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 
         

Line of credit

 $10,959,200  $10,634,500 
         

Floating rate term loan

 $20,212,500  $20,475,000 

Fixed rate term loan

  14,437,500   14,625,000 

Total term debt

  34,650,000   35,100,000 
         

Less current maturities

  (34,456,100

)

  (34,894,900

)

Less debt issue cost

  (193,900

)

  (205,100

)

Long-term debt, net

 $-  $- 

  

August 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 
         

Line of credit

 $9,723,100  $10,634,500 
         

Floating rate term loan

 $19,950,000  $20,475,000 

Fixed rate term loan

  14,250,000   14,625,000 

Total long-term debt

  34,200,000   35,100,000 
         

Less current maturities

  (1,800,000

)

  (34,894,900

)

Less debt issue cost

  (182,700

)

  (205,100

)

Long-term debt, net

 $32,217,300  $- 

 

On August 9, 2022, the Company repaid in full all outstanding indebtedness and terminated all commitments and obligations under its Amended and Restated Loan Agreement dated February 15, 2021 (as amended), between the Company and MidFirst Bank and executed a new Credit Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with BOKF, NA (“Bank of Oklahoma” or the “Lender”). The Loan Agreement established a fixed rate term loan in the principal amount of $15,000,000 (the “Fixed Rate Term Loan”), a floating rate term loan in the principal amount of $21,000,000 (the “Floating Rate Term Loan”; together with the Fixed Rate Term Loan, collectively, the “Term Loans”), and a revolving promissory note in the principal amount up to $15,000,000 (the “Revolving Loan” or “Line of Credit”).

 

On December 22, 2022, the Company executed the First Amendment to our Loan Agreement with the Lender. This amendment clarified the definition of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio to exclude dividends paid prior to November 30, 2022, and placed restrictions on acquisitions and cash dividends.

 

On May 10, 2023, the Company executed the Second Amendment to our Loan Agreement with the Lender. This amendment waived the fixed charge ratio default which occurred on February 28, 2023 and amended the financial covenant to not require the fixed charge ratio to be measured at May 31, 2023. The Second Amendment also added a cumulative maximum level of fiscal year to date inventory purchases through the expiration of the Revolving Loan Agreement, increased the borrowing rate on the Company’s Revolving Loan to Term SOFR Rate plus 3.5%, required certain swap agreementsagreement be executed within 30 days of the amendment, reduced the revolving commitment from $15,000,000 to $14,000,000, effective May 10, 2023, and further reduced the revolving commitment to $13,500,000, effective July 15, 2023, among other items.

 

Available credit underOn June 6, 2023, pursuant to its interest rate risk and risk management strategy, the current $14,000,000 revolving line of creditCompany entered into a swap transaction (the “Swap Transaction”) with the Company’s Lender, was approximately $3,040,800 atwhich converts a portion of the original $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan from a floating interest rate to a fixed interest rate for the next two years. The Swap Transaction has a notional amount of $18,000,000 through fiscal quarter ending May 31, 2024, and then resets to $13,000,000 through May 30, 2025, while continuing to mirror the amortizing balance of the Floating Rate Term Loan. Under the terms of this agreement, the Company, in effect, has exchanged the floating interest rate of 30-Day Term SOFR Rate at the trade date of June 5, 2023, to a fixed rate of 4.73%. The Swap Transaction commenced on June 7, 2023, with a termination date of May 30, 2025.

On August 9, 2023, the Company executed the Third Amendment along with a Revised Credit Agreement (“Revised Loan Agreement”) with the Lender. This amendment extended the Revolving Loan maturity date to January 31, 2024 and introduced a stepdown to the Revolving Commitment from $13,500,000, through August 30, 2023; to $10,500,000 through October 30, 2023; to $9,000,000 through November 29, 2023; to $5,000,000 through December 30, 2023; to $4,500,000 through January 30, 2024; and to $4,000,000 on January 31, 2024. The amendment restricts the Company from entering into any new purchase orders and use its best efforts to cancel existing purchase orders. It also requires the Company to list its real estate property located at 10302 East 55th Place, Tulsa, Oklahoma, for sale with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender on or before August 18, 2023, among other items. Contingent upon the occurrence of an Event of Default in the agreement, the Company shall within 15 days list its real estate property for sale located at 5402 South 122nd Ave., Tulsa, Oklahoma (“Hilti Complex), with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender. The Third Amendment also increased the borrowing rate on the Revolving Loan to 30-Day Term SOFR Rate + 4.50%, or 9.81% at August 31, 2023. The Revised Loan Agreement was updated for the changes in the Third Amendment as well as removed the fixed charge ratio and the ability for borrowings to be accelerated before the January 31, 2024 Revolving Loan maturity date.

 

1114

 

Available credit under the current $10,500,000 revolving line of credit with the Company’s Lender was approximately $776,900 at August 31, 2023.

Features of the Revised Loan Agreement (as amended) at MayAugust 31, 2023 include:

 

 

(i)

Two Term LoansLoan on 20-year amortization with 5-year maturity date of August 9, 2027

 

(ii)

Revolving Loan maturity date of August 9, 2023

(iii)

$15 Million Fixed Rate Term Loan bears interest at a fixed rate per annum equal to 4.26%

 

(iv)(iii)

$21 Million Floating Rate Term Loan bears interest at a rate per annum equal to Term SOFR Rate + 1.75% (effective rate was 6.79%7.06% at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

(v)(iv)

Stepdown Revolving Loan with maturity date of January 31, 2024. The Revolving Loan bears interest at a rate per annum equal to Term SOFR Rate + 3.50%4.50% (effective rate was 8.54%9.81% at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

(vi)(v)

Revolving Loan allows for Letters of Credit up to $7,500,000 upon bank approval (none were outstanding at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

ThePrior to the Third Amendment, executed on August 9, 2023, the Loan Agreement containscontained provisions that requirerequired the Company to maintain a minimum fixed charge ratio and limits any additional debt with other lenders.ratio. The Company was in violation of the minimum fixed charge ratio covenant as of February 28, 2023, for which the Company obtained a written waiver of compliance from the Lender and iswas not required to measure the fixed charge ratio as of May 31, 2023. The Company does not expectConcurrent with the execution of the Third Amendment to meetthe Loan Agreement, the Loan Agreement was modified to incorporate the changes outlined in the Third Amendment and the fixed charge ratio outlined incovenant was removed, as well as the amended Loan Agreement, during fiscal year 2024. Under the terms of the amended Loan Agreement, not meeting this ratio would represent an Event of Default. Should an Event of Default occur, the Lender will have theLender’s right to accelerate the maturities of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan. As an Event of Default is expected, and no waiver of the Event of Default is guaranteedLoan due to be received by the Lender, the long-term maturities of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Float Rate Term Loan have been reclassified as current liabilities.

While the Company received a waiver for the fixed charge ratio default that occurred on February 28, 2023, the borrowing and purchasing capacity was restricted and management's forecast indicated thatcovenant. Should the Company willfail to meet any of the remaining terms outlined in the Revised Credit Agreement or fail to meet the stepdown requirements of the Revolving Loan, the Company shall within 15 days list its real estate property for sale located at 5402 South 122nd Ave., Tulsa, Oklahoma (“Hilti Complex”), with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender. Proceeds from the sale of the property would be out of compliance in future periods. An Event of Default is expected associatedused to pay off all the borrowings with the amendedLender. A third-party appraisal was completed on the Hilti Complex, consisting of the 400,000 square feet building complex on approximately 40 acres, along with approximately 15 acres of adjacent unused land, in July of 2022 with a market value of $41,200,000.

The short-term duration of the Revolving Loan, Agreement, there is no guaranty that the Eventuncertainty of Default will be waived by the Lender,Company’s ability to meet the stepdown requirements outlined in the Third Amendment and the bank may chooseability to acceleraterenew the maturities of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan. These conditions,line on January 31, 2024, among others in the aggregate,other items raise substantial doubt over the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Management has plans to enter into a new financing agreement by August 9, 2023, withthat should it violate the Lender, which will allow it to operate without default and reclassify the non-current portionsterms of the Fixed RateThird Amendment or Revised Credit Agreement, the Company will sell the Hilti Complex and pay off the Term LoanLoans and Floating Rate Term Loan as long-term liabilities.Revolving Loan. The proceeds from the sale of the property are expected to generate sufficient cashflows to allow the Company to continue operations without borrowing funds from their bank. In addition, management’s plans include reducing inventory which will generate free cashflows and related borrowing costs, building the active number of PaperPie Brand Partnersbrand partners to pre-pandemic levels, as the distraction and costs associated with the rebrand that occurred in fiscal year 2023 are expected to have a lesser impact in the future, reducing expenses due to lower revenue volumes and receipt of the contingent Employee Retention Credit. Management expects these plans are probable of being achieved to alleviate the substantial doubt about continuing as a going concern and expects to generate sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations as they become due over the next twelve months.levels.

 

The following table reflects aggregate currentfuture scheduled maturities of termlong-term debt excluding the Revolving Loan, during the currentnext five fiscal yearyears as follows:

 

Year ending February 29,

 

 

Years ending February 28 (29),

    

2024

$

34,650,000

 $900,000 

2025

  1,800,000 

2026

  1,800,000 

2027

  1,800,000 

2028

  27,900,000 

Total

 $34,200,000 

 

Note 7 – OTHER INCOME

A summary of other income (loss) is show below:

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 
                 

Federal tax credits realized

 $3,808,700  $-  $3,808,700  $- 

Rental income

  386,000   395,000   772,000   790,000 

Other

  58,100   1,000   63,500   (3,300

)

Total other income

 $4,252,800  $396,000  $4,644,200  $786,700 

15

As a response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the U.S. government enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) which contained a number of programs to assist workers, families and businesses. Part of the CARES Act provides an Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”) which is a refundable tax credit against certain employment taxes equal to 50% of qualified wages paid, up to $10,000 per employee annually, from March 12, 2020 through January 1, 2021. Additional relief provisions were passed by the U.S. government, which extended and expanded the qualified wage caps on these credits to 70% of qualified wages paid, up to $10,000 per employee per quarter, through September 30, 2021. Due to the subjectivity of the credit, the Company elected to account for the ERC as a gain analogizing to ASC 450-30, Gain Contingencies.         

During the quarter ended August 31, 2023, the Department of Treasury notified the Company of ERC credits awarded under the CARES Act for the first three quarters of calendar 2021. During August 2023, the Company received three refund payments resulting from amended 2021 Q1, Q2 and Q3 941-X returns that were filed. As a result of receiving these refund payments, the Company is required to file amended fiscal 2021 and 2022 corporate income tax returns reducing the wages expense deduction associated with the credit received. The Company has recognized estimated federal and state tax liabilities associated with these amended returns of approximately $1,041,600 as of August 31, 2023, which are included in income taxes payable on the condensed balance sheets.

Note 58 – BUSINESS CONCENTRATION

 

Significant portions of our inventory purchases are concentrated with an England-based publishing company, Usborne Publishing Limited (“Usborne”). During fiscal 2023, we entered into a new distribution agreement (“Agreement”) with Usborne. The Agreement includes annual minimum purchase volumes, based on Usborne’s fiscal year ending January 31st, along with specific payment terms and letter of credit requirements, which if not met may result in Usborne having the right to terminate the Agreement on less than 30 days’ written notice. Should termination of the Agreement occur, the Company will be allowed to sell its remaining Usborne inventory for an agreed upon period, but not less than twelve months following the termination date. The Company did not meet the minimum purchase requirements for the fiscal period ending January 31, 2023, did not supply the letter of credit required under the Agreement and certain payments were not received timely, which could allow Usborne to exercise their option to terminate the Agreement. As of MayAugust 31, 2023, Usborne has not notified the Company of termination of the Agreement. During Usborne’s fiscal year ended January 31, 2022, the Company earned a volume rebate of approximately $1,000,000, which was documented in the new Agreement. Usborne has refused to pay the $1,000,000 volume rebate owed to the Company due to not meeting the minimum purchase requirements or supplying the required letter of credit. The Company is disputing the cancellation of the rebate but has not recognized any reduced cost of goods sold from the rebate in fiscal year 2024 due to its uncertainty.

 

12

Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company no longer has the rights to distribute Usborne’s products to retail customers after November 15, 2022, at which time Usborne was slated to use a different distributor to supply retail accounts with its products. As a courtesy upon Usborne’s request, the November 15, 2022 transition was extended until their new supplier could begin distribution, andinto the first quarter of fiscal 2024 at which time the Company continued to distribute Usborne products through April 30, 2023. Gross sales attributed to Usborne products sold within the Publishing division accounted for approximately 67.3%, or $2,740,000, during the quarter ended May 31, 2023, and 82.5%, or $5,451,000, during the quarter ended May 31, 2022. The Company continues to distribute Usborne products through our Direct Sales division, PaperPie. Grossdiscontinued sales of Usborne products sold within the PaperPie division accounted for approximately 50.6%, or $8,362,300 during the quarter ended May 31, 2023, and 59.8%, or $14,791,700, during the quarter ended May 31, 2022.to its retail customers.

 

Purchases received fromThe following table summarizes Usborne were approximately $935,600product gross sales by division and $3,577,300 for the period ended May 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Total inventory purchases for those same periods were approximately $3,190,200 and $5,978,600, respectively. by product type:

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Gross sales of Usborne products by division:

                

PaperPie division

 $6,227,900  $12,462,900  $14,590,200  $27,254,600 

% of total PaperPie gross sales

  48.8

%

  61.1

%

  49.8

%

  60.4

%

Publishing division

  -   6,214,200   2,740,000   11,665,200 

% of total Publishing gross sales

  0.0

%

  84.5

%

  41.1

%

  83.5

%

Total gross sales of Usborne products

 $6,227,900  $18,677,100  $17,330,200  $38,919,800 
                 

Purchases received by product type:

                

Usborne

 $625,200  $1,206,200  $1,560,700  $4,783,500 

% of total purchases received

  21.9

%

  38.1

%

  25.8

%

  52.3

%

All other product types

  2,223,400   1,956,900   4,478,000   4,358,200 

% of total purchases received

  78.1

%

  61.9

%

  74.2

%

  47.7

%

Total purchases received

 $2,848,600  $3,163,100  $6,038,700  $9,141,700 

Total Usborne inventory owned by the Company and included in our balance sheet was $33,977,300$33,029,300 and $35,363,500 as of MayAugust 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023, respectively.

 

16

Note 69 – EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

Basic earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net earnings (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.period excluding nonvested restricted stock awards. Diluted EPS is based onincludes the combined weighted average numberdilutive effect of common shares outstandingissued unvested restricted stock awards and dilutiveadditional potential common shares issuable which include, where appropriate, the assumed exercise ofunder stock warrants, restricted stock and stock options, and the assumed vesting of granted restricted share awards. In computing Diluted EPS, we haveif applicable. We utilized the treasury stock method.method in computing the potential common shares issuable under stock warrants, restricted stock and stock options.

 

The computation of weighted average common and common equivalent shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted EPS is shown below:

 

 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Earnings (loss):

                        

Net earnings (loss) applicable to common shareholders

 $(872,800

)

 $215,800  $1,061,700  $(801,900

)

 $188,900  $(586,100

)

                        

Weighted average shares:

                        

Weighted average shares outstanding-basic

  8,278,049   8,086,427   8,269,771   8,081,807   8,273,910   8,084,117 

Issued unvested restricted stock and assumed shares issuable under granted unvested restricted stock awards

  -   387,183   -   -   9,311   - 

Weighted average shares outstanding-diluted

  8,278,049   8,473,610   8,269,771   8,081,807   8,283,221   8,084,117 
                        

Earnings (loss) per share:

                        

Basic

 $(0.11

)

 $0.03  $0.13  $(0.10

)

 $0.02  $(0.07

)

Diluted

 $(0.11

)

 $0.03  $0.13  $(0.10

)

 $0.02  $(0.07

)

 

As shown in the table below, the following shares have not been included in the calculation of diluted earnings (loss) per share as they would be anti-dilutive to the calculation above.

 

 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Weighted average shares:

                        

Issued unvested restricted stock and assumed shares issuable under granted unvested restricted stock awards

  8,551   -   -   264,653   -   331,956 

Note 10 – COMMITMENT AND CONTINGENCIES

During the second quarter the Company received a property tax assessment notice on our inventory balance at December 31, 2022 from Tulsa County totaling approximately $917,700. The Company appealed the assessment, requesting a reduction of the property tax assessment on inventory to approximately $175,500. On July 5, 2023, the Company met with the Tulsa County Board of Equalization (“Board”) and presented the appeal, which was granted by the Board. Subsequent to the Board’s decision, the Tulsa County Assessor appealed the Board’s decision by filing a case with the Oklahoma Court of Tax Review. The Company has accrued the property taxes associated with the Board’s decision of approximately $175,500 but awaits the final decision from the Oklahoma Court of Tax Review. Should the Court of Tax Review rule against the Board’s decision, the Company expects to further escalate the appeal to the Oklahoma Supreme Court.

 

1317

 

Note 711 – SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

We account for share-based compensation whereby share-based payment transactions with employees, such as stock options and restricted stock, are measured at estimated fair value at the date of grant. For awards subject to service conditions, compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period on a straight-line basis. Awards subject to performance conditions are attributed separately for each vesting tranche of the award and are recognized ratably from the service inception date to the vesting date for each tranche. Forfeitures are recognized when they occur. The probability of restricted share awards granted with future performance conditions is evaluated at each reporting period and share awards are updated and compensation expense is adjusted based on updated information.

 

In July 2018, our shareholders approved the Company’s 2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2019 LTI Plan”). The 2019 LTI Plan established up to 600,000 shares of restricted stock available to be granted to certain members of management based on exceeding specified net revenues and pre-tax performance metrics during fiscal years 2019, 2020 or 2021. The Company exceeded all defined metrics during these fiscal years and 600,000 shares were granted to members of management according to the Plan. The granted shares under the 2019 LTI Plan “cliff vest” after five years from the fiscal year that the defined metrics were exceeded.

 

In July 2021, our shareholders approved the Company’s 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2022 LTI Plan”). The 2022 LTI Plan established up to 300,000 shares of restricted stock available to be granted to certain members of management based on exceeding specified net revenues and pre-tax performance metrics during fiscal years 2022 or 2023. The Company did not exceed the defined metrics during these fiscal years and no shares were granted to members of management according to the Plan.

During fiscal year 2019, the Company granted 308,000 restricted shares under the 2019 LTI Plan with an average grant-date fair value of $9.94 per share. In fiscal year 2021, 5,000 restricted shares were forfeited and later regranted to other participants. During fiscal year 2023, 10,000 restricted shares were forfeited, along with 969 additional shares purchased with dividends received from the original issue date. The 10,000 forfeited shares were re-granted to participants during the fiscal 2023 third quarter with an average grant-date fair value of $2.08. The 969 shares purchased with dividends were not reissued. The 303,000 outstanding shares were vested on February 28, 2023.

During fiscal year 2021, the Company granted 297,000 restricted shares under the 2019 LTI Plan with an average grant-date fair value of $6.30 per share. During fiscal year 2023, 18,000 restricted shares were forfeited, along with 760 additional shares purchased with dividends received from the original issue date. TheThese 18,000 forfeited shares were re-granted to participants during the fiscal 2023 third quarter with an average grant-date fair value of $2.08. The 760 shares purchased with dividends were not reissued. During the second quarter of fiscal 2024, 4,000 restricted shares were forfeited. These forfeitures are available for reissue to remaining participants under the 2019 LTI Plan. The remaining unrecognized compensation expense of these awards, totaling approximately $673,300$569,500 as of MayAugust 31, 2023, will be recognized ratably over the remaining vesting period of 2118 months.

 

A summary of compensation expense recognized in connection with restricted share awards follows:

 

  

Three Months Ended May 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 
         

Share-based compensation expense

 $96,200  $261,600 
  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 
                 

Share-based compensation expense

 $96,200  $261,600  $192,400  $523,200 

Less reduction of expense for forfeitures

  (16,600

)

  (141,900

)

  (16,600

)

  (141,900

)

Share-based compensation expense - net

 $79,600  $119,700  $175,800  $381,300 

 

The following table summarizes stock award activity during the first threesix months of fiscal year 20242023 under the 2019 LTI Plan:

 

 

Shares

  

Weighted Average Fair Value (per share)

  

Shares

  

Weighted Average Fair Value (per share)

 
                

Outstanding at February 28, 2023

  297,000  $6.04   297,000  $6.04 

Granted

  -   -   -   - 

Vested

  -   -   -   - 

Forfeited

  -   -   (4,000)  6.04 

Outstanding at May 31, 2023

  297,000  $6.04 

Outstanding at August 31, 2023

  293,000  $6.04 

 

14

Note 812 – SHIPPING AND HANDLING COSTS

 

We classify shipping and handling costs as operating and selling expenses in the condensed statements of operations. Shipping and handling costs include postage, freight, handling costs, as well as shipping materials and supplies. These costs were $1,938,100$1,414,200 and $3,562,600$3,123,700 for the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These costs were $3,352,300 and $6,686,300 for the six months ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

 

18

Note 913 – BUSINESS SEGMENTS

 

We have two reportable segments: PaperPie and Publishing. These reportable segments are business units that offer different methods of distribution to different types of customers. They are managed separately based on the fundamental differences in their operations. Our PaperPie segment markets its products through a network of independent brand partners using a combination of internet sales, direct sales, home shows and book fairs. Our Publishing segment markets its products to retail accounts, which include book, school supply, toy and gift stores, museums, trade and specialty wholesalers, through commissioned sales representatives and our internal tele-sales group.

 

See Note 58 for the impact of our updated distribution agreement on the Publishing segment.

 

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those of the rest of the Company. We evaluate segment performance based on earnings before income taxes of the segments, which is defined as segment net revenues reduced by cost of sales and direct expenses. Corporate expenses, depreciation, interest expense, other income and income taxes are not allocated to the segments but are listed in the “Other” row below. Corporate expenses include the executive department, accounting department, information services department, general office management, warehouse operations and building facilities management. Our assets and liabilities are not allocated on a segment basis.

 

Information by reporting segment for the three-monththree and six-month periods ended MayAugust 31, 2023 and 2022, are as follows:

 

NET REVENUES

NET REVENUES

 

NET REVENUES

 
 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

PaperPie

 $12,583,200  $20,016,800  $9,334,000  $15,932,200  $21,917,200  $35,949,000 

Publishing

  1,940,800   3,144,100   1,259,100   3,486,100   3,199,900   6,630,200 

Total

 $14,524,000  $23,160,900  $10,593,100  $19,418,300  $25,117,100  $42,579,200 

 

EARNINGS (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

EARNINGS (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

EARNINGS (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 
 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

PaperPie

 $1,658,700  $3,331,200  $364,200  $1,697,900  $2,022,900  $5,029,200 

Publishing

  460,000   749,800   436,600   815,900   896,600   1,565,600 

Other

  (3,319,300

)

  (3,795,700

)

  652,100   (3,619,400

)

  (2,667,200

)

  (7,415,200

)

Total

 $(1,200,600

)

 $285,300  $1,452,900  $(1,105,600

)

 $252,300  $(820,400

)

 

Note 14 – INTEREST RATE SWAP AGREEMENT

The Company maintains an interest-rate risk-management strategy that uses interest-rate swap instruments to minimize significant, unanticipated earnings fluctuations caused by interest-rate volatility. The Company's specific goal is to lower the cost of its borrowed funds, when possible.

On June 5, 2023 the Company entered into a receive-variable (based on 30-Day SOFR)/pay-fixed interest-rate swap agreement related to $18,000,000 of our $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan. This swap is utilized to manage interest-rate exposure over the period of the interest-rate swap and is designated as a highly effective cash-flow hedge. The differential to be paid or received on the swap agreement is accrued as interest rates change and is recognized in interest expense over the life of the agreement. The swap agreement amortizes down consistent with the $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan, expires on May 30, 2025 and has effectively fixed the interest rate of $18,000,000 of the $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan at 6.48%. The notional amount of the swap was $17,825,000 at August 31, 2023. The interest-rate swap contains no credit-risk–related contingent features and is cross-collateralized by all assets of the Company.

The effective portion of the unrealized gain or loss on this interest-rate swap is reported as a component of other comprehensive income (“OCI”) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the interest rate swap representing amounts excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.

19

The fair value of the interest rate swap is included in the following caption on the condensed balance sheets as follows:

  

August 31, 2023

  

February 28, 2023

 
         

Prepaid expenses and other assets

 $51,100  $- 

There was no portion of the unrealized gain that was excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness.

Note 1015 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

The following methods and assumptions are used in estimating the fair-value disclosures for financial instruments:

 

 

-

The carrying amounts reported onin the condensed balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instrumentsinstruments.

-

The estimated fair value of our assets held for sale was $4,694,000 as of August 31, 2023. We did not have any assets held for sale as of February 28, 2023. Management's estimates are based on the appraised market value and listing price of the asset less the costs to sell.

 

 

-

The estimated fair value of our term notes payable is estimated by management to approximate $33,981,600$33,588,100 and $34,253,500 as of MayAugust 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023, respectively. Management's estimates are based on the obligations' characteristics, including floating interest rate, maturity, and collateral.

-The fair value of the Company’s interest rate swap is based on Level 2 inputs, including the present value of estimated future cash flows based on market expectations of the yield curve on variable interest rates.

 

15

Note 1116 – DEFERRED REVENUES

 

The Company’s PaperPie division receives payments on orders in advance of shipment. Any payments received prior to the end of the period that were not shipped as of MayAugust 31, 2023 or February 28, 2023 are recorded as deferred revenues on the condensed balance sheets. We received approximately $970,500$689,600 and $602,700 as of MayAugust 31, 2023 and February 28, 2023, respectively, in payments for sales orders which were, or will be, shipped out subsequent to the end of the period.

 

Note 1217 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

On June 6,Effective September 11, 2023, pursuant to its interest rate risk and risk management strategy, the Company (“Seller”) entered into a swap transaction (the “Swap Transaction”Contract of Sale of Real Estate (“Sale Agreement”) with BOKF, NA, which converts a portionMA Temple Investments LLC (the “Buyer”), for the sale of the original $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan from a floating interest rate to a fixed interest rate forCompany’s property located at 10302 East 55th Place, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74146 consisting of 104,875 rentable square feet on approximately 3.5 acres. The Sale Agreement price was $5,100,000. Per the next two years. The Swap TransactionSale Agreement, the closing process shall be completed on or before October 25, 2023, and has a notional amountnot closed by the time of $18,000,000 through fiscal quarter ending May 31, 2024, and then resets to $13,000,000 through May 31, 2025, while continuing to match the amortizing balance of the original loan. Underthis filing. In accordance with the terms of this agreement, the Company, in effect, has exchangedSale Agreement, upon closing of the floating interestsale and commencing on the Closing Date, the Buyer and Seller shall execute a NNN (triple-net) Lease (the “Lease”) under which the Seller shall lease the entire building for a period of three years. The Seller will continue to have the right to sublease space within the building for the lease term. The initial lease rate of 30-Day Term SOFR Rate + 1.75%, or 6.90%shall be $4.00 per rentable square foot, with 3% escalations at the trade datebeginning of June 5,each year of the Lease. The Lease shall include NNN terms such that the Seller shall be responsible for utilities, insurance, property taxes and repairs and maintenance, excluding roof and structure, which shall be the Buyer’s responsibility. The Lease shall include other terms considered to be normal and customary in the local market. The net cash received from the sale will be applied to the Term Loans outstanding in the Credit Agreement with the Company’s Bank.

During September 2023, the cash held in reserve, presented as restricted cash on the Company’s condensed balance sheet, was increased to a fixed rate of 4.73% + 1.75%, or 6.48%. The Swap Transaction commenced on June 7, 2023, with a termination date of May 30, 2025.

approximately $1,500,000.

 

1620

 

Item 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Factors Affecting Forward-Looking Statements

 

See Cautionary Remarks Regarding Forward-Looking Statements in the front of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Overview

 

We are the owner and exclusive publisher of Kane Miller children’s books; Learning Wrap-Ups, maker of educational manipulatives; and SmartLab Toys, maker of STEAM-based toys and games. We are also the exclusive United States Multi-Level Marketing (“MLM”) distributor of Usborne Publishing Limited (“Usborne”) children’s books. Significant portions of our existing inventory purchasesvolumes are concentrated with Usborne. Our distribution agreement with Usborne includes annual minimum purchase volumes along with specific payment terms, which, if not met or if payments are not received in a timely manner, may result in termination of the agreement. During fiscal 2023, the Company did not meet the minimum purchase volumes, did not supply the letter of credit required under the Agreement and certain payments were not received timely. No notification of termination has been received by the Company as of the date of issuance of this Form 10-Q and Usborne continues to accept and fulfill purchase orders from the Company.10-Q. Should termination of the agreement occur, the Company will be allowed, at a minimum, to sell through their remaining Usborne inventory over the twelve months following the termination date.

 

We sell our products through two separate divisions, PaperPie and Publishing. These two divisions each have their own customer base. The PaperPie division markets our complete line of products through a network of independent brand partners using a combination of home shows, internet party events and book fairs. The Publishing division markets Kane Miller, Learning Wrap-Ups and SmartLab Toys on a wholesale basis to various retail accounts. All other supporting administrative activities are recognized as other expenses outside of our two divisions. Other expenses consist primarily of the compensation for our office, warehouse and sales support staff as well as the cost of operating and maintaining our corporate offices and distribution facility.

 

The following table shows our condensed statements of operations data:

 

 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Net revenues

 $14,524,000  $23,160,900  $10,593,100  $19,418,300  $25,117,100  $42,579,200 

Cost of goods sold

  5,150,400   7,851,500   3,684,300   6,939,700   8,834,700   14,791,300 

Gross margin

  9,373,600   15,309,400   6,908,800   12,478,600   16,282,400   27,787,900 
                        

Operating expenses

                        

Operating and selling

  2,397,900   3,770,600   1,916,000   3,798,800   4,313,900   7,569,400 

Sales commissions

  4,199,800   6,871,800   3,520,300   5,635,700   7,720,100   12,507,500 

General and administrative

  3,634,500   4,384,300   3,529,100   4,017,600   7,163,600   8,401,900 

Total operating expenses

  10,232,200   15,026,700   8,965,400   13,452,100   19,197,600   28,478,800 
                        

Interest expense

  733,400   388,100   743,300   528,100   1,476,700   916,200 

Other income

  (391,400

)

  (390,700

)

  (4,252,800

)

  (396,000

)

  (4,644,200

)

  (786,700

)

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

  (1,200,600

)

  285,300   1,452,900   (1,105,600

)

  252,300   (820,400

)

                        
Income tax expense (benefit)  (327,800

)

  69,500   391,200   (303,700

)

  63,400   (234,300

)

Net earnings (loss)

 $(872,800

)

 $215,800  $1,061,700  $(801,900

)

 $188,900  $(586,100

)

 

See the detailed discussion of revenues, gross margin and general and administrative expenses by reportable segment below. The following is a discussion of significant changes in the non-segment related general and administrative expenses, other income and expenses and income taxes during the respective periods.

 

1721

 

Non-Segment Operating Results for the Three Months Ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

Total operating expenses not associated with a reporting segment decreased $0.8$0.6 million, or 21.1%17.1%, to $3.0$2.9 million for the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $3.8$3.5 million for the same quarterly period a year ago. Operating expenses decreased primarily as a result of a $0.6$0.4 million decrease in labor, expenses, primarily within our warehouse operations, and a $0.1$0.2 million decrease in freight handling expenses, along with $0.1 millionboth resulting from a decrease in combined lesser changes.gross sales.

 

Interest expense increased $0.3$0.2 million, or 75.0%40.0%, to $0.7 million for the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $0.4$0.5 million for the same quarterly period a year ago due to increased interest rates on the Company’s variable rate borrowings, period over period.

 

Income taxesOther income decreased $0.4increased $3.9 million, or 400.0%975.0%, to a tax benefit of $0.3$4.3 million for the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, from a tax expense of $0.1when compared to $0.4 million for the same quarterly period a year ago resulting primarilyfrom the receipt of the Employee Retention Credit totaling $3.8 million and a 0.1 million increase from the sale of assets.

Income taxes increased $0.7 million, or 233.3%, to a tax expense of $0.4 million for the three months ended August 31, 2023, from a decreasetax benefit of $0.3 million for the same quarterly period a year ago, primarily resulting from operating losses in gross sales.the second quarter ended August 31, 2022. Our effective tax rate increaseddecreased to 27.3%26.9% for the quarter ended MayAugust 31, 2023, from 24.3%27.5% for the quarter ended MayAugust 31, 2022 due to sales mix fluctuations between states. Our tax rates are higher than the federal statutory rate of 21% due to the inclusion of state income and franchise taxes.

Non-Segment Operating Results for the Six Months Ended August 31, 2023

Total operating expenses not associated with a reporting segment decreased $1.5 million, or 20.5%, to $5.8 million for the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $7.3 million for the same period a year ago. Labor expenses decreased $0.9 million, primarily within our warehouse operations, and freight handling costs decreased $0.3 million for the six months ended August 31, 2023, both associated with reduced sales, and a $0.3 million decrease in other various expenses.

Interest expense increased $0.6 million, or 66.6%, to $1.5 million for the six months ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $0.9 million for the same period a year ago, due to increased interest rates on the Company’s variable rate borrowings, period over period.

Other income increased $3.8 million, or 475.0%, to $4.6 million for the six months ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $0.8 million for the same quarterly period a year ago, primarily resulting from the receipt of the Employee Retention Credit totaling $3.8 million.

Income taxes increased $0.3 million, or 150.0%, to a tax expense of $0.1 million for the six months ended August 31, 2023, from a tax benefit of $0.2 million for the same period a year ago, primarily resulting from operating losses for the six months ended August 31, 2022. Our effective tax rate decreased to 25.1% for the six months ended August 31, 2023, from 28.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2022 due primarily to sales mix fluctuations between states. Our tax rates are higher than the federal statutory rate of 21% due to the inclusion of state income and franchise taxes.

 

22

PaperPie Operating Results for the Three and Six Months Ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

The following table summarizes the operating results of the PaperPie segment:

 

 

Three Months Ended

May 31,

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
 

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Gross sales

 $16,513,300  $24,731,100  $12,774,900  $20,411,500  $29,288,200  $45,142,600 

Less discounts and allowances

  (4,937,000

)

  (6,619,500

)

  (4,169,300

)

  (6,033,700

)

  (9,106,300

)

  (12,653,200

)

Transportation revenue

  1,006,900   1,905,200   728,400   1,554,400   1,735,300   3,459,600 

Net revenues

  12,583,200   20,016,800   9,334,000   15,932,200   21,917,200   35,949,000 
                        

Cost of goods sold

  4,186,300   6,162,000   3,230,900   5,085,500   7,417,200   11,247,500 

Gross margin

  8,396,900   13,854,800   6,103,100   10,846,700   14,500,000   24,701,500 
                        

Operating expenses

                        

Operating and selling

  1,875,400   2,985,500   1,612,900   2,960,700   3,488,300   5,946,200 

Sales commissions

  4,114,600   6,735,700   3,493,600   5,473,100   7,608,200   12,208,700 

General and administrative

  748,200   802,400   632,400   715,000   1,380,600   1,517,400 

Total operating expenses

  6,738,200   10,523,600   5,738,900   9,148,800   12,477,100   19,672,300 
                        

Operating income

 $1,658,700  $3,331,200  $364,200  $1,697,900  $2,022,900  $5,029,200 
                        

Average number of active brand partners

  23,200   32,200   18,100   26,800   20,600   29,500 

 

PaperPie Operating Results for the Three Months Ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

PaperPie net revenues decreased $7.4$6.6 million, or 37.0%41.5%, to $12.6$9.3 million during the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $20.0$15.9 million during the same period a year ago. The average number of active brand partners in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 2024 was 23,200,18,100, a decrease of 9,000,8,700, or 28.0%32.5%, from 32,20026,800 average active brand partners selling in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 2023. Recruiting and maintaining brand partners was negatively impacted throughout fiscal 2023, continuing through the first and second quarter of fiscal year 2024, by several factors including;including record inflation, our new distribution agreement with Usborne and the rebranding of the division in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023. Inflation was most evident in increased food and fuel prices, which impacts the disposable income of our target customer base, which is families with small children. Sales during the firstsecond quarter of fiscal year 2024 continued to be negatively impacted by continuing inflationary pressures and we expect this to continue through the remainder of fiscal year 2024, as these pressures persist. Historically, when we have experienced these difficult inflationary times, our active brand partner numbers have been positively impacted as more families look for non-traditional income streams to offset rising costs of living.

 

In the first fiscal quarter last year we executed a new distribution agreement with Usborne. The new distribution agreement created a level of uncertainty and distraction within our brand partners and continued through the fourth quarter as a result of our rebranding to PaperPie, which was a requirement of the new agreement. Rebranding this division disrupted sales in the fiscal fourth quarter and the impact continued into the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, as Brand Partnersbrand partners had to update all of their individual marketing and training materials. We expect this impact to dissipate this summer,during the remaining months of fiscal 2024, as all active Brand Partnersbrand partners will have transitioned to a PaperPie Brand Partnerbrand partner or will have made their first sale as a PaperPie Brand Partner.

18

the year.

 

Net revenues during the fiscal 2024 firstsecond quarter were also negatively impacted from increased discounts. Discounts as a percentage of gross sales increased from 26.8%29.6% in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 2023 to 29.9%32.6% in the firstsecond quarter of this year, resulting in less net revenues ofor approximately $0.5$0.4 million. The increased discounts resulted from a change in order mix, with increased book fair order types that offer higher discounts impacting net revenues by $0.4$0.2 million, along with additional product discounts offered to spur sales during the quarter impacting net revenues by $0.1$0.2 million. The order mix change resulted from an increase in book fair orders over web sales, which offer higher discounts and lower sales commissions to Brand Partners.

 

Gross margin decreased $5.5$4.7 million, or 39.6%43.5%, to $8.4$6.1 million during the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $13.9$10.8 million during the same period a year ago. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues for the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, decreased to 66.7%65.4%, compared to 69.2%68.1% the same period a year ago, representing a decrease of approximately $0.3 million.ago. The decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues wasis primarily attributed to increased discounts between the periodschange in order mix and additional shipping promotions.promotional discounts previously mentioned, as well as reduced purchasing volume discounts/rebates.

23

 

PaperPie operating expenses consistsconsist of operating and selling expenses, sales commissions and general and administrative expenses. Operating and selling expenses primarily consistsconsist of freight expenses and materials and supplies. Sales commissions include amounts paid to Brand Partnersbrand partners for new sales and promotions. These operating expenses are directly tied to the sales volumes of the PaperPie segment. General and administrative expenses include payroll, outside services, inventory reserves and other expenses directly associated with the segment.

 

Total operating expenses decreased $3.8$3.4 million, or 36.2%37.4%, to $6.7$5.7 million during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $10.5$9.1 million reported in the same quarter a year ago. Operating and selling expenses decreased $1.1$1.4 million, or 36.7%46.7%, to $1.9$1.6 million during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $3.0 million reported in the same quarter a year ago, primarily due toresulting from fewer sales and shipments leading to a decrease in outbound freight totaling approximately $1.4 million. This expense reduction was partially offset by$1.2 million, along with a $0.3$0.1 million increasedecrease in consultantbrand partner incentive trip accruals associated with promotions to bolster sales.expenses and $0.1 million decrease in various other expenses. Sales commissions decreased $2.6$2.0 million, or 38.8%36.4%, to $4.1$3.5 million during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $6.7$5.5 million reported in the same quarter a year ago, due primarily to the decrease in net revenues. Sales commissions asrevenues totaling approximately $2.3 million, offset by a percentage of net revenues decreased from 33.7% to 32.7% between periods, primarily due to theone-time increase in book fair orderscommission bonuses of $0.3 million, which resulted from a bonus promotion run over web sale orders, which earn less sales commissions overall.the summer. General and administrative expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 12.5%14.3%, to $0.7$0.6 million during the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $0.8$0.7 million during the same period a year ago, due primarily to $0.2 million of reduced bank fees from fewerdriven by a reduction in credit card transactionstransaction fees resulting from the decrease in sales during the quarter ended August 31, 2023. General and administrative expenses include payroll, outside services, inventory reserves and other expenses directly associated with reduced sales, offset by a $0.1 million increase in other various costs.the PaperPie segment.

 

Operating income forof the PaperPie segment decreased $1.6$1.3 million, or 48.5%76.5% to $1.7$0.4 million during the three months ended MayAugust 31, 2023, when compared to $3.3$1.7 million reported in the same quarter a year ago. Operating income of the PaperPie division as a percentage of net revenues for the three months ended August 31, 2023 was 3.9%, compared to 10.7% for the three months ended August 31, 2022. Operating income for the PaperPie division decreased primarily from reduced sales; along with additional product discounts, transportationpromotional discounts and incentive trip pointscommission bonus promotions offered to spur sales.

PaperPie Operating Results for the Six Months Ended August 31, 2023

PaperPie net revenues decreased $14.0 million, or 39.0%, to $21.9 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, compared to $35.9 million from the same period a year ago. The average number of active brand partners in the six-month period ended August 31, 2023 was 20,600, a decrease of 8,900, or 30.2%, from 29,500 selling in same period a year ago. Recruiting and maintaining brand partners has been negatively impacted by several factors including record inflation, our new distribution agreement with Usborne and the rebranding of the division in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023. Inflation was most evident in increased food and fuel prices, which impacts the disposable income of our target customer base, which is families with small children. Sales during the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2024 continued to be negatively impacted by continuing inflationary pressures and we expect this to continue through the rest of fiscal year 2024, as these pressures persist. Historically, when we have experienced these difficult inflationary times, our active brand partner numbers have been positively impacted as more families look for non-traditional income streams to offset rising costs of living.

Gross margin decreased $10.2 million, or 41.3%, to $14.5 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $24.7 million during the same period a year ago, due primarily to a decrease in net revenues. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues decreased to 66.2% for the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, when compared to 68.7% for the same period a year ago. The decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net revenues was primarily attributed to increased discounts and promotions between the periods along with additional shipping promotions offered in the current year.

Total operating expenses decreased $7.2 million, or 36.5%, to $12.5 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, from $19.7 million for the same period a year ago. Operating and selling expenses decreased $2.4 million, or 40.7%, to $3.5 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $5.9 million reported in the same period a year ago, primarily due to a decrease in shipping costs associated with the decrease in volume of orders shipped totaling approximately $2.5 million partially offset by a $0.1 million increase in brand partner incentive trip expenses. Sales commissions decreased $4.6 million, or 37.7%, to $7.6 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $12.2 million reported in the same period a year ago, primarily due to the decrease in net revenues. General and administrative expenses decreased $0.1 million, or 6.7%, to $1.4 million, from $1.5 million recognized during the same period last year, due primarily to decreased credit card transaction fees associated with decreased sales volumes totaling $0.3 million, which was offset by a $0.1 million increase in payroll expenses and a $0.1 million increase in depreciation expense.

Operating income of the fiscal first quarterPaperPie segment decreased $3.0 million, or 60.0%, to $2.0 million during the six months ended August 31, 2023, when compared to $5.0 million reported in the same period last year. Operating income of the PaperPie division as a percentage of net revenues for the six months ended August 31, 2023 also benefitedwas 9.2%, compared to 14.0% for the six months ended August 31, 2022. Operating income for the PaperPie division decreased primarily from approximately $0.1 millionreduced sales; along with additional promotional discounts and commission bonus promotions offered to spur sales.

24

 

Publishing Operating Results for the Three and Six Months Ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

The following table summarizes the operating results of the Publishing segment:

 

  

Three Months Ended

May 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

 

Gross sales

 $4,073,300  $6,607,100 

Less discounts and allowances

  (2,134,300

)

  (3,465,700

)

Transportation revenue

  1,800   2,700 

Net revenues

  1,940,800   3,144,100 
         

Cost of goods sold

  964,100   1,689,500 

Gross margin

  976,700   1,454,600 
         

Total operating expenses

  516,700   704,800 
         

Operating income

 $460,000  $749,800 

19

  

Three Months Ended

August 31,

  

Six Months Ended

August 31,

 
  

2023

  

2022

  

2023

  

2022

 

Gross sales

 $2,597,900  $7,358,000  $6,671,200  $13,965,100 

Less discounts and allowances

  (1,351,900

)

  (3,874,400

)

  (3,486,200

)

  (7,340,100

)

Transportation revenue

  13,100   2,500   14,900   5,200 

Net revenues

  1,259,100   3,486,100   3,199,900   6,630,200 
                 

Cost of goods sold

  453,400   1,854,200   1,417,500   3,543,800 

Gross margin

  805,700   1,631,900   1,782,400   3,086,400 
                 

Total operating expenses

  369,100   816,000   885,800   1,520,800 
                 

Operating income

 $436,600  $815,900  $896,600  $1,565,600 

 

Publishing Operating Results for the Three Months Ended MayAugust 31, 2023

 

Our Publishing division’s net revenues decreased $1.2$2.2 million, or 38.7%62.9%, to $1.9$1.3 million during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, from $3.1$3.5 million reported in the same period a year ago primarily due to the stoppage of distribution of Usborne products between the periods, which impacted net sales by approximately $1.3$2.8 million, partially offset by an increase in Kane Miller and Learning Wrap-Ups sales of $0.4 million and new sales of SmartLab Toys totaling approximately $0.2 million. During fiscal 2023, we entered into a new distribution agreement with Usborne. Under the terms in our new distribution agreement, the Company no longer has the right to distribute Usborne’s products to retail customers after November 15, 2022, at which time Usborne was expected to use a different distributor to supply retail accounts with their products. The November 15, 2022 transition date, at Usborne’s request, was extended until April 30, 2023. Net revenuesinto the first quarter of fiscal 2024. Gross sales attributed to Usborne products sold within the Publishing division accounted for 67.3%84.5%, or $1.3$6.2 million during the quarter ended May 31, 2023, and 82.5%, or $2.6 million during the quarter ended MayAugust 31, 2022.

 

Gross margin decreased $0.5$0.8 million, or 33.3%50.0%, to $1.0$0.8 million during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, from $1.5$1.6 million reported in the same quarter a year ago, primarily due to the decrease in net revenues. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues increased to 50.3%64.0% during the three-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, from 46.3%46.8% reported in the same quarter a year ago. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues changed primarily from an increase in Learning Wrap-Ups sales, which carry a better margin.

Total operating expenses of the Publishing segment decreased $0.4 million, or 50.0%, to $0.4 million, from $0.8 million, during the three-month periods ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. This change was due to a $0.4 million decrease in freight expenses caused by lower sales.

Operating income of the Publishing division decreased $0.4 million or 50.0% to $0.4 million during the three-month period ended August 31, 2023, from $0.8 million for the three-month period ended August 31, 2022, respectively. The decrease in operating income was primarily associated with the decline in revenues associated with the new distribution agreement, which required the stoppage of Usborne products sold through this division.

Publishing Operating Results for the Six Months Ended August 31, 2023

Our Publishing division’s net revenues decreased by $3.4 million, or 51.5%, to $3.2 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, from $6.6 million reported in the same period a year ago primarily due to the stoppage of distribution of Usborne products between the periods, which impacted net sales by approximately $4.1 million, partially offset by an increase in Kane Miller and Learning Wrap-Ups sales of $0.3 million and new sales of SmartLab Toys totaling approximately $0.4 million.

Gross margin decreased $1.3 million, or 41.9%, to $1.8 million during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, from $3.1 million reported in the same period a year ago. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues increased to 55.7%, during the six-month period ended August 31, 2023, from 46.6% reported in the same period a year ago. Gross margin as a percentage of net revenues changed primarily from changes in the mix of products sold between EDC-owned brands and Usborne, with Kane Miller, SmartLab Toys and Learning Wrap-Ups products carrying a better margin on average.

 

25

Total operating expenses of the Publishing segment decreased $0.2$0.6 million, or 28.6%40.0%, to $0.5 million, from $0.7$0.9 million during the three-month periodssix-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023, and 2022, respectively.from $1.5 million reported in the same period a year ago. This change was due to a $0.1$0.4 million decrease in freight expenses and a $0.1$0.2 million decrease in sales commissions due to decreased overall sales.sales and the restructuring of the Company’s internal sales department.

 

Operating income of the Publishing divisionsegment decreased $0.2$0.7 million, or 28.6%43.8%, to $0.5$0.9 million during the three-monthsix-month period ended MayAugust 31, 2023 from $0.7when compared to $1.6 million forreported in the three-monthsame period ended May 31, 2022, respectively.a year ago, due primarily to the decrease in sales and operating expenses. The decrease in operating income was primarily associated with the decline in revenues associated with the new distribution agreement, which required the stoppage of Usborne products sold throughproduct sales in this division.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

EDC has a history of profitability and positive cash flow. We typically fund our operations from the cash we generate. During periods of loss, like the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, EDC will continue to reduce purchases and sell through inventory to generate cash flows. The Company expects to reduce current excess inventory levels and use the cash proceeds to pay down the line of credit and portions of the term debt. Available cash has historically been used to pay down outstanding bank loan balances, for capital expenditures, to pay dividends and to acquire treasury stock. We utilize a bank credit facility and other term loan borrowings to meet our short-term cash needs, as well as fund capital expenditures when necessary. As of the end of the firstsecond fiscal quarter of 2024, our revolving bank credit facility loan balance was $11.0$9.7 million with $3.0$0.8 million in available capacity.

 

Available cash has historically been used to pay down outstanding bank loan balances, for capital expenditures, to pay dividends and to acquire treasury stock. We have $1.1 million of restricted cash held by our third-party credit card payment processor as of the end of our second fiscal quarter of 2024. The cash held in reserve was increased in September 2023 to approximately $1.5 million and is scheduled to increase again in October 2023 to approximately $2.0 million. The Company has requested the cash held in reserve be reduced and the cash be released back to the Company. PayPal has scheduled its next financial review in mid-October. The Company has engaged an alternate credit card processor to move to during the third quarter of fiscal 2024.

During the first threesix months of fiscal year 2024, we experienced cash inflows from operations of $1,177,100.$4,700,300. These cash inflows resulted from:

 

●net lossearnings of $872,800$188,900, including the receipt of the employee retention tax credit of $3,808,700

 

Adjusted for:

 

●depreciation and amortization expense of $683,600$1,366,000

●share-based compensation expense, net of $96,200$175,800

●provision for inventory allowance of $51,200

Offset by:$105,400

●deferred income taxes of $329,700$39,100

●gain on sale of assets of $46,500

 

Positively impacted by:

 

●decrease in inventories, net of $1,430,400$1,829,300

●increase in accounts payable of $767,100

●increase in deferred revenues of $367,800$1,113,200

●decrease in accounts receivable of $217,800$916,100

●decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets of $128,000$221,600

20

$86,900

 

Negatively impacted by:

 

●decrease in accrued salaries and commissions, and other liabilities of $1,362,500$1,280,400

 

Cash used in investing activities was $300,900$470,500 for capital expenditures, consisting of $288,100$510,200 in software upgrades to our proprietary systems that our PaperPie Brand Partnersbrand partners use to monitor their business and place customer orders and $12,800$36,000 of other various purchases.purchases offset by the proceeds from the sale of assets of $75,700.

 

Cash used in financing activities was $689,200,$2,375,300, which was comprised of net borrowingspayments on the line of credit of $324,700 offset by$911,400, payments on term debt of $900,000 and cash paid in treasury stock transactions of $563,900 and payments on term debt$563,900.

26

 

We continue to expect the cash generated from our operations, specifically from the reduction of excess inventory, and cash available through our line of credit with our Lender will provide us with the liquidity we need to support ongoing operations. Cash generated from operations will be used to purchase inventory in order to expand our product offerings and to pay down existing debt.

 

On August 9, 2022, the Company repaid in full all outstanding indebtedness and terminated all commitments and obligations under its Amended and Restated Loan Agreement dated February 15, 2021 (as amended), between the Company and MidFirst Bank and executed a new Credit Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) with BOKF, NA (“Bank of Oklahoma” or the “Lender”). The Loan Agreement established a fixed rate term loan in the principal amount of $15,000,000 (the “Fixed Rate Term Loan”), a floating rate term loan in the principal amount of $21,000,000 (the “Floating Rate Term Loan”; together with the Fixed Rate Term Loan, collectively, the “Term Loans”), and a revolving promissory note in the principal amount up to $15,000,000 (the “Revolving Loan” or “Line of Credit”).

 

On December 22, 2022, the Company executed the First Amendment to our Loan Agreement with the Lender. This amendment clarified the definition of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio to exclude dividends paid prior to November 30, 2022, and placed restrictions on acquisitions and cash dividends.

 

On May 10, 2023, the Company executed the Second Amendment to our Loan Agreement with the Lender. This amendment waived the fixed charge ratio default which occurred on February 28, 2023 and amended the financial covenant to not require the fixed charge ratio to be measured at May 31, 2023. The Second Amendment also added a cumulative maximum level of fiscal year to date inventory purchases through the expiration of the Revolving Loan Agreement, increased the borrowing rate on the Company’s Revolving Loan to Term SOFR Rate plus 3.5%, required certain swap agreement be executed within 30 days of the amendment, reduced the revolving commitment from $15,000,000 to $14,000,000, effective May 10, 2023, and further reduced the revolving commitment to $13,500,000, effective July 15, 2023, among other items.

 

On June 6, 2023, pursuant to its interest rate risk and risk management strategy, the Company entered into a swap transaction (the “Swap Transaction”) with the Lender, which converts a portion of the original $21,000,000 Floating Rate Term Loan from a floating interest rate to a fixed interest rate for the next two years. The Swap Transaction has a notional amount of $18,000,000 through fiscal quarter ending May 31, 2024, and then resets to $13,000,000 through May 30, 2025, while continuing to mirror the amortizing balance of the Floating Rate Term Loan. Under the terms of this agreement, the Company, in effect, has exchanged the floating interest rate of 30-Day Term SOFR Rate at the trade date of June 5, 2023, to a fixed rate of 4.73%. The Swap Transaction commenced on June 7, 2023, with a termination date of May 30, 2025.

On August 9, 2023, the Company executed the Third Amendment along with a Revised Credit Agreement (“Revised Loan Agreement”) with the Lender. This amendment extended the Revolving Loan maturity date to January 31, 2024 and introduced a stepdown to the Revolving Commitment from $13,500,000, through August 30, 2023; to $10,500,000 through October 30, 2023; to $9,000,000 through November 29, 2023; to $5,000,000 through December 30, 2023; to $4,500,000 through January 30, 2024; and to $4,000,000 on January 31, 2024. The amendment restricts the Company from entering into any new purchase orders and use its best efforts to cancel existing purchase orders. It also required the Company to list its real estate property located at 10302 East 55th Place, Tulsa, Oklahoma, for sale with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender on or before August 18, 2023, among other items. Contingent upon the occurrence of an Event of Default in the agreement, the Company shall within 15 days list its real estate property for sale located at 5402 South 122nd Ave., Tulsa, Oklahoma (“Hilti Complex), with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender. The Third Amendment also increased the borrowing rate on the Revolving Loan to 30-Day Term SOFR Rate + 4.50%, or 9.81% at August 31, 2023. The Revised Loan Agreement was updated for the changes in the Third Amendment as well as removed the fixed charge ratio and the ability for borrowings to be accelerated before the January 31, 2024 Revolving Loan maturity date.

Available credit under the current $14,000,000$10,500,000 revolving line of credit with the Company’s Lender was approximately $3,040,800$776,900 at MayAugust 31, 2023.

 

Features of the Revised Loan Agreement (as amended) at MayAugust 31, 2023 include:

 

 

(i)

Two Term LoansLoan on 20-year amortization with 5-year maturity date of August 9, 2027

 

(ii)

Revolving Loan maturity date of August 9, 2023

(iii)

$15 Million Fixed Rate Term Loan bears interest at a fixed rate per annum equal to 4.26%

 

(iv)(iii)

$21 Million Floating Rate Term Loan bears interest at a rate per annum equal to Term SOFR Rate + 1.75% (effective rate was 6.79%7.06% at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

(v)(iv)

Stepdown Revolving Loan with maturity date of January 31, 2024. The Revolving Loan bears interest at a rate per annum equal to Term SOFR Rate + 3.50%4.50% (effective rate was 8.54%9.81% at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

(vi)(v)

Revolving Loan allows for Letters of Credit up to $7,500,000 upon bank approval (none were outstanding at MayAugust 31, 2023)

 

27

The

Prior to the Third Amendment, executed on August 9, 2023, the Loan Agreement containscontained provisions that requirerequired the Company to maintain a minimum fixed charge ratio and limits any additional debt with other lenders.ratio. The Company was in violation of the minimum fixed charge ratio covenant as of February 28, 2023, for which the Company obtained a written waiver of compliance from the Lender and iswas not required to measure the fixed charge ratio as of May 31, 2023. The Company does not expectConcurrent with the execution of the Third Amendment to meetthe Loan Agreement, the Loan Agreement was modified to incorporate the changes outlined in the Third Amendment and the fixed charge ratio outlined incovenant was removed, as well as the amended Loan Agreement, during fiscal year 2024. Under the terms of the amended Loan Agreement, not meeting this ratio would represent an Event of Default. Should an Event of Default occur, the Lender will have theLender’s right to accelerate the maturities of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan. As an Event of Default is expected, and no waiver of the Event of Default is guaranteedLoan due to be received by the Lender, the long-term maturities of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Float Rate Term Loan have been reclassified as current liabilities.

21

While the Company received a waiver for the fixed charge ratio default that occurred on February 28, 2023, the borrowing and purchasing capacity was restricted and management's forecast indicated thatcovenant. Should the Company willfail to meet any of the remaining terms outlined in the Revised Credit Agreement or fail to meet the stepdown requirements of the Revolving Loan, the Company shall within 15 days list its real estate property for sale located at 5402 South 122nd Ave., Tulsa, Oklahoma (“Hilti Complex”), with a licensed commercial real estate broker satisfactory to the Lender. Proceeds from the sale of the property would be out of compliance in future periods. An Event of Default is expected associatedused to pay off all the borrowings with the amended Loan Agreement, there is no guaranty thatLender. A third-party appraisal was completed on the Event of Default will be waived by the Lender, and the bank may choose to accelerate the maturitiesHilti Complex, consisting of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan. These conditions, among others400,000 square feet building complex on approximately 40 acres, along with approximately 15 acres of adjacent unused land, in the aggregate, raise substantial doubt over the Company's ability to continue asJuly of 2022 with a going concern. Management has plans to enter into a new financing agreement by August 9, 2023, with the Lender, which will allow it to operate without default and reclassify the non-current portionsmarket value of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan as long-term liabilities. In addition, management’s plans include reducing inventory and related borrowing costs, building the active PaperPie Brand Partners to pre-pandemic levels, as the distraction and costs associated with the rebrand that occurred in fiscal year 2023 are expected to have a lesser impact in the future, reducing expenses due to lower revenue volumes and receipt of the contingent Employee Retention Credit. Management expects these plans are probable of being achieved to alleviate the substantial doubt about continuing as a going concern and expects to generate sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations as they become due over the next twelve months.$41,200,000.

 

The following table reflects aggregate currentfuture scheduled maturities of termlong-term debt excluding the Revolving Loan, during the currentnext five fiscal yearyears as follows:

 

Year ending February 29,

 

 

 

 

Years ending February 28 (29),

    

2024

 

$

34,650,000

 

 $900,000 

2025

  1,800,000 

2026

  1,800,000 

2027

  1,800,000 

2028

  27,900,000 

Total

 $34,200,000 

 

Risks and Uncertainties

 

In accordance with ASU No. 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40), the Company has evaluated whether there are conditions and events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the condensed financial statements are issued.

 

As an Event of Default is expected associated with the Loan Agreement, and there is no guaranty that the Event of Default will be waived by BOKF, NA, there is sufficient uncertainty that, should the Lender choose to accelerate the maturitiesThe short-term duration of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate TermRevolving Loan, the Company coulduncertainty of the Company’s ability to meet the stepdown requirements outlined in the Third Amendment and the ability to renew the line on January 31, 2024, raise substantial doubt over the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Management has plans that should it violate the terms of the Third Amendment or Revised Credit Agreement, it will sell the Hilti Complex and pay off the Term Loans and Revolving Loan. The proceeds from a sale are expected to enter into a new financing agreement by August 9, 2023, with BOKF, NA or another lender,generate sufficient cashflow to allow the Company to continue operations without borrowing funds from their bank. In addition, management’s plans include reducing inventory which will allow itgenerate free cashflows and building the active PaperPie brand partners to operate without defaultpre-pandemic levels. Although there is no guarantee these plans will be successful, management believes these plans, if achieved, should alleviate the substantial doubt about continuing as a going concern and reclassifygenerate sufficient liquidity to meet our obligations as they become due over the non-current portions of the Fixed Rate Term Loan and Floating Rate Term Loan as long-term liabilities.next twelve months.

22

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States(GAAP). The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to our valuation of inventory, allowance for uncollectible accounts receivable, allowance for sales returns, long-lived assets and deferred income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.

 

Actual results may materially differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Historically, however, actual results have not differed materially from those determined using required estimates. Our significant accounting policies are described in the notes accompanying the financial statements included elsewhere in this report and in our audited financial statements as of and for the year ended February 28, 2023, included in our Form 10-K. However, we consider the following accounting policies to be more significantly dependent on the use of estimates and assumptions.

 

28

Revenue Recognition

 

Sales associated with product orders are recognized and recorded when products are shipped. Products are shipped FOB-Shipping Point. PaperPie’s sales are generally paid at the time the product is ordered. Sales which have been paid for but not shipped are classified as deferred revenue on the balance sheet. Sales associated with consignment inventory are recognized when reported and payment associated with the sale has been remitted. Transportation revenue represents the amount billed to the customer for shipping the product and is recorded when the product is shipped.

 

Estimated allowances for sales returns are recorded as sales are recognized. Management uses a moving average calculation to estimate the allowance for sales returns. We are not responsible for a product damaged in transit. Damaged returns are primarily received from the retail customers of our Publishing division. This damage occurs in the stores, not in shipping to the stores, and we typically do not offer credit for damaged returns. It is industry practice to accept non-damaged returns from retail customers. Management has estimated and included a reserve for sales returns of $0.2 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023.

 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

We maintain an allowance for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments and a reserve for vendor share markdowns, when applicable (collectively “allowance for doubtful accounts”). An estimate of uncollectible amounts is made by management based upon historical bad debts, current customer receivable balances, age of customer receivable balances, customers’ financial conditions and current economic trends. Management has estimated and included an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.1 million and $0.2 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively.

 

Inventory

 

Our inventory contains approximately 2,000 titles, each with different rates of sale depending upon the nature and popularity of the title. Almost all of our product line is saleable as the products are not topical in nature and remain current in content today as well as in the future. Most of our products are printed in China, Europe, Singapore, India, Malaysia and Dubai typically resulting in a four to eight-month lead-time to have a title printed and delivered to us.

 

Certain inventory is maintained in a noncurrent classification. Management continually estimates and calculates the amount of noncurrent inventory. Noncurrent inventory arises due to occasional purchases of titles in quantities in excess of what will be sold within the normal operating cycle, due to the minimum order requirements of our suppliers. Noncurrent inventory is estimated by management using an anticipated turnover ratio by title, based primarily on historical trends and sales forecasts. Inventory in excess of 2½ years of anticipated sales is classified as noncurrent inventory. These inventory quantities have additional exposure for storage damages and related issues, and therefore have higher obsolescence reserves. Noncurrent inventory balances prior to valuation allowances were $6.4$8.7 million and $5.1 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively. Noncurrent inventory valuation allowances were $0.5 million and $0.4 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively.

23

 

Our principal supplier, based in England, generally requires a minimum reorder of 6,500 or more of a title in order to get a solo print run. Smaller orders would require a shared print run with the supplier’s other customers, which can result in lengthy delays to receivereceiving the ordered title. Anticipating customer preferences and purchasing habits requires historical analysis of similar titles in the same series. We then place the initial order or reorder based upon this analysis. These factors and historical analysis have led our management to determine that 2½ years represents a reasonable estimate of the normal operating cycle for our products.

 

Brand Partnerspartners that meet certain eligibility requirements may request and receive inventory on consignment. We believe allowing our Brand Partnersbrand partners to have consignment inventory greatly increases their ability to be successful in making effective presentations at home shows, book fairs and other events; in summary, having consignment inventory leads to additional sales opportunities. Approximately 9.0%10.0% of our active Brand Partnersbrand partners have maintained consignment inventory at the end of the firstsecond quarter of fiscal year 2024. Consignment inventory is stated at cost, less an estimated reserve for consignment inventory that is not expected to be sold or returned to the Company. The total cost of inventory on consignment with Brand Partnersbrand partners was $1.4$1.6 million and $1.5 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively.

 

Inventories are presented net of a valuation allowance, which includes reserves for inventory obsolescence and reserves for consigned inventory that is not expected to be sold or returned to the Company. Management estimates the inventory obsolescence allowance for both current and noncurrent inventory, which is based on management’s identification of slow-moving inventory. Management has estimated a valuation allowance for both current and noncurrent inventory, including the reserve for consigned inventory, of $1.0$1.1 million and $0.9 million as of MayAugust 31, 2023, and February 28, 2023, respectively.

29

 

Share-Based Compensation

 

We account for share-based compensation whereby share-based payment transactions with employees, such as stock options and restricted stock, are measured at estimated fair value at the date of grant. For awards subject to service conditions, compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period on a straight-line basis. Awards subject to performance conditions are attributed separately for each vesting tranche of the award and are recognized ratably from the service inception date to the vesting date for each tranche. Forfeitures are recognized when they occur. Any cash dividends declared after the restricted stock award is issued, but before the vesting period is completed, will be reinvested in Company shares at the opening trading price on the dividend payment date. Shares purchased with cash dividends will also retain the same restrictions until the completion of the original vesting period associated with the awarded shares.

 

The restricted share awards under the 2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2019 LTI Plan”) and 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2022 LTI Plan”) contain both service and performance conditions. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense only for the portion of the restricted share awards that are considered probable of vesting. Shares are considered granted, and the service inception date begins, when a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions between the Company and the employees has been established. The fair value of these awards is determined based on the closing price of the shares on the grant date. The probability of restricted share awards granted with future performance conditions is evaluated at each reporting period and compensation expense is adjusted based on the probability assessment.

 

During the first threesix months of fiscal year 2024, the Company recognized $0.1$0.2 million of compensation expense associated with the shares granted.

 

24
30

 

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. This evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and our Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer).

 

Based on that evaluation, these officers concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were designed and were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to them, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported in accordance with the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms. It should be noted that the design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

During the firstsecond quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report on Form 10-Q, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

2531

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

We are not a party to any material legal proceedings.Not applicable.

 

Item 1A. RISK FACTORS

 

Not required by smaller reporting company.

 

Item 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

Period

 

Total # of Shares

Purchased

  

Average Price

Paid per Share

  

Total # of Shares

Purchased as

Part of Publicly Announced Plan (1)

  

Maximum # of Shares that may

be Repurchased under the Plan (1)

 
                 

March 1 - 31, 2023

  138,201  $4.08   138,201   376,393 

April 1 - 30, 2023

  -   -   -   376,393 

May 1 - 31, 2023

  -   -   -   376,393 

Total

  138,201  $4.08   138,201     

Period

Total # of Shares

Purchased

Average Price

Paid per Share

Total # of Shares

Purchased as

Part of Publicly Announced Plan (1)

Maximum # of Shares that may

be Repurchased under the Plan (1)

June 1 - 30, 2023

-$--376,393

July 1 - 31, 2023

---376,393

August 1 - 31, 2023

---376,393

Total

-$--

 

(1)

On February 4, 2019, the Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase plan, replacing the former 2008 stock repurchase plan. The maximum number of shares which can be purchased under the new plan is 800,000. The amounts in the table reflect the remaining number of shares available to be repurchased. This plan has no expiration date.

 

Item 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

None.

 

Item 5. OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

2632

 

Item 6. EXHIBITS

 

3.1*

 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated April 26, 1968 and Certificate of Amendment thereto dated June 21, 1968 are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1 to Registration Statement on Form 10-K (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.2*

 

Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated August 27, 1977 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 20.1 to Form 10-K for fiscal year ended February 28, 1981 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.3*

 

By-Laws, as amended, are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 20.2. to Form 10-K for fiscal year ended February 28, 1981 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.4*

 

Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated November 17, 1986 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to Form 10-K for fiscal year ended February 28, 1987 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.5

 

Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated March 22, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to Form 10-K for fiscal year ended February 28, 1997 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.6

 

Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated July 15, 2002 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to Form 10-K dated February 28, 2003 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

3.7

 

Certificate of Amendment of Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated August 15, 2018 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K dated August 21, 2018 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

10.1

 

Usborne Distribution Agreement dated May 16, 2022 by and between the Company and Usborne Publishing Limited, London, England is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to form 10-Q dated May 31, 2022 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

 

10.2

 

Credit Agreement (as amended) dated August 9, 20022022 by and between the Company and BOKF, NA, Tulsa, OK is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.0110.02 to form 8-K dated August 11, 20229, 2023 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

10.3

 

First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated December 22, 2022 by and between the Company and BOKF, NA, Tulsa, OK. Is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q dated November 30, 2022 (File No. 0-04957).

 

10.4

 

Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated May 10, 2023 by and between the Company and BOKF, NA, Tulsa, OK. IsOK is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to Form 10-K dated February 28, 2023 (File No. 0-04957).

 

 

10.5

Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated August 9, 2023 by and between the Company and BOKF, NA, Tulsa, OK is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.01 to Form 8-K dated August 17, 2023 (File No. 0-04957).

 

31.1**

 

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer of Educational Development Corporation pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

31.2**

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary of Educational Development Corporation pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.1**

 

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

101.INS

 

Inline XBRL Instance Document

 

 

 

101.SCH

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

 

 

 

101.CAL

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase

 

 

 

101.DEF

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

 

 

 

101.LAB

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase

 

 

 

101.PRE

 

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

 

 

 

104

 

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

* Paper Filed

** Filed Herewith

 

2733

 

SIGNATURES

 

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.

 

 

 

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

(Registrant)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: July 13,October 16, 2023

By

/s/ Craig M. White                                               

 

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

2834
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